Exercise 15. Positioning a point

For this exercise, I had to produce three photographs experimenting with different positions in which a single point can be successfully placed within the frame. Initially this seemed to me to be a relatively easy exercise, but as I started to consider subject matter, I came to realise that each subject should be placed within an uncluttered and simple background.  Below is a list of potential captures that I had considered for this exercise,  my main concern was that I would be converting each of the images to Gray scale as suggested for the exercise, and I had to view the scene in front of me in black and white, prior to taking the photograph.
When selecting my subject matter, I tried very hard to visualise it as a black and white image when completed.  I took into consideration, movement, texture, patterns, shape, lines, colour and tones that would I felt be reflected in the final photographs.


Flower head with little or no foliage
Flag
Boat
Mosque window/doorway, Minaret
Leaves
Lamppost
Seashells
Bird/animal
Light/candle
Bicycle
Rock on beach
People
Lone car in car park
BBQ on roadside


POINT.  As a basic element, a central place in an image that defines a position in space.  Where the eye goes-this may be a point of contrast, a vanishing point of perspective, or a central object in the image.

Fig 1    

1/500sec    f/3.0    60mm     ISO 100 

The single point in this photograph is positioned on the lower line of the right intersection, a very strong focal point, following the Rule of Thirds.

The three stamens at the centre of this Petunia, catch the eye and the eye is drawn away from that point by the radiating darker marking on the petals. 

By making use of  f/3.0 aperture I ensured that the depth of field created a blur behind my focal point.

Fig 2

f/13.0    105mm   

The rule of Thirds applies here also.  

The highest point of the bow of this fishing boat, lies in the upper third, 

This photograph conveys the feeling of stillness and peace.  The subject matter is very large in the frame, and the focal point is a strong one at the top right point.

The contrasting textures make this subject stand out.

Fig 3 

1/20sec    f/3.2    60mm    ISO 100

The spiral seen here is frequently found throughout nature. 

The Rule of Thirds applies here on the lower left intersection.

Contrasting patterns set this point of interest apart from its surroundings.

Fig 4 

1/20sec    f/3.3    60mm    ISO 100 

By placing the smaller shell very slightly off centre, gives this photograph an important visual element and an effective composition. 

The texture and lines on the larger shell, although softly out of focus, create lines for the eyes to follow.

There are similarities in shapes and patterns here, and make the subject stand out.  

Fig 5 

1/125sec    f/10.0    300mm    ISO 100 

The positioning of the buoy to the right hand side of the photograph, and concentrating on the placement of the lower part along the intersection in Rule of thirds, creates another effective composition. 

Fig 6 

1/50sec    f/4.0    55mm    ISO 100 

The central point of interest in this photograph is the gazebo.  With the placement of this structure placed within the guidelines of the Rule of Thirds it creates a strong focal point and object for the eye to rest on.

The horizontal line across the lower third of this photograph adds interest to the viewer.  

My thoughts on this exercise 

This exercise was similar an earlier one in part one, Positioning an object within the frame. 

With this task, I found it quite difficult to find a central point of interest. I had also decided that I would convert each of my photographs to grey scale, removing colour which otherwise would have been predominant  in each image.  

My main consideration was 'what is the central point of interest?'

I made a conscious effort to view each image in black and white and made a real effort to consider the composition. 

My reason for each positioning of the focal point is to ensure that when the viewer looks at the image the eye would focus upon one point and be held there. 

Points to consider when enhancing a point of interest in an image.

1. Focus - Depth of Field
2. Shape - contrasts in textures and shapes
3. Colour - Contrasting colours
4. Size - Vary size of point of focus
5. Positioning - Rule of thirds
6. Blur - shutter speeds and aperture.