Diagonal lines

How we read images is naturally important to the ‘rules’ of composition, our gaze follows lines conforming to patterns we can find within the frame.  In western cultures we tend to unconsciously view images starting with the upper left corner. Therefore a diagonal line running from upper left to bottom right is in consensus to how we would unconsciously start to view an image.  If a line runs in the inverted direction from upper right to bottom left this is perceived as more challenging for the eye, creating a dynamic feeling and sense of movement within the frame.  This has implications for the photographer when choosing the right composition.  Whether to encourage dynamism within a frame or quieten down an overly busy image.