Digital Photography
Composition: Group research in principles of design
August 27, 2012
Composition: Dominance and Subordination: In composition, the dominant figure is
supported by the subordinate. This is accomplished through arrangement of objects on
the screen, framing. This can be accomplished by color, by value, contrast, lighting,
depth of field, exposure, etc. We have not covered all of these topics, but by now you
should become familiar with the idea that you have much control just by framing your
shot according to the basic rules of composition we have learned. When you frame a
shot, think of the simple dominant object you want to bring the viewerʼs attention to. This
is the dominant point of your photo. What other elements of your composition can
support this dominant element? Can you use leading lines? Can you use color, what
about value? What about size, can the dominant element be bigger, or even smaller but
a different color? Can elements in a composition be arranged such that all other
subordinate elements in the design lead the eye ultimately to the focal point, or
dominant element of the composition?
Remember, this and all photos now moving forward can be thought of as a triad for
communication between you (photographer), audience or viewer, and the subject itself.
Find one photo online where you think dominance and subordination are clearly evident.
Share this image with the rest of your group. Present your found image to the me.
Composition: Principles of Design
Group Presentations:
Working with the people in your row, please plan a presentation that demonstrates your
ʻprinciple of designʼ. Your presentation can be created in Keynote. It should include:
First image in presentation: Dominant/subordinate example-and why?
1. Topic (principle of design assigned to your row)
2. Definition of your principle of design
3. Are there different ways to look at it? Are there variants? For example, when
discussing balance, you can discuss both symmetry and asymmetry, perhaps others.
4. How can this principle of design apply to photography?
5. 6 Examples of the principle in photography
6. How can your principle of design be used to create a photo clearly demonstrating
dominance and subordination? Show an example.
Row 1: Balance
Row 2: Harmony
Row 3: Unity
Row 4: Emphasis
Row 5: Rhythm
References:
www.visiongallery.com
Digital Photography
Composition: Group research in principles of design
August 27, 2012
http://photography-now.net/photographers/?p=1616
1.
Josef Sudek
2.
Hiroshi Sugimoto
3.
Robt and Shana ParkeHarrison
4.
Yousef Karsh
http://www.fineartphotoblog.com/
http://art-support.com/photographers.htm#contemporary
Photographers of note to check out:
Stiglitz, Lange, Adams, Strand, Weton, Salgado
Excellent photographer/artist:
Lillian Bassman
Elliott Erwitt
Ansel Adams
Andre Kertesz