This week Tina invites us to show examples of how Leading Lines can be used to enhance the composition of a photograph. As she mentioned, well placed lines pave an easy path for the eye to follow through different elements of a photo. And, one of the most effective ways is to put your main subject at the end of a leading line.
It was a rainy morning in Murano, Italy, as this lady was leaving the shop and heading to the pier to catch a ride. The leading lines created by the brick curb draws the eye towards the lady plus her red wardrobe causes her to stand out even more. Plus, the lines of the softly curving branches of the overhead tree help keep the eyes from wandering outside the picture.
An example of nature creating interesting leading lines through the use of sunlight. The lighting helps direct the eye towards the city of Marseille, France, which otherwise would probably not be noticed. A rain squall is moving in on the right side of the picture as the bright sunlight remains in the center, directing the eyes over part of the city. Plus the light overhead is reflected on the water and this also leads the eye toward the city. (Another example of nature at her best!)
The corner view of this medieval castle in Naples, Italy, displays some interesting leading lines. Its semi-circle base has strong vertical lines leading the eye upward to the main area. Then at the very top, additional vertical lines extend downward towards the base. Castel Nuovo, often called Maschio Angoino, was erected in 1279 and is one of the main architectural landmarks for the city. Unfortunately this was taken through a bus window so the glare of the glass is obvious.
The two gondolas create leading lines taking the eye from the lower left foreground towards the right side. Then, they come to rest on the smaller gondola in the center of the picture. Red decorations on the boats also attract attention plus the row of buildings on either side help keep the eyes inside the picture. This was taken in Venice, Italy.
This bridge crosses the Tiber River in Rome, Italy. For some reason it appeals to me; two strong horizontal lines, although am not sure why, nor am I sure this picture even belongs in this week’s chosen topic. Even though it is hard to miss the couple standing in the lower left foreground, my eye keeps going to the bridge in the center of the picture.
Does it’s located in the center of the picture cause it to standout and therefore it attracts my eye? Also, do the arches beneath the bridge give it even more visual strength? I would be interested in knowing what you think.
Last but not least, I’d like to include a picture posted last week when the topic was Window with a View, sorry.😟 The double curved line of shrubs and sidewalk, positioned in the center of the picture, create such a strong leading line to the subject, that I decided to feature this again.
Hope you enjoyed these pictures and perhaps learning a little more about composition and the importance of leading lines!