I just found this photo over at the PhotoTuts blog where it was being used to demonstrate the effects of a Photoshop Action. Photoshop Actions are a subject for a different day. Here I want to take a closer look at the composition of the image, and how it is compelling even though it breaks the rule thirds by placing the focal point in the center of the image below.
As we know, the rule of thirds suggests that we divide the image into thirds so we get nine equal squares. Then we avoid placing the subject in the center of square. This is so the viewer’s eye is led through the image to notice all the parts that make up the photo. When the subject is placed in the center, the eye just lands there and do
esn’t have a reason to move around and look at the rest of the image.
In the case of this image, the tree is smack dab in the center of the image. Does that mean it is a bad photo? No. Is it a great photo? Likely not. Would you hang it on your wall? Well, I might. Why? I love the light, and the solitary tree.
But there’s more. Even though the tree is the main subject, the dirt path leading to it it also a key element. It literally leads your eye to the tree. So, even though the main subject is in the middle, in this instance the leading line of the path gives the image the dynamic energy that makes it compelling.
As the saying goes, “rules were make to be broken.” In this instance, I think I agree. What do YOU think? Post a comment and let us know how you would have composed this image.
I find this picture a little disturbing. I don’t feel comfortable looking at it. It is the placement of the tree that is not appealing to me. I would have put the tree more to the right of center. The colors are great but the tree really bugs me so I would not look at the picture any more that I’d have to.
Wow Marilyn, I didn’t expect this answer! LOL But, your response vividly demonstrates how subjective composition can be. Your mention that you would prefer the tree be off to right a bit more tells me that composition is something you do by instinct. Great! This is a touch skill to master, but really makes a bit difference in the final image.
Thank you for the comment…
the tree kinda falls in the lines of rules of thirds, BUT the path makes it a nice picture to break the rules in which I feel need to be done sometimes. nice photo.
Yes, BJ, that was my thought, as well. Breaking rules is sometimes necessary. The tree is in an odd place and wouldn’t work at all for me if the road leading to it were not such a large element in the image.
Thanks for the comment!
The tree is almost in the center of the frame. The dirt path with its ruts, the grass shadows on the path, the fence posts all are sort of in the bottom third. (Are you not allowed to cross over the demarcation line a little bit?) Also, the clouds radiate out from the top of the tree are in the top third. I like the photo and want to know what is over the hill.
Deborah, you are allowed to do whatever you would like, when you are making your own photo. Put the tree right in the center if you wish. I can tell you see my point. By themselves, the elements would not have worked, but in this instance, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
Thanks for the comment.
I love the picture the way it is and I think that the path is what makes it work.
Thanks for posting a comment, Bev. I see we think alike on this one.
This picture works in it’s simplicity. It allows your eye to travel up the road, and the tree is a natural feature of the landscape. I think it fuels your imagination as to what lies ahead. Rules are guidelines and beauty is in the eye of beholder. I like it.