Project 17 - Positioning a Point

In this project we are reminded that there are essentially 3 classes of position : in the middle; slightly off-centre; close to the edge.  I had to take 3 photos with a single point which was placed in a different part of the frame in each of the photos. 

In this photo the white flower is positioned centrally in the frame.  The image is static, with no sense of movement being suggested. 

In this second image the white flower has been placed slightly off-centre to the right of the frame, but still close to the horizontal centre line.  It is a slightly more interesting image as the eye is drawn to the area of grass on the left of the image and then back to the flower. 

                                      

In this final image the white flower is placed close to the right side of the frame and below the horizontal centre line.  In my opinion it is the best composed of the images.  Your attention is drawn to the position of the flower in relation to the frame.  By drawing a line mentally through the flower (point) vertically and horizontally we can see that the point is placed roughly in accordance with the rule of thirds.

Project 16 - Defining a Point

In this project I have been asked to list as many types of situation I can which would make a clear photo of a point, thinking about the types of background, types of subject, lighting etc.

For a subject to be considered a point in a photograph it must be small in the frame and contrast with its surroundings.

• small object against a plain background
• dark coloured subject against a light background
• light coloured object against a dark background
• object with a strong focal point within it ( I am thinking about the flower close up in the coursework folder for project 16, page 102, where the centre of the flower contrasts with the dark petals around it )

Specifically :

• poppy in a wheat field
• horse in a field of green grass
• car on a road
• aeroplane in  the sky
• dog on a beach
• kite in the sky

Colour can be an important factor in determining a good photograph of a clear point, but we shall be covering colour later in the course. 

I looked through my photo collection and also photos I have saved from magazines, for ones which I felt were good examples of the use of a point.  I have attached a couple of my favourites.

When searching for one of an aeroplane in the sky, I found it difficult to find one with the 'plane small enough in the frame.  This shot is of a Mustang and was taken at a local air display earlier this year.  Althoough there is a large cloud popping up in the frame, the darker and distinct shape of the 'plane is strong enough to be a good point in the image.

                                     

This image is of a poppy in a field of unripe barley.  Here it is the colour of the bright red poppy which contrasts against the green-yellow of the barley creating the point.  The background is actually quite fussy, but the colour contrast emphasises the flower, and the eye is drawn to it.

Preparation

I spent the weekend (well, Sunday mainly) preparing for the next part of the course, which is Elements of Design.  It covers points, lines, shapes and (a bit later) colour. I'm quite looking forward to this part actually. I've been planning what photos I already have which I can use, and what photos I need to take (there's a lot!).  I'm getting a bit confused with the difference between "rhythm" and "pattern" so I'll have to look into that in more detail, perhaps a nosey around some blogs may help point me in the right direction.  If not, I'll have to post on the OCA forum...

I must also email my tutor and let her know that the next Assignment will be late (surprise) - the kids are on school holiday now, and while they are old enough to make their own entertainment, I find I am being called on for my taxi and cooking skills !