Project: Using lines in composition - Exercise: Implied lines.

We are to start by looking at these two photographs and find the implied lines in each.

We should then find three photographs of our own and perform the same analysis.

Photo 1.

There is clearly an implied line following the path through these trees.

Photo 2.

You can see an implied line as the geese move from one side of the frame to the other.

Photo 3.

On this example the lines of the building and perspective act as the implied lines drawing your attention along the diagonals.

For the third and final part of the exercise we are to plan and take two photographs using:

• an eye-line

Here there are eye-lines from the two people on the right looking in a shop window and the girl on the left who appears to be staring at her feet.

• the extension of a line, or lines that point.

Here the more dominant, curved line of the gallops extends through the frame drawing the eye up to the trees. The dog walker emphasises the line as he moves in the same direction.

Conclusion.

• Implied lines can be used to encourage and control the way in which the viewer's eye will be directed through the frame.
• The more dominant a line, the more active the image feels.
• I think that the eye-line is the most powerful kind of implied line as it creates a stronger image.