Photographer and author Tim Grey argues that sometimes the difference between getting a good picture and a great picture can be as simple as taking a few steps to the right. His PIX 2015 talk highlights 13 smalls changes photographers can make that can add up to some huge improvements in their photos. From careful attention to composition and timing to getting off of the beaten path, his talk offers some excellent advice for photographers of all skill levels.
Nice presentation. Well organized, very relaxed speaking. Do I like each and every one of his images. No, but I don't think that is the point. I got the most out of this by (1) listening to what he is saying (2) not by focusing so much on his images, but (3) thinking of my own images in my mind and how they could have been better. Now I go back into my catalog and look at my images with a different eye. Now I go back out with my camera, and try to remember what he said, not what he showed.
I disagree with the presenter's example of point #2 (the "Space Needle" image. In fact the typical approach has the effect of telling a linear story that is first dominated by the the foreground in the left, and then from there, your eye is progressively drawn from the top of that building all the way right across the frame in a vigorous arc. It matters neither here nor there that there is a building behind the space needle - after all it's a depiction of urbanity on that side and this is actually enhanced by the jumble of buildings
In contrast, the presenteed recommended approach to framing the scene results in a more static image. The space needle is not as strong a focal point and the arc that your eye naturally follows is more shallow, less dramatic.
So IMO I think the "default" framing is actually spot on.
When I hear you talk, i imagine a different picture, one much more telephoto, where the Space Needle 'creeps' into consciousness beyond the magnified tops of buildings. Focus depths and distractions like clouds might enter the picture.
In the lecture's shot framed as it is, I think that Tim Grey made an excellent point, and that his revised placement indeed much improves the image.
Critique can always have different views, can't it...
Meh...kinda average MOR spiel. Very generic images and in this day and age, why not present images that fill the WHOLE screen in the 16:9 format. 4:3 doesn't cut it!
Talks like this are good to help remind us to not get into a rut. Change things up. I liked what he had to say. Also really want to drive cross state and go to the Palouse!
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