Both symmetry and asymmetry can be used throughout the composition, independent of, but contributing to, the final balance. You can have symmetrical shapes in an asymmetrically balanced composition, and vice versa.
Symmetry is generally seen as lovely and harmonious; nevertheless, it can also be seen as stagnant and boring. Asymmetry appears to be more complex and fluid, but it is not thought to be necessarily stunning.
SYMMETRY
There are three main symmetry forms.
Reflection symmetry (or bilateral symmetry) arises as something is reflected along the main axis. It is usually the first thing you worry about when you hear the term “symmetry.” The pole may be in any direction or orientation, but it is mostly vertical or horizontal.
Everything on one side of the compass is repeated on the other. Natural forms that grow or move across the surface of the earth develop reflection symmetry. Examples are the human face and the butterfly.
If the reflection is a perfect mirror image, the symmetry is said to be pure. It will not be perfect much of the time, and each side will have slight variations. It is almost symmetry, and it is more common than pure symmetry.
The symmetry can also exist along several axes at the same time. For example, the left and the right half of the composition could mirror each other, while the top and bottom of the composition could also mirror each other. Snowflakes exhibit reflex symmetry on more than two axes.
Rotary symmetry (or radial symmetry) arises as something rotates about a specific nucleus. It may occur at any angle or frequency, as long as there is a specific hub. Normal types that expand or shift perpendicular to the surface of the earth acquire rotational symmetry. The sunflower petals are an example of this. Rotation without reflection may be used to show motion, speed, or dynamic action. Think about the spinning wheels of a moving car.
Translational symmetry (or crystallographic symmetry) arises when components are replicated at various positions in space. Repeating fence posts is an example of this. Repeat generates a localization symmetry. They may appear in any direction or time, as long as the fundamental orientation remains the same. Natural forms develop translational symmetry by reproduction. You can produce rhythm, rotation, speed and fluid action by translation symmetry.
Symmetrical forms convey balance in and of themselves, but they may seem too stable and too balanced, leading to a lack of interest. Symmetrical forms also lead to passive space, because the negative space is the same all around the form.