Photography: Odd Numbers & Symmetry
Tips & Tricks - “Odd Numbers & Symmetry”
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate
HOW IT WORKS:
THE RULE OF 3’S: Whenever possible frame your pictures with odd numbered objects. By far the most popular odd number is 3, but any odd number of objects (generally speaking) is better than even numbers. The reason for this is that it is harder for your brain to take in an image that is not symmetrical. Your eye has to move more throughout the image (from object to object) to take it all in. This translates into a “more interesting” composition compared to one that your eye can take in quicker by dividing it in half or grouping even numbered of objects.
SYMMETRY: In the example above the image on the left still “looks good” because the even number of objects is not symmetrical due the different heights of the vases. Your eye still has to travel (almost in a circular motion) to take in the 4 objects. Granted this process of “taking an image in” happens in seconds or faster, therefore any time you can cause your viewer to “need more time” to “take in” or appreciate the image, the better.
The image below is another example of odd numbers. Remember this is only a guideline and there are always exceptions, but you should aim to follow these rules before you can begin to break them.
From Behind the Lens is a monthly newsletter made available by Coastline Studios. This article is one of many produced by Coastline Studios.
What’s New with Coastline Studios?
This month Coastline Studios is proud to announce the release of our ENTIRELY NEW WEBSITE! The new site is loaded with both photo and video samples from as early as 2003 to present – many of which have not been seen before. This new site is actually three different websites geared towards three different target markets; portraits, weddings and corporate / commercial. It is definitely worth checking out if you haven’t been there within the last month. You might just see yourself on there! (if you were a previous client of course)
Want to learn more about photography, or really begin to understand the power behind Adobe Photoshop? Then Coastline Studios’ “Photography Workshop” is perfect for you! From beginners to intermediate level photographers, this workshop is an ideal means to building a solid foundation in the photographic arts without the long term commitment or high prices of a semester long college class. This convenient 4-session workshop takes place on Tuesday and Thursday nights at the end of January in Grand Rapids, MI. This workshop would make a perfect Christmas Gift for that loved one who loves photography. Sign up before Christmas to receive a bonus lighting class for free! (A $75 value!) For more information about the class, or to register click the link below:
www.Coastline-Studios.com/class
Media of the Month
TITLE: “Late Night Dip”
PHOTOGRAPHER: John Pottenger
TECHNICAL: Shutter: 1/8, Aperture: f2.8, ISO: 400, Focal Length: 50mm – On Tripod.
THE STORY: It was the coldest day of the fall season with temperatures reaching a high of 36 degrees when Coastline Studios took this picture of a recently engaged couple during an engagement shoot.Due to scheduling conflicts the only time that would work was late in the day. It was near the end of the shoot when we reached this walking bridge which was lit up beautifully. With a longer than normal exposure time of 1/8 of a second, the natural bridge lighting cast an amazing silhouette of the couple.
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