This work investigates the connection among optical aspects of photographic composition and the quality, perception and interpretation of the level of realism of images. Therefore, to investigate this connection, an experiment was carried out in two steps: The first step consisted of performing analyzes of the optical or photographic contrasts of previously selected images. The second step was the elaboration of a questionnaire with 19 images selected in the first step, aiming to collect data about the perception and opinion of the users. Finally, the objective data from the first step was crossed with the subjective data from the second. The conclusion indicates evidence of the connection or convergence between images that obey the principles of photographic composition that are perceived as having better realism by the users. It is plausible to consider the importance of photo-graphic theory to image design for the users perceive the images as more realistic.