Framing the View differently (5/6)

Requirement

5 photographs

Purpose

• To make active choice on the role of the foreground in composing landscapes
• In doing this, to experiment with changing (a) viewpoint (b) proximity to subject and/or (c) focal length of lens

Technical learning

• The more the foreground plays a role in composition, the more options you create
• Some landscapes are simple to compose because the view is fixed – most of the subject lies on the middle to background, especially if shot from a high point. The key choice is the relationship of land to sky.
• However, the presence of features (rocks, trees, buildings, etc) in landscape opens us more choice in composition. Unlike studio portraits, these features are fixed. However, by varying (a) viewpoint (b) proximity to subject and/or (c) focal length of lens, you can significantly change composition
• Landscapes are often complex and untidy in the whole. In composing an image, always be alert to the photographers role in organizing these elements into a meaningful and compelling image 
• Consider in this ordering process: (a) balance of elements, (b) division of the frame, (c) use of perspective, (d) exploitation of graphic elements (lines, shapes, patterns) and (e) depth

Exercise instructions

Find a scene that has a distant view, foreground interest and the ability to move to different viewpoints (so that you have choices on the relationship between picture elements). Walk round the range of viewpoints shooting different compositions of the scene.

Use 3 design principles:

• Simplify composition where possible
• Eliminate distractions
• Use foreground constructively (or exclude altogether)

Images and Review


Virginia Water Lake, Surrey on a misty morning

Scene setting at the edge of the lake. The hazy conditions
enhance the reflections in the water of the walkers

The mini waterfall close up. Aperture stopped down
to minimum the shutter speed to blur the motion
of the water

A swan, middle left of first image, drinks from the flowing water

On the other side another swan preens
in the water sending out ripples as it does so

Reflection of two walkers look at the water's edge

Journey through a ruin on coast of Southern Spain

Entrance to the small wood

First sight of the Tower through the eucalyptus trees

The Tower looking back towards the entrance

Close up of the Tower

Leaving area by a road to the coast