In my last post, I used an acutely simplified image to clarify how I usually compose. Needless to say, the world is generally more visually complicated than three lines converging, especially when the basic shapes contain differing tones, patterns, lines and textures. When color is added to the mix, the potential for further chaos becomes even more elevated.
So the question arises, does composition get modified by any these factors? My answer is far from definitive; kind of/sort of/it depends. Generally my answer would be to stay with the approach outlined in Blog #1, but in two cases, you might want to consider adjusting your composition to some degree.
The first case, is the situation where the internal geometries inside the basic shapes are very active, and begin to conflict or overwhelm the shape, or the visual flow of your primary subject. If this is the case, you might use the general flow of the interior geometry as the basis of your composition. The rule of thirds is still in effect, but a minor shift left or right or up or down may give the photo more of a sense of visual balance. The photo above of rotting flowers demonstrates this by slightly reducing flower size and showing more of the green stems of the flowers.
The second case, is a little more problematic to adjust for, and in a later blog I will develop this idea further, but I want to at least note it for right now. Saturated warmer tones; reds, oranges and yellows, can really influence/distort perception of actual size, especially in the presence of white, darker gray or black backgrounds.
For now the issue is the world is visually complex, and we need to always keep that in mind when we are taking photos.
