Photography Tangents: Spotting & Solving Visual Tension
 
Help your students sharpen their visual awareness with this focused resource on tangents in photography and art composition! Tangents happen when lines or shapes just barely touch in awkward ways, creating tension or confusion for the viewer. This engaging resource teaches students how to recognize and avoid nine of the most common tangent types using clear examples, icons, and hands-on practice.
 
What’s Included:
Teaching Page (Pg 1)
A detailed explanation of all 9 tangents, including photo examples and icon illustrations for each type.
Reference Page
A clean, labeled icon chart featuring all 9 tangent types—perfect for printing as a student handout or classroom poster.
Student Worksheet + Answer Ke
A matching activity that challenges students to identify tangent types using visuals—great for assessment or review.
9 Tangent Example Pages:
One enlarged photo example per tangent type (9 pages total), ideal for classroom discussion, projection, or print display.
 
Tangent Types Covered: 
Closed Corner
Halved Shape
Fused Edges – Frame
Fused Edges – Shapes
Hidden Edge
Split Apex
Stolen Edge
Antlers
Skimmed Edge
 
Why It Works
This resource gives students the tools to recognize and eliminate visual distractions early in their compositions. With side-by-side icons and photographic examples, they’ll learn to see like an artist—and take stronger, cleaner photographs.