A topic of conversation that always comes up in my online classes with the BPSOP, and in my “Stretching Your Frame of Mind” Workshops I conduct around the planet, to always shoot both horizontally and vertically. For one thing, it will give you choices.
The majority of the images that I look at are horizontal, mainly because that’s the easiest way to shoot; also because the camera is designed to shoot that way.
How easy it is to merely bring the camera up to your eye, no matter what the subject matter is. I can tell you that way of thinking is not going to be in your best interest.
Horizontals are calming, as they mimic the horizon. They should be thought of when your subject is wider than it is tall, and it will move the viewer across the frame.
Using lines, both leading and directional is a good way to do this, and usually works best when you have a lot of space to do it in…as in a horizontal….it’s the way we perceive and process information.
Line is the most important of all the elements of visual design, and nothing could exist without it. Planes, trains, and autos…you and I included all have an ‘outline’. When composing, consider the lines. Your longest lines might be the best way to determine whether you should shoot one way or another.Moving the viewer around is a good way to keep him involved in your composition, and when he is he will stick around longer
Verticals have more energy because it will take the viewer longer to look from the bottom of your frame to the top. That time is energy, and energy can be equated to tension. Tension gives your photos strength and intensity.
Verticals are best considered when the subject is taller than it is wide. A vertical subject is going to have even more energy when composed in a vertical format. It will keep the viewer from sensing any extended peripheral vision that would be in a horizontal.
The best advice I can give you is to always try to shoot both ways, and compare them back home on your computer where you have time to really think.
Visit my website at www. joebaraban.com and check out any upcoming workshops at the top of this blog. Come shoot with me sometime.
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JoeB
