In photography, what does 'composition' refer to?

Composition in photography pertains to the arrangement of elements within a frame. It involves how various components, such as subjects, background, foreground, and other visual elements, are organized to create a coherent and aesthetically pleasing image. Successful composition guides the viewer's eye and enhances the overall impact of the photograph.

Key principles of composition include the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, balance, and symmetry. By effectively using these principles, photographers can draw attention to their main subjects and establish a narrative or emotional tone within their images.

The other choices focus on technical aspects of photography rather than the artistic arrangement. Camera settings, lens types, and shutter speed are crucial for achieving the desired exposure and focus, but they do not directly influence how the elements within the frame relate to one another visually. Hence, while they are important aspects of photography, they do not define composition itself.