Composistion

Divine Proportion
Rule of thirds


Once a canvas is split into thirds both horizontally and vertically, the crossover points become an area called the "golden mean". This is usually the best spot to place your focal point.

http://design.tutsplus.com/articles/5-fundamental-skills-every-artist-should-master--psd-28054

The 'L'

A frame within a frame that takes the shape of an L

This 'L' picture makes the character's pose as the main 'L' focal point.

The Cross

The cross is made up of two lines, 1 going directly down the middle, and 1 going directly along the middle, (vertically & Horizontally).

http://tomalcockba5.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/li_cross.jpg

Iconic

The main focus of the image is nearly dead centre, mostly each opposite side is similar, sometimes even an exact mirror image.  There should be an equalisation to each side of the image.

http://design.tutsplus.com/articles/5-fundamental-skills-every-artist-should-master--psd-28054