Composition Convey the Story Behind the Photo
Every work of art, the experts say, must tell a story. In
photography, it is the photo's composition that allows the artist or
photographer to express emotions and messages through the images that he
or she shoots.
Composition is basically a matter of one's personal taste for art and
eye for beauty. Though there is actually no right or wrong composition
in photography, an effective composition is something that clearly
communicates to the viewer the message or emotion that the photographer
wants to put across.
Composition is a blend of all the elements that makes a photograph worth
looking, such as focus, lighting, texture, pattern, symmetry, depth of
field, lines and curves, framing, perspective, space, balance, and tone.
The best way to create texture in black and white photography is a play
with the lighting. It is ideal to shoot in low light because they create
soft shadows that result to dramatic textures in the final image.
At times, the depth of field alone is enough to convey the message of a
photograph. A shallow depth of field, for instance, can isolate a
subject from the foreground and exude a nostalgic feeling.
The right framing is essential to draw the eyes to the main subject of
interest. It can also lend the picture an impression of depth.
Perspective can be a differentiating factor an ordinary photo and a
captivating shot. Try shooting from different angles to create different
points of interests, which will eventually have a big impact on
enhancing the look of your image.
While a picture that bustles with activity is interesting to look at,
certain subjects require a space to breathe. A red heart balloon, for
example, at the side of the picture over a white background will creates
a fresh and simple but elegant look. Experiment by moving capturing
objects up close and giving them enough space to let their uniqueness
shine.
You might have heard of the phrase "negative space." This unwanted space
is usually seen in photos that lacks balance. Most amateur photographers
struggle with creating balance. But the trick there, really, is
counterbalancing some empty spots in the image with some "weight."
Aside from balance, symmetry is very important to achieve a good overall
composition. In photography, we have this rule of the third were the
main point of interest should be located either two thirds from the left
or right, or two thirds from the top or bottom, but never at the center.
This is because the human eye has the naturally tendency to look at a
point two thirds on the page. Symmetry, however, can be avoided
altogether to create an interesting image. But for beginners, it is
advisable to stick to the rule of thirds first and break it later.
Lines and curves can draw the eye deeper into the picture, and can also
make an impressin of movement. These may take the form of rivers, roads,
bridges, branches, fences, and what-have-yous. If you can't see them
right away, look for imaginary ones and shoot from an angle along these
"unseen" lines and curves.
All these elements, if carefully and artistically put together, will
definitely give you the best photos that you've ever taken. |
