Elements of Composition- Color

Hello, Volks, welcome to Hohenfels Volks. I hope everyone is having a decent week. The weather on Monday and Tuesday was excellent getting out and shooting some pics weather. Even in this time of shorter days and less time to get the shot you want, you can still get one or two that will make you feel good.

Today we’re doing a quick post on one of the unexpected elements of composition. We’ve talked about chiaroscuro and shadow, and subject placement. There are general guidelines for most situations. Today we’re going to talk a little about using light and color to bring in your viewer.

As you can see in the photo below, there is a lot of shadow in the right side, set for zone 3 at best, which amounts to a lot of unused space. At least it would seem that way.


I shot this photo on a little side road about 15 to 20 KM from Hohenfels.
ISO 400, f/11, 1/40

By leaving so much in deep shadows, it really makes the light streaming in from the left pop out and creates almost a set of diagonal shafts crossing through into the road. It also amplifies the magnificent autumn colors of the trees and the shaft of light green grass. The blend of greens and oranges just makes it seem to jump out from the woods and the shadow.

Pick out a color in a scene and try to find one that either complements or contrasts your chosen color for an extra bit of eye drawing appeal. This even works in black and white, only instead of showing the colors, it creates tones and textures that will pull the viewer in. Remember color is a major part of your composition!

Keep your eyes open, walk around, and believe in your abilities. That will bring home some keepers and treasures, and isn’t there so much around Hohenfels that we can find to treasure? Remember to share your pics and post your questions at the Hohenfels Volks Facebook page, and or by commenting here!