Diagonals

Diagonal lines bring a sense of movement and tension to a photograph. Unlike horizontal and vertical lines, which tend to feel stable, diagonals pull our eyes across the frame, sometimes toward a point where two lines intersect. They can also form Golden Triangles, a geometric composition based on the golden ratio (approximately 1.618), the same mathematical proportion associated with the Fibonacci sequence.

1. Unknown model by Bruce Bellas in strong diagonal composition and groin area along horizontal center.

2. Kevin Larson in reclining pose along a clear diagonal.

3. Unknown model posed along a strong diagonal with focus on center of the frame.

3a. Another diagonal variation from corners, sides, top, and bottom. Notice relationships from left shoulder, head, right knee, and left foot to center point in groin. This shot was included in my Sublime post, and I think the diagonal play is part of the reason.

4. Norman Tousley along strong diagonal and Fibonacci or Golden triangles framing lower torso and groin.

5. Bob Delmonteque in vertical symmetry that fits his body within Fibonacci or Golden ratio vertically and diagonals leading to the inguinal crease or what bodybuilders refer to as the Adonis Belt or others might call the cum gutters.

In physique photography, the angles of arms, legs, and torsos can create powerful diagonals that draw our attention to particular parts of the body. And, of course, an excited man can create a diagonal of his own, which can be 'hard' to ignore! Sometimes several lines converge around a central point, almost like a bullseye, creating a hypnotic effect.

6. Andy Markos and Jean Cardin in close-up shot with triangular diagonals and symmetric lines intersecting at a clear radial focal point.

7. Paul Howell and unknown model positioned in a strong diagonal line, rule of thirds, and Fibonacci spiral from lower left to upper right.

8. Paul Howell and unknown model from another perspective with V-shaped diagonals with spread of legs and gluteal creases drawing clear focus to the action at center.

9. Unknown but familiar model with staff by Bruce Bellas showing diagonals describing lines from the sacrum to elbows and framing the glutes in vertical symmetry.

10. Josh Kincaid and unknown modelswith diagonals from hip fold framing action on both front and back.

Please leave thoughts, questions, additions or corrections in the comments. Thank you, bns