Visual Weight

Elements of a design or image have different degrees of "heaviness" in relation to each other. By ensuring that key elements are "heaviest" the viewers attention can be drawn to what is most important. 

The visual weight can be obvious, such as when a large object looks heavier because it takes up more space than smaller ones. However, thins get more complex when different colors and color combinations are introduced. The contrast of the foreground and background, the changes in destiny and complexity, and varying levels of situation also play their part in the relative "heaviness" of each element.

By carefully balancing all of these options, a visual hierarchy, symmetry, balance, and harmony can be developed.