The secret to a good photograph is that it is a story complete in itself. You have the hook, which draws the audience in, and the entirety, which keeps them thinking about it even if its not in front of them any more. Thats why in photography, the background is as important as your subject. It denotes the context of your photo, and provides valuable information on how the story develops. For example, in portraiture, take a picture of a person holding a dagger, in two different backgrounds. If taken against a black background, it signifies hiding in the shadows, about to take the offense. On the other hand, a brick wall background paints the story of an individual cornered, and the dagger to be used in self-defense. In food photography, it is important to keep your background clear so as to focus on the element of the dish to be photographed. In nature photography the same holds true; to isolate the element in relation to its surroundings. Backgrounds also figure prominently not only in the arts but in the social sciences as well. In terms of psychology, the background of a person will lend you a peek into the persons history, and will enable you to delve into the psyche deeper for a more comprehensive understanding of his personality and character. Even in the law, any specific case must be pinpointed in its historical and sociopolitical timeline, to provide a backgrounder of how the decision of the Court came to be. Ordinances, rules, regulations and legislation must all be understood in context, so as to be applied properly. Thats why in every aspect, never forget the importance of the background. It may seem negligible, oftentimes the forgotten and blurred part of the picture, but to understand its nature and to use it to your advantage both as a photographer and a social being is to gain power over your audience and enrapture them in both beauty and cunning. -excerpt from Photography Zen: The Philosophy of Photography Chad Osorio 2025
Posted on: Thu, 11 Sep 2014 15:44:59 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015