Slide 13 of 13
The aperture on our camera will also effect the final photo. When we focus the camera the lens is set to its widest opening which is probably f2 or f1.4 on our cameras. This opening lets in lots of light to allow for easier focusing....BUT...this wide opening will cause the background to become out of focus. We call that simplified. We can make the background sharper or included in our composition focus by making the aperture opening smaller letting in less light. This small opening will cause the background to be sharp and clear or included in our photo. We will study more on this later.
NOTES FROM VIDEO - After we finish this slide show we will look at a 30 minute video produced by Kodak titled ÒThe Art of Composing PicturesÓ. Here are the notes:
1. SIMPLICITY - Making the Center of Interest the most important - the most visual impact or given the most attention. Simplify the background - get close to the subject - watch your point of view and aim the camera to only include the subject and avoid clutter or competing subjects in the frame.
2. THIRDS - Off center placement of the subject - This is less static and more interesting than dead center. Only a STRONG subject with great attention gathering power can be placed in the center. Gives objects a sense of direction and a feeling of room to move.
3. LINES - SHAPES - Be awar of them, look for them and let them show by using an uncomplicated background - Diagonal lines add dynamics or action to a mood in a photo - they can be used to lead your way into the photo - Geometric shapes can add interest to a photo
4. BALANCE - this is part of life - we have balance in the body and in the balance of power in the government, etc. - Subject placement needs to be carefully placed - arrange shapes / colors / light and dark in pleasing way - frames can have symetric or non-symetric balance.
5. FRAME - Often a dark element or strong shape close to the camera and not in focus - use a variety of items from a tree to a rock to a file cabinet. Frame ads depth and you need to look for opportunities to use them.
6. MERGER - this is something to avoid. Our eye sees selectively - our mind will see only what it wants to and we can dull out the background in a scene, but the camera will not. Be aware of the background and watch out for trees, flag polls, etc. that may look like they stick out of a head. Color can also merge in obejects of similar color. To avoid start by seeing the merger. To cure simply change the angle of view to change the background or get closer and make the background simple.
