“The camera sees more than the eye, so why not make use of it?” – Edward Weston
John of photobyjohnbo is hosting the challenge this week and he suggests we focus on only four compositional factors in photography; Shape, Form, Texture and Light of objects. The first two, Shape and Form, are occasionally used interchangeably although they have two distinct visual characteristics which is determined by the way light strikes the object. A Shape looks flat or two-dimensional where as a Form is an object that is emphasized by shadows and highlights creating depth or a three-dimensional look.
Let’s compare a few pictures to show how to determine the difference between Shape and Form objects. The silhouette shot and pelican below it are examples of a Shape. They are both 2 dimensional and flat. (Clicking on a picture will enlarge it for better viewing.)
In contrast, The Bean in Millennium Park, downtown Chicago, and the Florida palm tree fronds show examples of an object as a Form. Light and shadows on the buildings, The Bean and palm tree fronds has created visual depth and a three dimensional object.
Texture in a composition is the visual quality of the surface of an object which is revealed through variances in Shape/Form, Tone and Color depth. Texture creates life and vibrance in an image which would otherwise appear flat.
The recent beach scene on Kiawah Island, SC, is also the header photo this week. This shows examples of sunlight revealing various Forms and Textures of sand dunes in addition to grainy particles of sand. Texture and Form is also visible in the clouds, their pleasing colors against the blue sky in addition to the Shapes of people, a dog and a building further down the beach.
The next photo shows intricate architectural designs on The Bahat House of Worship in Chicago, another example of Texture and also Form used as a composition tool.
Finally, the compositional tool of Light is defined as the deliberate use of it to achieve practical or aesthetic effects, it can be an artificial light or a natural source or both. The blue flower in the vase and bubbles in the water are good examples.
Hope you enjoyed seeing these pictures and learning a bit about the use of Shape, Form, Texture and Lighting of objects to help create a more interesting composition.
Be sure to see John’s post, Journey’s with Johnbo, to learn more about these four tools plus see his great pictures!
“Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness in people.” – Princess Diana
Wonderful post, Sylvia. Your text and photos work beautifully together and you nailed the challenge with both. First one is my favourite, it’s a great moment.
Sorry for the late response, Sylvia! We were out shooting photos yesterday and didn’t get to review comments until this morning. Your images all fit the challenge well. My favorites, though, are the Bahat House and the silhouette.
Wowww. Great examples, all. Man silhouette, cloud/beach header shot, and blue flowers are a few of my many faves. Outstanding.
Beautifully organized, Sylvia. You walked us into each tool with ease and clarity. The texture and detail of the Bahat House is a great photo. I think for today I love the crispness of the silhouette.
Sylvia, you masterfully explained the tools of compositions in your post. The photos are stunning. I loved the temple, especially. Those textures are amazing.