thought: composition

In a recent entry I posted my Composition Quiz for the Digital Fundamentals class that I teach at CSUF. Here are the answers:
1. Define the term composition. (4 points)
The organization of an image where emphasis is placed on particular visual details to convey meaning.
2. Name and define two major elements of composition. (4 points)
line-to draw the eye or create mood
tone-brightness (overall light image) conveys open or light mood; darkness conveys mystery, dullness
mass-larger objects appear closer
contrast-darker objects recede, lighter precede, light on dark stands out and vice versa
color-use color theory to emphasize the subject or convey symbolism: red: energy, power, danger; blue: calm; orange: happiness; green: growth, freshness;
3. Explain and illustrate the Rule of Thirds. (4 points)
To make an image more dynamic, a photographer would visually break up the image area into thirds both horizontally and vertially then place the main subject or significant elements at the intersections of the lines or along the lines on either side of center.

4. Describe how the mood or feeling of a photo can be conveyed through the use of composition lines. Use two examples of composition lines. (4 points)
Horizontal-at rest, peaceful, calm
Vertical-strong, powerful
Diagonal-dynamic, active
Curved-flowing, movement
Zig-zag–chaotic, restless
Opposing-conflict
5. Describe how color can be used to emphasize the main subject in a photograph. Use two colors as examples. (4 points)
Spot color-a small area of one color stands out against a neutral or contrasting background
Contrasting colors-opposite each other on the color wheel-red & cyan, yellow and blue, green & magenta. Use this technique to create energy or clash between the subject and it’s surroundings.
Complimentary colors-next to each other on the color wheel-red & orange, green & blue. Use this technique to create a feeling of harmony with the subject and it’s surroundings.
Monochromatic color-using all the same color in varying hues to emphasize a mood of calm (blue), energy (red) or fresh (green). The main subject would be the darkest or most saturated value to stand out.

Kristianne Koch Photography

Kristianne Koch specializes in artistic portrait photography of families, children and couples. 949-702-7707 kristianne.koch@cox.net

This entry was posted on Friday, October 10th, 2008 at 2:03 pm. It is filed under photography and tagged with composition, photography, quiz. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.