Emphasis in the visual arts general refers to the area of most importance within the work. Emphasis can be created through frame, vantage point, focal point, as well as many of the elements and principles of design. Emphasis tends to be more general while focal point tends to be more specific.
In music, emphasis can be created through contrasts of the elements, featuring a soloist or small ensemble within the larger group, or through accents. Empahsis within theater productions is often achieved through lighting, but can also be achieved through dialogue, other aspects of the mise en scene, or through movement. In the camera arts emphasis is of great importance as what the camera captures is a limiting experience. Because of this, framing the subject is one of the most significant aspects of photography and film.