This mind map includes helpful research into
photo composition and techniques that helps to
create an impact on its audiences. We feel that
this research will be particularly useful for our
poster promoting our documentary. This
includes 5 'rules' which are:
By Jack Archer, Alex Duckett and Wil Laufs
1. SIMPLIFY THE SCENE: As the camera, such as a DSLR does
not discriminate and therefore crisply captures everything
within an image, it is advised that when taking a photo, the
subject must be chosen and the focal length should be set
accordingly. Silhouettes, textures and patterns are often good
examples of simple compositions.
This technique
works as a simpler
image can
potentially make
more of an impact.
This is something
that we would need
to consider when
choosing our poster
image(s).
2. ASPECT RATIO: When taking an image, it is advised to
take a horizontal AND vertical shot of the scene,
adjusting the position and/ or zoom setting if
necessary. When wanting to take a widescreen- effect
image, it is good to ensure that the image crops to a
16:9 ratio. However, if this is something that we would
go for, we would need to remember that the aspect
ratio may be different on the medium that we would
print our image on.
3. AVOID THE MIDDLE: The majority of the time, having the subject of the image in the middle of the frame can create quite a static and boring image. One way to overcome this is
using the RULE OF THIRDS, where the image is split into thirds horizontally and vertically and then the subject can then be placed in any of these imaginary sections. Sometimes it
is good to move the subject away from the centre whilst also considering the rest of the scene and also any contrasts in light and colour.
4. USING DIAGONALS: Horizontal images often evoke and
connote static and calm pictures, whereas vertical images
often connote permanence and stability. However
diagonal images are good images to use in order to
evoke/ connote drama, uncertainty which can be
achieved simply by altering the focal length. Wider angled
shots tend to introduce diagonal lines due to greater
perspective. Or the "Dutch Tilt" technique could be used,
whereby the camera is tilted as the picture is being taken.
5. BACKGROUND: This aspect of the image
is just as important as the subject. This rule
almost ties in with simplifying the scene.
Often, changing the camera and/or the
subjects position can be enough to get rid of
a cluttered background. Otherwise, a wide
lens aperture or a longer focal length can be
used to blur out the background of an
image. For this, it would depend whether
the background is suitable and is part of the
story that we want to tell