What role does negative space serve in photography?

Negative space plays a crucial role in photography by enhancing and providing breathing room for the main subject. This space, which is the area surrounding and between the subjects in an image, allows the viewer’s eye to focus on the main subject. By utilizing negative space effectively, photographers can create a sense of balance and composition that directs attention exactly where it's needed.

When there is a significant amount of negative space around the subject, it helps to emphasize that subject, making it stand out more prominently. This technique can evoke specific feelings or emotions in the viewer, such as loneliness, isolation, or serenity, depending on how the space is used in relation to the subject. Utilizing negative space effectively can lead to more compelling and visually interesting images, enhancing the overall impact of the photograph.