TAOP Positioning a point.

I am now moving on to the second part of TAOP. This first exercise is about how positioning a point within the frame can alter the movement, balance and division of the image as a whole. To be classed as a point, the subject must be small within the frame and in some way contrast with its surroundings.

Objects that could be classed as a point:

·         Flower in a field

·         Hot air balloon in the sky

·         Tree

·         Sculpture

·         Plane or birds in the sky

·         Boat in the sea

·         Animal in field

·         Duck on water

I have started by reviewing my previously taken photographs to see if there are any points that clearly stand out and found that my images tend to show the focal point in the centre of the frame. I have then gone on to take photos specifically for this exercise.

For this exercise I used a sculpture by Barbara Hepworth which can be found at Snape Maltings. I have converted the images I took into black and white which had been suggested in the course notes. This allows me to focus on the point rather than looking at the contrast between the colours shown in the photos.



Central position









This is my least favourite image. I feel that the positioning does not work with the sculpture in a central position as is looks very static and uninteresting. The point looks rather flat and does not particularly stand out very well.



Positioned close to the edge of the frame

Having walked around the sculpture to change the composition I have realised that placing the point where I have, near the edge, encourages the eye to wander around the frame searching for other subjects. I do like the the detail of the grass in the foreground but it does detract from the point somewhat.



Off centre to the right



The position of the point works better in this photo. Having the sculpture slightly off the centre point creates more depth and is definitely my composition of choice.

Conclusion.

From this exercise I have learnt that positioning the point can dramatically alter the sense of movement in the image, as having just the one focal point naturally divides the frame. By positioning the point in the centre of the frame, the overall movement is affected creating a static nature (although in some instances this can work if justified). In some photos having the point close to the edge of the frame does not work as it can detract from the point and unbalance the frame, whereas in other images it can help to convey more of a scene. I have realised from working on this exercise that I am guilty of positioning a single point in the centre of the frame, usually so that it fills the frame, and therefore creating rather a dull image.