Composition: Simplicity
The first and perhaps the most important guideline to composition is simplicity. Simplicity is the key to most good pictures. The simpler and more direct a picture is, the clearer and stronger is the resulting statement. There are several things to be considered when we discuss simplicity.
1. Subject Selection
1. Subject Selection First let's decide if we want our center of interest to be the public telephone, the bridge, or the cactus. We chose the cactus as the main subject. And by moving in closer and using the plain sky as the background, we have simplified and improved the appearance of this photograph. Rule: Select a subject that lends itself to a simple arrangement; for example, instead of photographing an entire area that would confuse the viewer, frame in on some important element within the area.
2. The Non-Busy Background
2. The Non-Busy Background We're certainly close enough to our subject in both pictures, but the busy background on the left camouflages the seagull. Just change your point of view slightly and, presto, your seagull stands with visual prominence against the blue sky. If you want to make your center of interest even more dynamic, place it slightly off center in your frame as we have done with this young artist. Rule: You can simplify your pictures and strengthen your center of interest by selecting uncomplicated backgrounds, avoiding unrelated subjects, and moving in close.
3. Clear Picture Reason – tell only one story
3. Clear Picture Reason – tell only one story The primary object is the reason the picture is being made in the first place; therefore, all other elements should merely support and emphasize the main object. Do not allow the scene to be cluttered with confusing elements and lines that detract from the primary point of the picture. When numerous lines or shapes are competing for interest with the subject, it is difficult to recognize the primary object or determine why the picture was made. Most of us would prefer the picture on the right because the parking lot tends to contradict the feeling of antiquity related to this mission. Rule: Select a viewpoint that eliminates distractions so the principal subject is readily recognized.
4. Vertical or Horizontal?
4. Vertical or Horizontal? Remember: we're talking about composition simplicity, and here's another decision you'll probably have to make. How much of your subject should you include, and should it be framed horizontally as we have done here? Or perhaps you'd prefer to frame your subject in the vertical format, as we've indicated with these frame lines. Rule: The choice is yours.
5. Viewpoints and Angles
5. Viewpoints and Angles Move around the scene or object being photographed. View the scene through the camera viewfinder. Look at the foreground and background. Try high and low angles as well as normal eye-level viewpoints. Evaluate each view and angle. Only after considering all possibilities should you take the picture. See beyond and in front of your subject. Be sure there is nothing in the background to distract the viewer's attention from the main point of the picture. Likewise, check to see there is nothing objectional in the foreground to block the entrance of the human eye into the picture. Rule: Select different viewpoints or camera angles.
Assignment: Simplicity Shoot 50-75 shots using the rules of simplicity and any subject Print a contact sheet of your 50 shots Choose your best 15 shots that show simplicity the best and create a visual (powerpoint, iMovie, slideshow, poster) Print a copy of your presentation (ask for help if needed) Due Date: Be ready to present 10/27