Rule of Thirds

I took this picture of my friend Chelsey and tried to portray the rules we discussed in class. I let Chelsey be the focus of the picture but she is a little off center and most of her would be in the far right third of the picture. I think that makes the picture more interesting to look at it. Even before I learned of these rules, I usually take pictures of friends like this because I think it more appealing to the eye. It was interesting to find out it is an actual rule that we are supposed to follow when taking pictures. My eyes were aware of a rule that I hadn't yet learned.  I also tried to allow her dominant eye to be at an intersection. I like that she is the main focus of this picture and her surroundings compliment her!

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Gestalt Principles

 

Law of Similarity- group similar things together
Law of Proximity- group things close together. They tend to be perceived as a group.
Law of Pragnanz- reality is put to its simplest form.
Law of Closure- objects grouped together are seen as a whole.

Contrast, Harmony and Balance

As we were discussing Contrast, Harmony and Balance in class, I had multiple pictures come to mind. I loved the pictures we viewed in class and the elements discussed within them. I chose this picture because of the intriguing elements within it, this pictures has it all. The man in the picture is my fiancé Greg and it was taken in Gustavus, Alaska last month.

We were out adventuring and came across this abandoned dock with a breathtaking view. This picture is captivating to me and it exhibits the elements we discussed in class. I love the contrast in the picture. Starting off with size, there is such a large difference between the size of Greg and the dock as a whole. As I look at the enormity of the dock compared to him, it appears the depth of the dock may consume him. There is contrast due to his position at the front of the dock, it appears as it could go on forever after him. I love the differing textures with in this picture. There is stillness in the water because it is landlocked and doesn’t get any waves from the open ocean. If you look closely you can see the details of the weathered wood of the posts and the dock itself. I love my fiancé but it does appear that his presence on the dock isn’t right and is a contrast in and of itself. As I look at the picture it feels almost as though he is interrupting the stillness and ambience there.

There are so many areas of balance within this picture because of the symmetry of the lines within it. I love the wood posts of the dock and how they make your eyes automatically go backwards. When I look at the dramatic lines I feel peace because of their symmetry. My eyes quickly go to the reflection of the trees in the water and the perfect symmetry present there.

There is a great sense of tranquility at this spot and I believe it is evident in this picture because of the harmony that is present. The colors in this picture exemplify the true Alaskan beauty. The almost teal water color, worn down wood and tall green trees are all breathtaking and relieving. The different color contrasts seem natural and go together. There is harmony in nature that I believe man cannot recreate it. I felt that harmony in this spot and continue to as I look at this picture. The shapes and lines are sharp and dramatic but there is harmony in the way the repeat throughout the frame.

            To add a bit of context to this picture, I would like to add that this picture was taken the day after Greg proposed to me. This picture is so special to me because of the timing of it. I love the beautiful surroundings and I love Greg because he has truly made my life more beautiful.

This picture also possesses a lot of Gesalt principles. The law of similarity is evident with the similar wood and poles on the dock. The law of continuity is evident as your eyes are drawn to the back of the picture. I believe each one of the principles in a way are evident there is some way but these two are most dominant in my eyes in this picture. 

Visceral Response

In a fast paced and ever-changing world, I find comfort in things that are constant. For as long as I can remember I have looked up to and idealized my Grandparent's relationship and the loved they've shared. My Grandmother was someone who believed in all my dreams and I could share my greatest fears with. She was my comforter and best friend. She was nurturing, loving and would take care of a complete stranger. My grandfather was always a little rougher around the edges but has such a good heart. They truly loved each other and were together 65 years.

In summer 2013, my Grandmother became very sick and for the first time in her life; she need someone to take care of her. I took this photo August 22nd, 4 days prior to the day that my grandmother passed away. I still get emotional when I look at this picture. Whenever I look at this picture I see the pure charity that was shared between these two. I added the black and white filter and turned up the contrast, which I believe adds rawness to this photo.I love the lines of their faces and the shadows that are present. I think their is a tenderness in this photo because of the kiss and their obvious elderly age.

The lines on my grandmother's face, present because of many laughs shared with loved ones. Her gray hair represents many beautiful years lived. The smile on her face because he is there beside her. His kiss which is so gentle and soft. My grandfather's whiskery face is evidence of the previous days were he didn't spend a single moment thinking of himself, only of her well-being. I see so much emotion in this picture and it truly tells a story on it's own. This photo represents their love and their legacy and that is why I consider it beautiful.