Introduction
In the world of photography, equipment and technology play a significant role in capturing stunning images. However, it is important to recognize that even with the gear we already possess, we can create exceptional pictures. In fact, with a little more thought and understanding of basic composition techniques, we have the potential to become better photographers. In this article, we will delve into the principles of composition and explore how they can elevate our photography skills.
What Makes a Winning Image?
When we talk about winning images, we refer to the ability of a photograph to captivate and engage the viewer on various levels. Whether it’s our friends, family, fellow photographers, or even magazine editors and competition judges, the aim is to elicit that coveted “wow” response. So, what exactly constitutes a winning image?
A winning image encompasses several elements. It could be a fresh perspective of a familiar subject, the capture of a fleeting and decisive moment, or a precisely executed depiction of underwater geometry, shapes, and symmetry. Most winning images boast high contrast in terms of light or color, a well-defined subject, and a careful balance between the visual weights within the frame. However, what sets them apart is their ability to strike a chord with viewers, emotionally engaging them in a profound manner.
Before diving into advanced composition techniques, it is essential to have a solid grasp of our cameras and lighting systems. By developing mental and muscle memory, we can effortlessly maneuver our equipment underwater, allowing us to focus more on the creative aspect of composition. Hence, it is crucial to invest time in learning and practicing with our gear, encompassing books, courses, and hands-on experimentation. As renowned photographer Ansel Adams wisely said, “You don’t take a photograph, you make it.” This is precisely where composition takes center stage in our photographic journey.
A Model for Underwater Composition
To grasp composition at a profound level, we can adopt a model that provides a structured approach. In the following sections, we will explore the model’s three primary elements: light, contrast, and balance.
Light
Understanding and effectively capturing light is an essential skill for every photographer. The relative direction, intensity, and quality of light have a profound impact on the final image. They shape the color and contrast we desire – the fundamental tools of composition. Light can manifest in various forms, from natural to artificial, and in a range of qualities, including hard or directional and soft or diffuse. By using diffusers on strobes, we can create softer light, ideal for showcasing vibrant colors. On the other hand, removing diffusers and utilizing a single strobe or differential power with two strobes offer more directional and dramatic lighting, resulting in intriguing shadows and details. Continuing to consider natural light’s direction is always important – positioning the sun behind us captures colors in expansive scenes, while side lighting emphasizes shadows, shapes, and textures. By skillfully employing lenses, apertures, and shutter speeds, we, as photographers, essentially use light as our master tool to paint color and detail into our images.
Contrast
In photography, nothing truly exists without its opposite – contrast. While it may seem obvious in terms of brightness and color, creating contrast is vital to ensuring that viewers can quickly discern and engage with the subject in our images. To achieve this, a balance between high and low contrast must be struck. This can occur through disparities in light, color, or both, with high contrast subjects set against a lower contrast background. Such an approach prevents overwhelming intricacies that tend to clutter the primary subjects. One effective technique to assess contrast is by examining small thumbnails of our images. If the main subjects are not immediately evident, it could indicate insufficient contrast. Silhouettes and monochrome images serve as excellent examples to showcase high contrast in terms of light. For instance, deliberately shooting into or across the light in the images of a freediver and a shipwreck draws attention to their distinct shapes and outlines. Manipulating aperture settings can also influence contrast by either blurring background details with a wide aperture or emphasizing the foreground subject color against a dark background by using a small aperture along with flash lighting.
Contrast encompasses more than just light and color differentials. Subtle contrasts like texture and density or size and position can further enhance our images. These understated contrasts contribute to viewer appreciation and engagement. For instance, juxtaposing a smooth subject against a textured sponge background, as depicted in the image of an eggshell cowrie, creates an engaging visual dynamic. Similarly, choosing the precise moment to capture a barracuda amidst a school of fish, with each fish heading in opposite directions, brings the contrasts of direction and scale to the forefront, triggering an immediate visual impact.
Balance
Balance is a masterful organizing principle in composition. Each element within an image possesses a specific visual weight, influenced by size, color, position, focus, content strength, and implied vectors. An implied vector refers to the direction suggested by an element – such as the alignment of fish or the orientation of a shipwreck – which influences how viewers explore the image. Achieving balance involves evaluating the main compositional elements within the viewfinder and adjusting our position underwater to distribute visual weights evenly throughout the frame. Although challenging, immediate image review proves invaluable underwater, as certain color patches may only be visible once illuminated by artificial light.
Color holds significant visual weight in an image. Finding the right balance creates a sense of stability and harmony. However, deliberately unbalancing an image, such as by distributing substantial visual weight on one side, can generate tension and intrigue. For example, positioning a diver looking out of the frame, without any evident subject present, creates curiosity within the viewer. The inability to discern what the diver sees engenders a sense of tension and excitement – particularly if their eyes convey a wide-eyed expression. Unleashing our imagination and pushing the boundaries of balance can result in captivating compositions.
The Wow Factor
While achieving good contrast and balance within our images improves the chances of creating a wow factor, subject selection plays a crucial role. Viewers often tire of seeing similar underwater imagery since countless photographs already exist. Therefore, novelty becomes a valuable commodity. Capturing rarely photographed subjects undoubtedly grabs attention, but relying solely on rarity for image impact may prove challenging. On the other hand, we can experiment with new approaches to photographing commonplace subjects.
Novelty and unique viewpoints hold immense value in composition. For instance, encountering and photographing saltwater crocodiles can be a feat in itself, making these creatures fascinating subjects due to their scarcity. However, even common subjects, when photographed at high magnification or approaching super-macro techniques, can prompt viewer interest. Consider the captivating image of a common shrimp, showcased in high key, with vibrant colors and natural light. By deviating from the norm and veering towards a different perspective, it becomes possible to transform mundane subjects into extraordinary visual experiences.
As photographers, we must embrace experimentation with various lenses, lighting techniques, and viewpoints. Striving to be different, pushing our creative boundaries, and capturing the endless possibilities of macro and super-macro photography remain key strategies. However, no matter the approach, vibrant colors, interesting shapes, and the fundamental elements of contrast and balance always remain vital.
Conclusion
To further our photographic endeavors, it is essential to invest time in studying both online resources and physical publications on photography and composition. By doing so, we can expand our knowledge and understanding, enabling us to progress more rapidly than simply focusing on acquiring the latest camera gear and accessories. Reflecting on the ideas presented in this article and carefully analyzing the work of other photographers help sharpen our compositional skills. With practice and a deeper understanding of composition, we can confidently create more winning images.
About the Author
Paul Colley, a distinguished underwater photographer and instructor, is the author of the critically acclaimed book, “Winning Images with Any Underwater Camera.” Recognized by the Royal Photographic Society for its substantial contribution to the research, education, and application of underwater photography, Paul’s book stands as a testament to his expertise and passion for the art form.
The article is compiled and compiled by tipcamera.com
