In today's post, I will show You how I shoot dynamic photographs by using compositional grids.
I will also explain, how you can break those grids in order to convert harmony into dynamism. A system which will help you to lead the viewer's eyes exactly where You want them to go.
Considering the fact that the photograph is a flat surface which has only two dimensions, in order to appear realistic, we must trick the viewer's eye and create an illusion of the third dimension.
Linear perspective is a system you can use in order to create depth of illusion on your photographs.
In this example, I will use linear perspective grid with One vanishing point placed on the horizon line, looking like this:
You can see me using this grid in a photograph, and I will now explain how you can break it.
All the lines are leading away from the viewer, into one vanishing point - placement of the rocks, the way clouds are formed, and the background with the forest.
In order to enter dynamics I am placing the main protagonist of this photo, in such a way which will be in a conflict with the basic grid I am using. The dog is the only one advancing forward - she is going against all the energies shown on this photograph. By doing this, I am leading the viewer's eyes straight to her.
Someone who doesn't follow the rules, and goes against all odds we perceive as fearless, brave, and sometimes a little bit crazy. Brave people are the ones making the change in this world. The quality that we all appreciate, which is why the viewer will automatically be fond of the dog shown in the photograph - exactly what I am trying to accomplish.
Not everything will go the way we want, which is why is so easy to relate to this dog.
Whatever life throws at you, do not be encouraged, stand still, be brave, and wait till the rain stops. The sun will come, and so will the time to progress forward. Be strong, like dog Mariposa.
I wish You a wonderful day :)