When photographers speak of contrast they typically refer to light and dark values. However, at times we like to contrast things such as a plant in the desert where we contrast life and death. We may want to use the contrast of color like when you place one red apple amongst a box of green apples. These contrasts can be powerful in your images. We can use them compositionally too. What do you think of this contrast?

The little tree stands in contrast to the rock landscape behind it. The background seems void of trees. The color of the tree does not appear in the background. Both the background and the tree is catching some nice light. You almost get the feeling that the tree stands against the mountains. This is a really strong composition. The tree is powerful in the foreground, yet the background is also strong; pulling the viewer in.

          I placed the tree in such a way that it stands in contrast to the background mountains while at the same time providing balance. The tree is visually strong and balanced with the rock cliffs on the right. I also made sure that the tree is not intervering with the river down below. The trick with this kind of image is to place objects in such a way that you create contrast without also creating imbalance. We strive to have contrasting elements that balance each other.

          When you are out photographing look for contrasting elements then walk around, examine the available angles and place things to maintain balance. Juxtapositioning elements often works well.