Image Design Tutorial - Composition 3

[kenpossum]

While the 'Rule of Thirds' composition works well remove the subject from the center of the image, it is not the only option. One of my favorite alternatives is the "oval composition" illustrated below. (Please forgive me for reposting this image.)



Here I used the natural flight oval of the Long-legged Dowitchers as my image design element. There is no prominent subject at any of the four quadrants other than the two bushes which help to provide a frame for the Dowitchers. The composition would still work without the bushes. Your eyes tend to follow the outline of the oval.

The next image is of the Reifel Synchronized Pintail Swimming Team and illustrates the 'oval composition. Your eyes tend to travel in an oval as you view the image. There is no central subject, but the entire oval pattern is the subject.



If you can combine both the Rule of Thirds with an Oval Composition as I have in the top photo, you have a real winner.

[Chris]

Thanks for the information Ken. I am slowly learning.

Cool picture of the Pintails as well.

[kenpossum]

Thanks Chris. Glad these blogs are of use. Interesting experience with the pintails. It started with just one taking the dive for salad, than a second joined it. I was very pleased with the pair, then a third joined in. I was amazed when the fourth joined the team. That they all lined up in the same direction blew my mind! It was my fav shot of the day.

[oldfulica]

Feb 6, 2011 22:10:05 GMT -8 Chris said:

Thanks for the information Ken. I am slowly learning.

Cool picture of the Pintails as well.

Yes, I liked that one too.