Design+Principles

Theresa D Photography 12

Colour Space
"D" This picture makes me wonder what the D stands for... whether it's the photographers initial or something more significant. I think this picture works well for colour space as the viewers eye is immediately drawn to the D. Even though this picture is cluttered, all the beads have uniform textures so a strong and simple point is still made. The lighting seems to be coming from the bottom left. The focus of this picture is, quite obviously, the red D bead, and is therefore what the photo is about.

Depth
"Dominos" I think this picture is well set up to demonstrate the depth of field between the dominos, which are the focus of the picture. Although this depth may not be the deepest, the dominos and the space in between them are the main focus of this picture. The picture is balanced by the simplicity of the background against the complexity of dominos. This photo is lit by a key light in front of the dominos, and was probably shot at a low aperture. However, it still looks photoshop to create a forced perspective that the far dominos seem further than they actually are. The inviting texture and set up of the dominos seem to want to be pushed. They make me wish for times when me and my sister would play dominos while sailing in summers long past.

Diagonals
The diagonal created between the reaching figures is the most dynamic element of this picture. The background is slightly cluttered however the focus, the arch, still manages to stand out amongst the streetlights. It could have perhaps been improved if it was taken at a lower angle, so that more of the background would be the night sky. The river enhances the picture by providing reflections, a slight S-curve and a separation between the reaching figures. This picture is meant to showcase the architectural achievement that this statue is, and it makes me wonder where this is located, and the scale of the picture.

Element Relationship
"Charleston, South Carolina" (Robert Frank, The Americans) This picture is taken by one of my favorite photographers, Robert Frank, whose showcase of his roadtrip across America in the mid-50's revealed a bleak landscape, both socially and physically. All of his pictures invoke strong emotions, with strong themes of abandonment and isolation. This picture, to me, demonstrates both of these themes as well as a strong element relationship dynamic. It also is a good example of colour space, with a stark contrast between the older, black nurse and the pale baby. The rest of the naturally lit picture is also pale, and washed out. These two human beings provide a good balance against the empty sidewalk behind them. I think this photo is meant to draw the contrast between these two people, who are intimately intertwined yet also complete opposites.

Simple and Single Point
This picture is meant to make a simple and single statement without being boring. The composition is enhanced by the bokeh effect in the background, which adds light and an interesting feature to a picture which may have been completely mundane otherwise. I wonder what the background is... probably water. How did they get that effect? Was it added in post or was it done with the camera? This picture is well balanced, however the bright colour of the leaf against the sedated background is a little bit of an eyesore.

Triangles
"Outside the Square" (Naomi Weiser) This picture is dizzying to look at. When you are able to look at it without squinting and break it down further, the uniform geometric shapes still make a dizzying pattern. This picture is not meant to be balanced, it is meant to throw it's viewers off balance. There are many triangles found in both the architecture and the spaces in between, drawing the viewers in. The textures are cold, and straight, enhancing the futuristic feel of this photograph. The background also aids this, as it is symmetrical and collosal. The lighting seems to be natural, perhaps on a cloudy day.

Planes and Depth Levels
"Cantelope Without a Man" (Pamela Henry)

There are many evident planes and depth levels in this picture, creating a dynamic mix of light and shadow. Although the colours are very similar, the curves of the caves and the angle from which this picture was shot showcase the depth of the cave. The lighting is coming from above, and the textures identify the location as an arid location. The focus of this picture is the shaft of light coming down from the hole in the ceiling. This picture reminds me of warm, sunny days, and I believe that that was the memory it was meant to invoke.