Photography is a two-dimensional medium, which attempts to re-create a three-dimensional world.
My “go-to” compositional style is the fill-the-frame, straight-on view – there’s something about the neat geometry of this approach that appeals to me – with everything lining up within the frame. But because of this, many of my images lack perceived depth – depth that encourages the viewer to “enter” the photograph and explore.
So, this month’s challenge was to compose with depth in mind – to purposefully use leading lines and forced perspective to create that sense of three dimensions.
(And yes, apparently I am continuing last month’s black and white challenge as well.)
This was a tough one for me – taking me out of my usual compositional style. It’s not that I never shoot this way – I just have to consciously think about it. About finding ways to avoid the “easy” flat shot.
In his book, Within the Frame: The Journey of Photographic Vision, David du Chemin has this to say about visual depth:
“It pulls the viewer into the image and invites the eye to walk around a little, to explore the space. It adds the illusion and feel of the third dimension and creates an image that beckons viewers to spend some time. It adds complexity and texture. If you want your images to give the viewer a greater sense of being there, creating depth is important.”
So, here I am – compositionally challenged – inviting you to explore the depths with me.
(And – stop the presses! - I do get extra points for including a real, live, moving human being in the shot below!)
Please consider joining in – the link will be open through the end of the month. I look forward to your challenge topics. If you are curious as to what the the Third Thursday Challenge is all about or you want to pick up the button code, you can find out the details here.
