>>4338258Funny you should mention that, because before being an artist I'm a professional photographer (who does specialize in photos that involve people) and have been doing photography for 15+ years.
That's not a rule, and it's certainly not the #1 rule, it's an opinion. The rule of thirds is a rule, not cutting people off at the joints is a rule, leaving enough head room is a rule, not blowing out your highlights is a rule and even those can be ignored as needed.
Characters *can* make photos and paintings more interesting, not arguing that, but again that's just a matter of preference. People who enjoy landscape painting and photography not only can enjoy them without people in them, but can sometimes find people to be a distraction.
