Triangles
This exercise was about producing triangular compositions. Graphically, there are more triangles than any other shape, and they can create an impression of dynamism or activity.
In the image on the left of the American war cemetery above Omaha Beach, in Normandy, I cropped the image below to focus on thetriangular composition. Although all three corners of the inverted triangle are actually beyond the edge of the frame, the triangular composition is strong. The two narrow triangles formed by the conifers in the background are a stronger element in the cropped image, and compensate the balance as they draw the eye upwards, whereas the apex of the inverted triangle draws the gaze downwards. |
The bottles in the image on the left delineate an implied triangle. Although the shape described and the subject matter are simple, the colours of the bottles and the light and shaddows add interest to the composition. In the image on the right, the triangle is produced by the brown bottle and the two apples. With hindsight, I should have removed the blue and green bottles, as they are a little distracting, and this would have made the composition neater.
The three photos below were taken during a drama workshop. The actors had to arrange themselves into a series of shapes on three levels, and their bodies often described implied triangles. The actors seemed to do this instinctively, as if aware that triangles made the most dynamic and interesting shapes. I like the subdued colours, as they do not distract from the composition - this, of course, was pure luck, as I had no control over what the actors would be wearing!