Author Bio

Emily Amsler was born in Marietta, Georgia and always enjoyed playing with her parents' camera growing up. She is a third year student at the Georgia Institute of Technology and will graduate in 2012 with a degree in Science, Technology, & Culture and a second degree in Applied Language and Intercultural Studies (Spanish). She currently resides in Atlanta and continues pursuing her love of photography in her spare time.

Blurred Background

When we want to emphasize a particular object in a photograph, we often use the blurred background technique. In doing this, the photographer intentionally obscures the background of an image in order to accentuate an object in the foreground. This type of photography is commonly used in shots of nature scenes, as well as portraits.

Importance. This photographic concept is useful for elimminating any distractions that could potentially be in the picture. For instance, if the photographer wanted to shoot a picture of a flower without the hindrance of numerous trees in the background, he would purposefully blur the background of the image in order to emphasize the flower and nothing else in the frame. Utilizing this technique forces the viewer to focus on what the photographer had originally intended as the subject of the shot.

Method. In order to place the emphasis on solely the subject of an image, the photography must utilize his lens to throw the background out of focus. The depth of field (amount of in-focus distance, see next post) in the picture needs to be reduced enough so that the intended subject is sharp and the background is blurred. To shorten the depth of field, it is necessary to use a wide aperture (the size of the opening in the camera that allows light to enter). If a severe blur is desired, the photographer will need to use a low f-stop as well (see Figure 1). Additionally, the focus length (or width of the picture angle achieved through the use of an optical zoom) will need to be increased and the distance between the subject and the camera will need to be decreased. This way, there will be less background, therefore leaving less room for distraction in the photograph.

Depth of Field

One of the most imortant photographic concepts to grasp is depth of field. This term refers to the range of distance that appears acceptably sharp within an image.

Importance. Mastering depth of field in photography gives the photography control over how the viewer sees his picture. Using this technique forces the viewer to focus on a particular aspect of the shot due to its full clarity, making it stand out amongst the other objects in the frame.

Method. The objects placed in an image do not abruptly change from sharp to unsharp within the composition of the photograph. Instead, the change occurs as a gradual transition. Everything immediately in front or back of the focusing distance begins to lose sharpness, even if this is not perceived by our eyes or by the resolution of the camera. The term "circle of confusion" is used to define how much a point needs to be blurred in order to be perceived as unsharp. When the circle of confusion becomes perceptible to the eyes of the viewer, this region of the photo is said to be outside the depth of field and therefore no longer "acceptably sharp." As seen in Figure 1, an object relatively close to the main point of interest in the frame will still appear relatively sharp because the camera cannot easily differentiate the two as a result of their proximity. However, objects that are far away from t he main point of interest will appear unsharp due to the camera's inability to focus on two objects separated by such a great distance. In essence, the farther away an object is from the main point of interest, the less sharp it will appear.

Faceless Portrait

Faceless portrait photography is one of the most, if not the most, unconventional of all photographic techniques. There are really no guidelines as to how this type of photograph must be executed, as it is entirely left up to the discretion of how the photographer would like to portray his subject. In essense, faceless portraiture is the capturing of a person's disposition or personality without revealing his or her face.

Importance. In typical portraiture, the person's eyes are facial expression are generally an indication of how he or she is feeling. With faceless portraiture, however, it is the person's body language that tells the story of what is going on in the picture and what he or she might be feeling. Utilizing this technique allows the story to come from the sculpture of body and environment without the distraction of the face. Because the eyes cannot do the talking as they do in normal portraiture, other features (such as the person's hands) must be used to reflect emotion, as it is not clearly displayed for the viewer. Eliminating the face creates an imaginative frame through which the viewer must make several observations if he wants to understand what is going on in the photograph. The environment, therefore, can greatly contribute to the mood of the photo.

Method. There is practically no way to teach faceless portraiture. This technique requires the photographer to use his creativity in expressing the story or emotion of a scenario without allowing the subject to do it intentionally or subconsiously with his or her face. Examples of this conpositional concept include taking shots from behind the subject, cutting of his or her head entirely, covering the face with her or her hands/hair, reflection shots, among many others. Get creative!

Light/Shadow

Light and shadow significantly influence the mood of a photograph and often give it a striking aura as a result of stark contrast. This technique allows the photographer to make things visible or obscure objects in order to emphasize a certain aspect of the picture.

Importance. Together, light and shadow establish the correlation of one object to another and their place in the full scene of a photograph. Shadows are commonly used to create dramatic effect and produce a feeling of coldness or scariness. Increasing the amount of light in a picture often results in a feeling of warmness. The combination of light and shadow can consequently manipulate the spirit of the subject in the photograph.

Method. Altering the light source of a photograph changes the tone of the scene or subject entirely. For instance, placing the light source above the subject will cast the shadow on the lower portion of the subject, whereas placing it below the subject will cause the shadow to fall on top of the subject, often creating a "spooky" feeling. The light source can also be placed to either ide of the subject to highlight (or obscure) a certain aspect within the frame. However, if the light source cannot be altered (e.g. the sun), the photographer may have to change his angle to make the light fall differently on the subject.

Low-Light Situation

Taking photographs in low-light situations involves capturing a scene when the light source is very minimal. This technique is generally used when trying to document the authentic appearnace of a night scene without altering the natural colors in the photograph.

Importance. Mastering photography in low-light situations can drastically change the appearance of nighttime photographs and preserve the true colors of a scene without the use of a flash. Not using a flash can eliminate distraction inevents such as weddings, ceremonies, or other serious circumstances in which a diverting flash would take away from the genuineness of the event. On that note, this technique allows the photographer to capture the reality of a night scene where the flash would undoubtedly wash out the subject, cast unwanted shadows, or darken the background in the photograph.

Method. There are several primary conditions that are necessary for producing exquisite low-light photographs. First and foremost, a small aperture and long exposure times (slow shutter speeds) are vital for taking nighttime shots without excessive blur. In addition, a high ISO (which accounts for camera shaking) is required and a tripod may be necessary. Because there is less light available for the camera to take in through its aperture, there must be long exposure times to allow more time to take in the available light. For this reason, a tripod may be needed in order to keep the camera stable during long exposure times. (Some circumstances can require up to several minutes of exposure time in order to document scenes with hardly any light at all (in shots of stars or the sky, for example).

Variation. Despite the fact that the goal in low-light photography is usually to avoid blur, oftentimes allowing some blur can create a very artsy effect, as seen in the blur of movement creating a star in Sparkle Star (left). A similar approach was taken in American Chaos (below).

Motion

Motion is defined as the capturing of a moving obect within a photograph. This technique is generally captured spontaneously and thus has a very realistic effect.

Importance. Understanding how to photograph motion is crucial for capturing the image of an event that quickly passes, such as a play in a sporting event or simply the swiftness of two kids playing tag (see Catch Me If You Can, left). Being able to document the hype of a fast-paced event allows the photographer to visually express the emotion felt by the subject(s) in any particular circumstance, therefore making permanent the excitement or "rush" of that moment. In addition, motion photography can benefit the picture of any event, even when the movement is minimal (see A Stroll Through the Mosque, right). Despite the fact that people walking would usually seem to be bland subject matter, the blur of two people strolling through the photo on the right give it an added sense of interest.

Method. The camera's shutter speed is the most important element in successfully capturing motion. If set to a slow speed, the image will appear blurred. If fast, it will appear as if the image is frozen in time. The key is to make the subject appear focused and the background appear blurred in order to create a true sense of motion (or oftentimes the opposite, as long as part of the photo is focused and the other is blurred). There are two ways to capture movement in photographs: the camera is kept still while the subject moves, or the camera moves while the subject is stationary. The former is more common, and often requires a tripod to avoid excess blur. If the subject is moving toward or away from the photographer, there will be less blur than if the subject is moving side to side. This is because the image crosses fewer pixels during the exposure time, therefore leaving less opportunity for distortion of the moving image. Different effect can be achieved by taking advantage of this and shooting from various angles.

Reflection

Reflection is a cornerstone photographic technique because it is found everywhere in our surrounding world. By definition, it is the use of reflective surfaces to capture beautiful and unique images.

Importance. Using reflection in photography can take a lifeless photo and make it utterly intriuing. Through various mediums, the photographer has the ability to turn something ordinary into something more abstract and artistic. This type of photography forces the photographer (and the viewer) to see everyday scenes differently, taking in every aspect rahter than just one part of the entire setting. Symmetry in reflection adds significantly to the beauty of a photograph.

Method. There are numerous mediums through which the photographer can demonstrate his creativity in reflection photography. The refleection can be the focus of the photo, or it can just be an added touch of charm. In fact, it's difficult to NOT achieve great results when shooting reflection photography. Water is the most common medium when photographing reflection. Dusk and dawn scenes are frequently pursued because the water is usually calm at these times, making for a clearer reflection. The colors created by the sun at that time are also very dramatic. In glass reflection, the effect is very different because this surface is only half-reflective, which the photographer can use to his advantage. Partial reflection can be used to juxtapose two scenes simultaneously.

Repetition

Put simply, repetition is the use of patterns to focus on a single object that reoccurs within a photograph. Despite the fact that repetition is generally lackluster in daily life, using it in photography can have a strong effect on an image.

Importance. Repeating an object or shape throughout the photo gives it instant composition and grabs the attention of the viewer. Patterns are found all around us, particularly in architectural design such as the brick walls of a house, the rungs of a fence, or the suspension cables of a bridge. Repetition can, of course, also be found in other locations and structures and is often used to make the picture appear as if the object will continue forever. Understanding how to use these forms of repetition is critical to produce an abstract-looking photo.

Method. The key to achieving a pattern-focused photo is to zoom in close enough to the pattern so that it fills the frame and makes the repetition seem as though it's bursting out (even if the repeated object stops just outside the frame of the photograph).

Variation. Though repeating the same or similar objects over and over within a photo makes an image abstract, this technique can be furthered still by throwing in an outlier to the pattern. For example, if the photographer has chosen to photograph a scene of transparent blue marbles, he may decide to throw in a red one to create a break in the pattern. In doing this, the viewer still notices the repetition of the marbles, but his attention is drawn to the signle red one, giving the photo a sense of isolation or individuality.

Rule of Thirds

The "rule of thirds" is possibly the most well-known of all photographic techniques. Defined simply, it is a guideline stating that dominant points of interest in a photograph should be placed outside the center of the frame placed outside the center of the frame to make it more interesting. The center is determined by diving the p hoto into thirds both horizontally and vertically, as indicated by the red lines in Surf Time (right).

Importance. Understanding the rule of thirds is essential for producing an appealing photograph as it allows the eye to take in the entire scene, rather than the subject alone. It is the basis for taking well balanced shots. The rule is used in a way that strikes a balance between the strongest element in the frame and the open areas, which will usually lead to a more successful image.

Method. Taking a photograph that follows the rule of thirds is very easy. The best way to start is by imagining the frame as being broken down into thirds so that there are nine parts. When taking the picture, place the subject of the on one of the four intersections (commonly referred to as the "sweet spots") or along the four "lines" of the grid. In doing this, the viewer will interact with the photo more naturally and find it more appealing than if the subject were awkwardly placed in the center of the frame.  (See Happy Traveler, right).

Variation. Although this photo concept discourages the placement of the main subject in the picture's center, this rule can be broken in special circumstances. For instance, the photographer may choose to put something in the foreground that is blurred and the main point of interest clearly focused in the middle ground of the imaginary grid. Doing this will avoid boring image placement without following the rule of thirds.

Silhouette

Silhouettes have been used since the early 1700s to portray distinguished profiles of people. Though they were not created photographically at this time (but rather with drawings and paper cutouts), silhouettes have become very popular in photographic composition today. A silhouette is essentially an outline that appears dark against a light background, creating a dramatic photograph.

Importance. Silhouettes allow the photographer to communicate drama, mystery, mood, and emotion to his viewers. The simplicity of this type of photo makes the subject stand out against the light background and often conveys a story. Because the details of the subject are obscured by the shadow of the light source behind it, the viewer can imagine what he or she thinks the photo is actually revealing. This alone makes the silhouette a fascinating work of art and one that will immediately attract attention when contrasted with other photographs in an album.

Method. The best way to take a silhouette shot is to place the shape you want to be left in shadow (or blacked out) in front of the light source. The sun is a very common light source when shooting silhouettes as its setting or rising highly impact the drama of the picture. After placing the subject, the photographer must then make the camera set its exposure according to the background (or the light part) of the frame, rather than the main subject of the photo. Doing this correctly will result in a very dark subject, if not black. It is important to choose a strong subject that will be identifiable once black since color and texture will not be visible and therefore useless in characterizing it. Also, the camera flash must be turned off so as not to illuminate the subject which is intended to be black.

Texture

Texture in photography pertains to the surface character of an object as portrayed in a photograph. This concept primarily explores the appearance and/or (in)consistency of a surface or specific object. Various textures are often placed side by side to emphasize them even further.

Importance. This photographic concept is used to emphasize the features and details in a photograph in order to create form. Texture gives realism and character to the picture and customarily adds a three-dimensional look and feel to a two-dimensional object. Proper use of texture can greatly impact an image and be more powerful than radiant colors, clever composition, or dramatic landscapes.

Method. Texture in photographs can be executed in several ways, but there are really no rules or steps to achieving this type of image. Different lighting scenarios or slight changes in camera angle can improve the depiction of texture in a photo, and clever use of color and contrast can also bring out the various textures of an object.

Variation. Photographers can use texture to pull off a variety of effects. The three main types of texture photography are for detail, drama, and information.

Texture for Detail. In this type of texture photography, the object's surface detail is the most important characteristic of the picture. The object itself is, interestingly, not as important as the textural detail. This particular technique is usually construed through the use of stark color contrast in order to enhance the detail of the texture.

Texture for Drama. The texture is not entirely the most important element of the image in this type of texture photography. Instead, it is one part of the image that serves to vitalize the photograph as a whole. In addition to color contrast, this technique requires side light to bring out the texture and intensify the drama of the picture.

Texture for Information. This technique is used to convey information about the image. The photograph must be composed in a manner that will emphasize the desired message. A prime example would be to photograph the cracking paint of a door to reveal its age.

Top Down (Bird's Eye)

Top-Down photography, often referred to as "Bird's Eye" photography, is the special technique of capturing photographs from an elevated location in which the viewer apears significantly higher than the subject. This approach got its name because photographs taken in this way generally look as though they are from the point-of-view of a bird flying over the subject.

Importance. Bird's eye photography is typically used to show a very large landscape or subject that is rarely seen from an aerial angle. This type of photograph can inspire the viewer seeing as it provides a stunning view of our surroundings that differs from that from which we usually see things. Such photographs, if taken from a high enough distance, can also be used to advance geographical awareness and/or in the creating of topographical maps.

Method. More often than not, bird's eye photographs are taken from airplanes or helicopters because they provide exceptional views of the earth below them. However, photos are taken on numerous occasions from the tops of tall buildings, mountains, canyon cliffs, and even waterfalls. For example, The Lincoln Memorial was taken from the Washington Monument. Furthermore, aerial photographs can be taken in special circumstances such as skydiving, parasailing, or hang gliding, but these scenarios are far less common. As far as camera mounting goes, some photographers may choose to fix their cameras to a stable structure, while others may decide to take hand-held pictures.