CREATING GOOD PHOTOGRAPHS

LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Describe the basic elements of creating good photographs and the inherent security and safet considerations.

Creating good photographs (news, feature or otherwise) depends heavily on the imagination and know-how of the person behind the camera. You must have a storehouse of imaginative ideas for presenting simple, yet interesting photographs that emphasize a definite point of view. The shot must have both visual and emotional impact and offer the viewers a

Tony Giberson 165.4

Figure 12-7. - Feature photograph offering a unique view.

perspective they do not always see (fig. 12-7). All of the qualities mentioned are a must for a news photographer striving for good photographic composition.

Essentially, photographic composition is a harmonious combination of a main subject and its supporting elements. This means you must be able to recognize these elements and then arrange them into the photograph that will tell your story.

Learning the art of good composition is similar to mastering any other skill. First you must understand the rudiments. Then, through much practice and attention, you develop your talent to the highest degree of perfection possible.

In the early stages of learning, we depend almost exclusively on what we can see and hear, imitating what has been done before. Much can be learned about composition by studying various works of art and collections of good photographs. Each one offers an example of how to present a subject in an effective and interesting manner. By attempting to duplicate some of these photographs, you can acquire an understanding of the basic elements of composition.

The proper placement of the subject within the space of the photograph is one of the most important elements of good composition. Whenever possible, you should select and arrange the subject elements, choosing the viewpoint and lighting conditions that present the subject best. You also should arrange the subject in the photograph in such a way as to clearly and predominantly be the main point of interest. The main idea of the photograph should be recognizable immediately to anyone viewing your photograph.

In aiming for good composition, you should learn and use the following principles as guides: l Simplicity

Point of interest

Compositional lines

Balance

Forms

Rhythm or pattern

Tone

Depth perception

Action

Security and safety considerations

Your awareness, application and practice of these principles when composing a scene will assist you greatly in making an interesting presentation of your subject.