MR SIMMONS
A LEVEL
PHOTOGRAPHY //
COMPOSITION
COMPOSITION AND USUSUAL ANGLES.
EXPLORING COMPOSITION WITHIN THE FRAME.
The first time a photographer begins to "edit" their images is not on a computer, but the moment they press the shutter and capture their image. In that moment they have decided what to include in the frame, as well as what to exclude, which can both be just as impactful.
It is not just what you include in your frame, but how you include it, that can alter the viewers perception of what you are presenting them. Photography should present the ordinary world in extraordinary ways.
COMPOSITION EXAMPLES AND TECHNIQUES.
There are many composition techniques that should be considered whenever you pick up your camera. they are designed to create an interesting, balanced and visually structured image, however at times you may need to break these rules depending on what you are trying to achieve in your images. Have a look at the examples below:
Rule of Thirds:
No better place to start than the #1 all-time classic composition technique. The Rule of Thirds is dividing up your image with two horizontal and two vertical lines that intersect, which divides your image into nine boxes of equal size. The lines will intersect at four points and since the viewers’ eyes are naturally drawn to those points, the Rule of Thirds says that you should place your subject or the most important elements of the scene along one of the lines or on one of the points.
In portraits, place one of your subject’s eyes on one of the points or both eyes on one of the horizontal lines. In landscapes, place the horizon along one of the horizontal lines.
Although this is one rule you should be aware of, you should not always follow it as it may be better for your image to be purposefully unbalanced.
Center Your Subject:
The Rule of Thirds is a powerful compositional technique, but sometimes, just placing your subject right in the center of your photo is the perfect spot. Three ideal scenarios for centering your subject:
1. When you’re taking a close-up shot in which your subject occupies most or all of the frame.
2. When there’s nothing in the background to distract from your subject.
3. When you’re specifically looking to present some kind of symmetry.
Look for Triangles:
Triangles have a strong visual impact and you don’t need to photograph literal triangles to achieve this effect. All you need are three visual points that exist in a somewhat triangular formation. The viewer’s imagination will connect the dots and tie all elements of the photograph together! The imagined triangle may extend out beyond the edges of your photo as well, so don’t worry if it’s not completely confined inside the frame.
Consider framing:
Use frames when you want to draw attention to a specific area of your image. Shooting one object through a hole or space in another is a classic way to add interest, balance, and depth to your photos. Frames can be natural, such as overhanging tree branches or rock formations, or they can be man-made objects, such as doorways.
Try to look for unusual frames and avoid cliches like having models hold picture frames. For example, try capturing your model or other subject’s reflection in a puddle or wall mirror.
Look for Symmetry:
Symmetry is the all about finding balance in your image. The most simple type of symmetry is dividing the scene in half either vertically or horizontally where both halves have a very similar structure to them. Unlike other composition techniques, symmetry is based on minimising contrast. To master the art of symmetry, you must consider size, shape, colour, line, and texture as elements to balance.
Look for Leading Lines:
Leading lines literal or implied lines create a path for the viewers’ gaze to follow. They can also come in many different forms. The lines can lead viewers to the subject or off into infinity. They can be straight, curved, or angular. A photograph may have one leading line or it may have a bunch that converge on the subject from different angles. When exploring this composition technique, remember where you want your viewer’s gaze to go, and keep re-composing the frame until the lines lead there.
Don’t simply just find some leading lines and fire off a shot. Try to find the best camera angle to really highlight them for maximum impact.
Add Depth by Including Objects at Different Distances:
Having a point-of-interest in the foreground, the middle ground, and in the far distance is a great technique for adding depth to any composition. The key is that these three sections should have enough defined contrast to be easily distinguishable from one another, otherwise your photo may turn out too messy.
If there is a lot going on in your photograph, include strong lines to lead the viewer’s’ eyes to the main subject. For an even greater sense of perspective, let the objects overlap to clearly show the depth as you go deeper into the photo.
Keep the Background Simple:
There will be countless times where you want to isolate and emphasise a subject while eliminating distractions in the background. It’s common in portrait photography, that the most important characteristics of your subject are lost if the background is too noisy. The most common technique is to simply blur the background (like the image below), but that’s not the only way. Consider things like a cloudless sky (or a completely grey day). Maybe a subtle repeating pattern like a brick wall or open space like a wide open field or parking lot.
Let the Background Show Context:
Sometimes, you don’t want a simple background, but rather one that builds upon your subject to tell an even more vibrant story. You’ll want the action in the background to be visible but also not be so distracting that it overwhelms the subject and spoils the composition. Let the background explain a key part of the overall story the subject doesn’t by itself.
Shoot from an Unusual Vantage Point:
Add interest by shooting from an unexpected place. Consider vantage points that aren’t usually seen, and take viewers on a unique journey. For example, drones are a popular way to gather previously unseen angles. Shooting from some locations may require advance planning, so consider if you’ll need any special tools, permission, or assistance. Just please remember to stay safe and don’t break the law!
Use Repetition to Your Advantage:
An object or shape that repeats can create a dominant pattern. Capitalising on these patterns can create a calm, rhythmic feeling or create complete abstractions with common objects. The more repeating objects you have in your photograph, the more likely you are to capture stunning abstractions and optical illusions.
HOW CAN COMPOSITION AFFECT THE IMAGE'S NARRATIVE?
The composition of an image can impact not only the visual aesthetics of the piece but also its narrative to the viewer. Look at the example below from Walker Evans "The Americans" series and consider how his choice of composition has driven his narrative of racial relationships in early 20th century America.
STUDENT EXAMPLES.
Here are some examples of how past students have approached this topic.
