Great article, great photos as well. I learned something in a document design class in college.
I don't know if this applies to photography but I think it might. The instructor listed out the four pillars of good design composition. Contrast, repition, alignment, and positioning. I raised my hand and I asked tentatively, "So this is C. R. A. P.?" She looked at me and then look back at the PowerPoint and then looked back at me and said "Well, I've never thought of that, but yes, I guess it is." I use this all the time if I'm actually creating an image or a poster or something of that nature. I guess it could apply to photography or just making flyers for a lost dog.