The Concept of Using Space
Space is not only THE FINAL FRONTIER, but also something photographer's use as part of their story telling. There is a RULE OF SPACE as it relates to the subject in the photograph and it says:
- the direction the subject of the photograph is moving in, or even just looking in, dictates where the subject in the photograph should be placed.
Let's examine.
The photo below is a completely centered image of our dog Billie. She is sitting on a picnic table at the park on an overcast day in the Fall. There is nothing really interesting behind her, in fact, there are many distractions in the environment.
This is an instance where I believe CENTERING the image is helpful to focus on the subject (Billie) and not on what is happening around her.
This is why you will often see photographs with the subject off-center. We are attempting to create "an illusion of movement." If Talley were to pick up and go, we've left her space to do it.
Below is one more example of a portrait where more space is given to where Lilah's gaze is moving than to the area behind her.
It was interesting that he advocates for CROPPING OUT anything that doesn't have to do with the main subject, and to use a visualization process while photographing that will help you design that final crop in camera, while taking the photo.
I am looking to incorporate more landscape work into my animal and pet photography, and his class was amazingly helpful as a start to working my way toward that goal.
Click Into the Circle
I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic (center), start here with MA and NH dog photographer Darlene Woodward as she shares her new swoon-worthy artisan framed portraits, perfect for making your dog the center of attention.
Then find the link at the end of each blog to click on to the next photographer, until ou find yourself back here.
Enjoy! Have a great weekend! Spring has finally sprung!