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Mastering Photographic Composition and Visual Storytelling

Lesson 23 of 50

Elements of Design

 

Mastering Photographic Composition and Visual Storytelling

Lesson 23 of 50

Elements of Design

 

Lesson Info

Elements of Design

As you can see, I'm not actually in Marrakech, which is a shame. But anyway, take a look at this image. What do you see to a casual observer? It's a building, one more informed but still casual observer. It's a building associated with Muslim culture. For the slightly more observant, the flaking paint and water stains tell you it hasn't been renovated recently. Toe a photographer, however, is an object formed of the five elements of design, line, shape, color, pattern and texture. The building is in the main center of Marrakech. On when I walk past it. Of all the elements, line stood out, particularly the curved line of the main arch, which is created by the contrast of the white wall in the area of shadow. What I saw in that line was a stalk of grass spent over in the wind. Some might see a sickle. Others will see their own story to photograph my story. I framed the image to remove the windows, which were a distraction because they give the structure a context at odds with my abstract...

interpretation. Then to get rid of the texture of the wall, which again gives an unwanted context. I overexposed the light tones and then dark in the shadows in adobe light room. In the final image, we're left with abstract contrast ing lines. The vertical line gives the image strength and solidity, and it creates a boundary fixing the left side of the image space. The curved line is more delicate, representing the subtle arching of my imaginary lyft. No.

Class Description

WARNING: THIS COURSE CONTAINS ARTISTIC NUDITY

AFTER THIS CLASS YOU’LL BE ABLE TO:

  • Compose a shot consistently and effectively
  • Create artistic, powerful images quickly
  • Gain confidence in building narrative
  • Identify what stories you’re drawn to photograph
  • Brainstorm and develop concepts for creative shots
  • Trust your instincts when approaching a subject

ABOUT CHRIS' CLASS:

CreativeLive is partnering with Chris Weston to offer you his Complete Photography Master Course. This is the second class in the series.

Today, everybody has a camera, but that doesn’t mean everyone’s a photographer. Chris Weston will show you how to do all the other stuff – how to “see” an image, tap into your creativity, and compose a photograph that makes the subject look as good in print as it does in real life.

This class isn’t about cameras, it’s about you – the photographer. It will break free your creative mind, get you thinking about narrative rather than object, and show you how to apply simple artistic skills that turn that next click into a powerful photograph.

Learn how to approach photography like a pro and start creating great pictures straight away. With in-the-field lessons, case studies and powerful tips and techniques, you’ll quickly unleash your creativity and gain confidence in expressing yourself through your camera.

WHO THIS CLASS IS FOR:

  • Beginner photographers
  • First time DSLR or mirrorless camera users
  • Any photographer who wants to hone their artistic skills

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR:

Named one of the world's most influential wildlife photographers, Chris Weston takes a contemporary approach to photography. After launching his career in 2001, the Fujifilm ambassador's images have graced the pages of top publications like BBC, The Times, Outdoor Photography, Practical Photography, and Digital Photography. As a photography educator, Chris has written over 20 photography books, along with leading photo tours and online workshops.

Lessons

  1. Your 10,001st Photograph
  2. Camera Gear
  3. Piece of Gear We Always Forget
  4. Be a Storyteller
  5. Finding Ideas For Photography - Know Your Subject
  6. Cae Study - Why Are Zebras Black and White Striped
  7. Photograph What You Love
  8. See the Extraordinary in Ordinary Things
  9. Have an Opinion
  10. See With a Child’s Eyes
  11. Tell Your Story
  12. Find a Needle in the Haystack
  13. Lions Hunting Under Star Trails
  14. Ansel Adams and Visualisation in Practice
  15. Keeping an Open Mind and Thinking on Your Feet
  16. Case Study - The Maternal Bond
  17. Don’t Tell the Same Old Story
  18. Relevance
  19. #1 Reason Photographs Fail
  20. Getting Rid of Clutter
  21. Post Capture Cropping
  22. The Elements of Design
  23. Elements of Design
  24. Elements of Design - Shape
  25. Case Study - Shape
  26. Elements of Design - Color
  27. Case Study - Color
  28. Color in Camera
  29. Pattern
  30. Texture
  31. Seeing The Elements of Design
  32. Gestalt Theory
  33. Case Study - Cove
  34. Case Study - Hat
  35. Light and Contrast
  36. Light and Form
  37. Light and Depth
  38. Perspective
  39. Lenses and Perspective
  40. Rule of Thirds
  41. Centre of Frame
  42. Case Study - Positioning the Subject
  43. Positioning the Subject - Dynamic Symmetry
  44. The Horizon Line
  45. Should the Horizon Line Always be Straight and Level
  46. Other Lines
  47. Rhythm, Balance, and Visual Weight
  48. Negative Space
  49. The Two Most Important Controls on Your Camera
  50. Training the Mind

Reviews

Edmund Cheung
 

Perhaps the style of presentation and simple, short, and direct messaging does not "jive" with some; but others may really love this. Yes the production of each episode is stylized and perhaps a bit formal (like a TV Show?), but there is something to be said about it. Perhaps this is not meant for professional photographers? I think of myself as decent amateur / high level photographer. I found lots of great nuggets of wisdom and inspiration from this. Especially when I an in a rut for creativity. Yes I have heard all these concepts and ideas before. BUT it is always great to hear and see a different way of presentation and voice. Please do NOT take the naysayer reviews as the end all. You should judge for yourself and watch a few episodes. If the style and content click for you, I would highly recommend this course.

Kai Atherton
 

While I am perhaps more advanced in my photography then this course. It is always great to be able to go back to fundamentals and remind ourselves of the basic principles, and even camera function. I thoroughly enjoyed this course and Chris's other. It is a great motivational jumpstart when lacking fresh creative idea's.

Silvia Garcia
 

Excellent ! Will see it many times to digest all the messages here. Important info on composition theory. Very well explained. Go to the essence of photography. Thanks, Chris !