Competition Photo Turn In
January Judge for Leading Lines: Stone Peng.
https://stonepeng.com/home
Photography of "Lines: Leading, Symmetry, Geometric" is a powerful technique used to create visually compelling and dynamic images.
This approach utilizes various types of lines and geometric shapes to guide the viewer's eye, create balance, and add depth to compositions.
1. Leading Lines
Draw the viewer's attention to a specific point of interest in the image. They create a sense of depth and perspective, guiding the eye through the photograph.
Examples:
Roads or paths leading to a distant point
Railway tracks converging on the horizon
Staircases directing the eye upward
Rivers or streams winding through a landscape
Architectural elements like bridges or hallways
2. Symmetry
Creates a sense of balance and harmony in photographs found in both natural and man-made subjects.
Examples:
Reflections in still water, creating perfect horizontal symmetry- Architectural facades with balanced elements on either side
Portraits with the subject centered in the frame
Radial symmetry in flowers or circular structures
3. Geometric Shapes
Incorporating geometric shapes in photography adds structure and visual interest to images.
Examples:
Triangular compositions in landscapes or architecture
Circular elements like arches or domes
Rectangular frames within the image, such as windows or doorways
Repeating patterns in tile work or building facades
The golden ratio or rule of thirds grid overlaid on compositions[1]
Tips for Capturing Lines, Symmetry, and Geometric Shapes
Look for natural leading lines in landscapes and urban environments.
Use reflections to create symmetrical compositions.
Experiment with different angles and perspectives to emphasize geometric shapes.
Pay attention to architectural details for symmetry and patterns.
Incorporate the rule of thirds alongside leading lines for balanced compositions.
Use long exposures to create smooth, continuous lines in moving subjects like water or traffic.
Practice minimalism to highlight geometric shapes and symmetry
Useful Reference:
https://www.imaginated.com/photography/composition/styles/geometry-in-photography/
https://skylum.com/blog/symmetry-in-photography-the-ultimate-guide
https://digital-photography-school.com/how-to-break-the-rules-with-a-central-composition/
Leading Photographers and their work in this Field
Michael Kenna: Known for his minimalist, geometric black and white landscapes. Website: https://www.michaelkenna.com/
Hiroshi Sugimoto: Famous for his long-exposure seascapes with strong horizontal lines. Website: https://www.sugimotohiroshi.com/
Andreas Gursky: Renowned for his large-format architecture and landscape photographs with strong geometric elements. Website: https://www.andreasgursky.com/
Sebastião Salgado: Master of black and white photography, often incorporating strong leading lines in his documentary work. Website: https://www.amazonasimages.com/
Fan Ho: Late photographer known for his use of light, shadow, and geometric compositions in street photography. Website: https://www.fanho-forgetmenot.com/
Olivo Barbieri: Italian photographer famous for his tilt-shift cityscapes with strong geometric patterns. Website: https://www.olivobarbieri.it/
Edward Burtynsky: Canadian photographer known for his large-format images of industrial landscapes with striking geometric patterns. Website: https://www.edwardburtynsky.com/