When an image is created is will usually have a purpose or will be trying to convey a message in some form or other. The creator will therefore probably want to draw the viewer to a specific point in the image, This is known as the focal point. There are a several techniques to achieve this.

Emphasis by contrast.

Looking to the image above we see some simple lines, some horizontal lines and a single vertical line. If most of the elements are horizontal then the vertical element will stand out and the viewers’ eye will be drawn to that point.

 Emphasis by shape.

From the image above we can see that the regular shape stands out from the irregular shape. All lines are the same weight and the same colour.

Emphasis by colour.

Above we see an image that has been de-saturated and a single person has been left with a strong red. The eye tends to be drawn to this image.

Emphasis by isolation

If most of the elements in an image are grouped close together then the one that is on its own will stand out as a focal point.

Emphasis by placement.

The above image is a painting by John Turnbull. The Surrender of Lord Cornwallis which depicted the surrender of the British at Yorktown. The main subject has been placed in the centre of the picture which is generally the usual focal point for the eye. However this is further emphasised by having all the people (and animals) in the image looking towards this point.