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Richard Martin Creating Unique Images - Dividing the Picture Space As you examine any given photograph, regardless of subject matter or style, you may begin to perceive shared edges forming contours. These edges act to visually carve or divide the picture space into various shapes. These configurations are generally defined by contrast between light and dark tones, between areas of different colour, between textures, and so on. Proportion also plays an important role. Proportion is the relation in size of one area in the picture space compared to another. Dividing the frame is essentially a matter of proportion and the possibilities are endless. The key to really successful compositions depends on the photographer’s ability to perceive proportional relationships—understanding how one part relates to another and the relationship of individual parts to the whole composition. Look at the accompanying photograph; notice how areas of contrasting colours divide the picture space; and how their relationship to each other creates balance in the frame. Also examine the proportions of picture space occupied by the buildings relative to that occupied by the landscape. Reducing the size of the buildings in relation to the rest of the picture space allows them to play a supporting role in the design, instead of competing with the main theme—the Tuscan landscape. Decisions about composition require judgment on the part of the photographer and cannot be arrived at through rules or formulas. Join Richard and eleven (11) other instructors at their 5-day, hands-on workshops in August at the Niagara School of Imaging (from Sunday August 20 to Thursday August 24, 2006) at Brock University in Niagara Falls, Canada. |
Sunday, August 20,2006
through Designed by Professionals |
