Integrate Colour and Design Theory CUVDES04B
Taught by Benjamin Walton
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
CUVDES04B
Cover for the first bauhaus journal 1926
Taught by Benjamin Walton
Paul Outerbridge Triumph of the Egg 1932
U B D C R C V T T S L
nity. Characteristics, associations and meanings.
alance. Characteristics, associations and meanings.
ominance. Centre of Interest. Framing the Picture. Placing the Subject.
ontrast Characteristics, associations and meanings
hythm. Characteristics, associations and meanings.
olour Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings.
olume / Size. Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings.
exture. Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings.
one. Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings.
hape Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings.
ine. ( Points, Direction) Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings
Student class notes from the subject Integrate Colour Theory and Design Processes in response to a brief CUVDESO4B (UM10)
Acknowledgement to the teacher
Benjamin Walton 2011
Unity and Balance
Informal Balance
In class we discussed
is
the art of layout, and that
symmetrical
it is an art of balance
Unequal
which provides a sense of
asymmetrical,
stability + the right + wrong
peaceful more obvious
way of doing things. How
but more interesting than
to balance a photgraph
formal balance.
is not a mathematical formula but an instinct,
the
opposite
of
balance.
parts
are less
When unity is achieved:
we dont have to define
The individual elements
it, as it is intangible. Our
within a composition will
teacher said he has the
not
need to place objects
attention. The key theme
+
will
build
between
relationships those
objects
be
competing
be
for
communicated
more
clearly.
The
in his photography. The
design will evoke a sense
most balanced objects are
of
patterns, but then there is
organization.
no tension if the patterns are perfect, there is no zing in the photograph. We can add tension to the photo by varying the pattern.
completeness
and
Unity also gives elements the appearance that they belong together. When a composition has unity the design will be viewed as one piece, as a whole,
Symmetrical
Balance
and
not
as
separate
or reverse repetition, are
elements Using too many
when objects are on the
shapes and forms may
opposite sides of axis
cause
giving
confusing photo. A well
dignity,
discipline,
severity, regulation,
a cluttered and
organised
design
will
such as State Buildings,
be achieved by using a
Houses
Worship,
basic shape which is then
Old Banks + Insurance
repeated throughout the
Buildings (see photos).
composition.
of
Observations made on the following photograp
phs in classclass:
1. Garry Winogrand (American, 1928–1984) Staten Island Ferry, New York City, New York 1971, - Symmetry, straight down the middle a formality about it. Left + right top + bottom contrast is in the 2 people in the middle. 2. Yasuo Kuniyoshi by Arnold Newman, 1941 Balance with tones . Prominent Japanese artist. Balance with the shoulders level with the table. 3. General Dwight D. Eisenhower - Arnold Newman New York, 1950. Tight crop brings you directly into his gaze. Symmetry going on hand lined up with nose. Gazing down at us, the axis of the camera is below so he looks down. How he has used his hand which can dominate the shot, he’s clenched it to reduce the size. Shoulders line up with the mouth. 4. Eugene W. Smith’s - Tomoko Uemura in Her Bath. 1972. Minamata, Japan - Triangle shaped with side lighting. 5. Garry Winogrand-Rhinos-1963. 6. American Legion Convention, Dallas, Texas, 1964. Garry Winogrand. Shape centre of interest. 7. Karl Blossfeldt - Delphinium Larkspur. Tonal with no shadows. Side lighting. 8. Ansel Adams Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico 1941. Contrast in the sky texture in the foreground, line. 9.André Kertész - Les lunettes et la pipe de Mondrian, 1926. Tonal contrast, shape, light tones lead the viewers eye. 10. André Kertész - Martinique , 1972. Geometrical, abstract. 11. Josef Koudelka - Child - Portugal, 1976 . Light shape intrigue. 12. Symmetrical Balance gives a formal appearance, dignity. 13. Garry Winogrand - Francis Bacon 1963. Incredibly awkard positioning. Balancing the light tones left + right. His gaze pulling you one way + the road pulling you the other. The blacks are ramped up to Dmax. Textural feel in the road + the grass . 14. Chicago Insurance Building Symmetrical Balance gives a formal appearance. 15. Henri Cartier-Bresson. Washington DC. 1957.
Unity
Unity - Elements are arranged with consideration of several factors (known variously as the principles of organisation, principles of art, or principles of design) into a harmonious whole which works together to produce the desired statement – a phenomenon commonly referred to as unity. Such factors in composition should not be confused with the elements. For example, shape is an element; the usage of shape is characterised by various principles.
U
nity creates a sense of order. When a design possesses unity there will be a consistency of sizes and shapes, as well as a harmony of color and pattern. One way this is accomplished is by repeating the key elements, balancing them throughout the composition, and then adding a little variety so that the design has its own sense of personality. Learning to juggle the elements and principles in such a way as to achieve the right mix is a key to good design.
Unity occurs when all of the elements of a piece combine to make a balanced, harmonious, complete whole.
U
nity provides cohesiveness to your designs. It is what pulls the elements together. Elements that are positioned close to one another are related while elements that are farther apart are less related.
U
U
nity - Line - the visual path that enables the eye to move within the piece. Shape - areas defined by edges within the piece, whether geometric or organic Color - hues with their various values and intensities Texture - surface qualities which translate into tactile illusions Form - 3-D length, width, or depth Value - Shading used to emphasize form Space - the space taken up by (positive) or in between (negative) objects
nity looks at how close or far apart various elements on the page are to one another. The closer two elements are, the stronger the relationship is between the two elements.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
TONAL CONTRAST is the difference between the light and dark areas of the image and is one of the most powerful tools to define its centre of interest. A good example of tonal contrast are silhouettes. When the tones that comprise a picture are very close to each other in tonal value but lack many deep tones (e.g. black) or bright tones (e.g. white) the picture is said to have low contrast. As the tonal situation changes and pictures present more dark and light tones, the images exhibit higher and higer levels of contrast. Here are some facts about the human eye and what it makes of tonal contrast - Light areas advance whilst dark areas retreat - When looking at a picture the human eye catches the lighter objects in the scene first - Light areas look and feel lighter, dark areas look and feel heavier
COLOUR CONTRAST is the difference between cool and warm areas of the image. Colours may be of the same tone but still be opposite. To get a better idea of the colour opposites a colour wheel is useful. - Colour contrast works better with fewer and larger colour masses - The more vibrant the colours the more colour contrast - The more colours you introduce to the photo the more colour contrast will decrease.
With Michael Kenna’s photo we talked about the way he lets the viewer into the shadows and the use of both high and low contrast. Photographers often use highlights to get the viewer to look into the photo and this photo is particularly clever with the detail in the foreground. We discussed Alfred Stieglitz’s use of tone and that he had beautiful control of tone and contrast, and that his images were alomost impressionist and successionist. The Successionist movement would do all sorts of things with negatives, such as scratching them to achieve results. The tonal contrasts and shapes used in Elliott Erwhitts photograph here were noted in class Max Dupains Australia Square photograph was mentioned for its quality of building contrast with lines and tonal contrasts.
William Klein Macy’s 1954 Claustrophobic with eye lines going in different places and texture is very contrasted
Margaret Bourke Whites photo shows how Juxtaposition is often used in photography to set up a contrast in mood. In this case it is all black people on the breadline set against an opposing background which sets up a narrative where one image plays against another.
Thomas Hoepker Watching The World Change With this photo we discussed how easy it is to apply our own narrative to it and that it is a juxtaposition with people relaxing when the smoke rises in the background and at how the bikes make it look recreational against the tragedy of September 11. It asks questions but provides no answers. A “picture of truth and of falsity”.
Contrast - we talked about extremes, up + down, big + small, degrees of contrast, highlights + tonal ranges, low contrast withlots of graduation, + how we can use one or another to send a message. Rich black + clean white can be sharp, dramatic + they may sacrifice some detail, the viewer can fill in the gaps. There is a move in digital photography to use HDR. Gradual tonal variation are peaceful, restful + are sometimes high key. Contrast in mood is when the subject matter + the elements have something stand out against one another, an area of high contrast leads your eye to that point.
Robert Doisneau
Paul Outerbridge
Bistro at Arcueil, 1945.
Woman 1937
Is this image a post war comment showing the traditional way of life juxtaposing on high rise buildings behind with a lot of social commentary rolled int o the photo we can still read these subjects 70 years later.
Juxtaposition is often in the context of bringing out one mood against another, it is trying to get 2 images playing off each other. “For his time, Outerbridge was too advanced to be able to find broad public acceptance for his nude studies.
with
Claws
Alfred Stieglitz The Steerage - 1907 One of the greatest photos of all time. There is a class theme going on with the upper and lower decks, with a play of dark tones split into 2 with the gang plank and the white boater hat against the dark tones with strong implied lines. Famous because of the structure of the composition with all the vertical lines leading up and down, the tones plus famous for the social statement. Another example of juxtaposition.
R
hythm. Characteristics, associations and meanings.
Frequency/Rhythm When the distance between repeated objects is identical they create a frequency. When the distance is varied between several frequencies it creates rhythm. Repetition Anytime several objects share a characteristic, then a repetition is created. When more than one characteristic is shared then the dominant one is used to describe the repetition. Repetition helps create consistency and a design flow. Photo - Micheal Kenna - New York.
Stuart Franklin - 2005 - Niger
Radial - radiation is a formal and repetitive structure with structure units that are situated around a common centre. Rhythm - is one of those principals of taking a really good photo it is a simple and elegant tool and when deployed into the composition of your photograph, it creates a compelling picture. It sets a pace that’s dependable. When the distance between the repeated objects is identical, the repetition has an even frequency. When the distance between the objects varies between several given frequencies, the repetition has rhythm. Rhythym is ideal for stimulating and expressing emotions. Rhythm builds up an expectation, then if we break it we can introduce a spike in our photos and some tension or drama.
Fence posts there is an alternation between light and dark + repeated again. He has given us a starting point for this line with the post it gives a frame of reference of where to start, leading us off into the photo with repetition. - Photo - Ansell Adams fence posts
Repetition - is a systemazing process setting up a pace that’s dependable. Repetition of intervals can be regular or irregular. It has a persistent pattern of accents and intervals. When several objects with a single shared characteristic are arranged in a composition, the object has been repeated, even if other characteristics of the objects are different. When a multitude of objects has one particular feature in common, such as form or size, repetition is called form repetition, or sizes repetition respectively. When the repeated objects have more than one feature in common, the most dominant common feature is selected describe the repetition. Some of these quotes, but not all are from:Christian Leborg - Visual Grammar (2010)
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Peeking Through The Curtains Alex Majoli - Brazil 2004 With the Steve Reich how each how the it on top,
subject of Rythym some music by was played so that we may observe cell of the musice was repeated then composer takes another cell and puts therefore layering the cells, using 18 instruments and a limited number of chords being used, giving the rythym and “ u p p y downy” straight type of rythym, almost straight up and down. It starts soft, with a select number of notes, where he has given himself rythymic cells and manages to have them sound organic, because he has pared back all the elements, the analogy used to relate music to photographic techniques was very useful allowing oneself to experience the rythym aurally rather than visually. Steve Reich was recently called “... among the great composers of the century” (The New York Times). Mr. Reich's path has embraced not only aspects of Western Classical music, but the structures, harmonies, and rhythms of non-Western and American vernacular music, particularly jazz. In April 2009 Steve Reich was awarded the Pulitzer prize in Music for his composition 'Double Sextet' In applying the above technique we talked about paring back all the elements in our photos and letting it sing rythym, which is one of the principles of taing a really good photo, it is a simple and elegant tool. Rythym is a systematic process setting up a pace that’s dependable. Repition of interval that can be regular or irregular. It’s persistent pattern of accents and intervals is ideal for stimulating and expressing emotions. Repetition with variation sets up an expectation, then adds a spike to the photograph, by varying the expectation. Rythym is established but broken. Discord is the opposite of extreme to rythym and harmony is in between and combines the characteristics of both. Discord concerns all dimensions and is the maximum interval of shape and size. Discord is a combination of totally unrelated units and chaos is the total lack of order. Here we observe discord in this photograph by André Kertész - West 20 Street1943. Andrew Gonzales irregular shapes, gradation, crescendo
This photograph was discussed for the gradation in tones from light to dark with the dimunendo musical analogy applied to it as a reference and again the rythym of the lines in the photo by André Kertész - In the cellar 1948. Ballet Theater, 1947 Irving Penn Rythym built with the subject s and the spaces between them as well as the elements of the photographic and it’s repetition.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
ANDRE KERTESZ - Faรงades de Paris Rhythm is establised in this shot. We follow the line from left to right. Relationships are established with the shutters being opened and one is closed which breaks the rhythm. Interval plays a part in this photo CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Garry Winogrand
Horizon on angle gives sense of unease. The figures getting smaller give you a sense of depth
Margaret Bourke-White
American Woollen Company Lawrence, Massachusetts, 1935
Joseph Koudelka Watch 1968 Where is everybody in this photo?
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Margaret BourkeWhite Checking a grinding machine in a flour mill, circa 1939
Arnold Newman Jimmy Breslin Volume described with linear perspective, low view point camera axis just below belt, beautiful verticals + horizontals, The natural perspective makes you want to look there and by putting a foot on the timber, gives a
Irving Penn 1950 The Two Butchers
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Dominance. A composition can have areas with many objects or with few
objects. Areas with a large number of objects are not necessarily the most visually dominant.
D
ominance. Centre of Interest. Framing the Picture. Placing the Subject.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Scott Kelby employs a compositional technique known as the rule of thirds, which is loosely based on the Divine Proportion. Basically, it’s your camera’s view split into a nine-square grid with the idea that you position your subject at any point where grid lines intersect. As you can see here, this yields a more pleasing composition. The subject of this piece falls at the intersection of two grid lines and is also placed based on the Divine Proportion itself, which clearly defines this as a well-composed image. We discussed the The Divine Proportion is based on the ratio of one object to another as defined by the number 1.618033988749895. For example, if you take the length of a rectangle and divide it by its height and it equals 1.618 (etc.), the rectangle is called a golden rectangle because the lengths of its sides are in the golden ratio. The Divine Proportion is often represented by the golden spiral. This is the tool used by artists and sculptors to achieve remarkably accurate proportion and aesthetic composition. In the golden spiral, the ratio of the length of the side of each square to the length of the side of the next smallest square is in the golden ratio; the rectangles formed by the combination of squares are golden rectangles; and at every quarter-turn, the spiral gets wider by a factor of Phi. CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
In class we observed Henri Cartier Bresson’s images and it was mentioned that they were compositionally brillant. It is quoted that “he discovered that he had an eye for finding geometric shapes in everything. For Henri, geometry is the foundation of photography.”
The photographer Weegee was mentioned and that he developed his photos in the back of his car. He worked in New York City as a press photographer in the 1930s and '40s, by following the city's emergency services and documenting their activity of urban life, crime, injury and death.
The photographer Steve McCurry’s photo was shown. It was taken in Sri Lanka in the 1990’s. We talked about the shapes in this photograph and the way that your eye follows the lines in the photograph, together with the fact that colour plays a part in the photograph and that there is repition in the photo as well.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
We discussed the elements and principles of design, such as the rule of 3rds and the golden spiral. This technique appears to be deployed in the photo here with the fisherman. We also discussed the photo of the bent over woman below, as being the dominant subject in the photo. We also talked about subordinates, how they are necessary to allow the dominate subject to exert its supremecy, and that you need to consider the size of the subject relative to the background and how well it stands out against the background (contrast) to avoid a tonal merger. We talked about related and united forms where a group of objects combine together to function as either a related or united form. We use elements and principles of design to convey design within the composition of our photographs.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
We looked at Trent Parke’s photo above, his photos were shot mostly with a Leica camera. He has a centre of interest in mind. He says “I am forever chasing light. Light turns the ordinary into the magical.” It was mentioned to look at his book, “Street Life”.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Space. A composition
can have dense and open areas, this creates white space in the layout.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Analogous colours Colours next to each other on the colour wheel
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Annie Leibovitz photographs. This almost monochramatic photo of Cate Blanchette with the red highlights showing in the background gives it balance.
Annie Leibovitz photo of Bette Midler. The lighting is flat.
Cool complementary colours with warm tones in the skin, the lighter colours gift the photo a “lift�.
Monochromatic colours
Complementary colours Opposite on the colour wheel. We talked about the use of complementary colours in this Van Gogh painting Starry Nights, + how they intensify + enhance each other.
Annie Leibovitz photo a dramatic fashion photo. Almost monochramatic. The photographer is renown for her excellent use of colour.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Primary colours
Primary colors because they cannot be created by mixing other colors
Analogous colours
Analagous Colours next to each other on the colours wheel
Secondary colours
Colours next to each other on the colour wheel
Orange, Green + Purple.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
we discussed the photographers
• Margaret Bourke-White • Paul Outerbridge • Garry Winogrande • Josef Koudelka • Karl Blossfeldt • Max Dupain • Arnold Newman
CUVDES04B
Integrate colour theory
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Volume
is an empty space defined by surfaces, lines and points
V
olume Size. Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings. CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
V
olume Size. Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur sue mcarthur photography
T e x t u r e With texture you get a sense of texture with the tones in skin. There is man made textures, as
well as natural textures such as sand, bark. Use side lighting, for a bumpier textured look, and the more oblique the angle achieves this look. We talked about the Richard Woldendorp’s aerial photography, where he photographs landscapes from the air and achieves a sense of texture, such as the image below
T
exture. Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings
Alfred Stieglitz
Michael Kenna
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Texture. Nature, characteristics, associations
A two dimensional image become an almost three particularly comes into at interesting angles. Shot is the way that it highsurfaces. The roughness as the light cast small the midday sun. Sidesimilar impact High sun corrugated fence.
with the use of ‘texture’ can dimensional image. Texture play when light hits objects with the sun high in the sky lights texture on vertical of the walls is accentuated shadows along the wall in light and uplight can give a photos shown here in the
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
T
exture. Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings
Gilles Peress Mother and child, Iran 1979
sue
sue
Sue McArthur Textured Wall, Sydney 2011
Werner Bischof Rock formation, Switzerland 1943
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
T
exture. Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings
T
exture. Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings
sue mcarthur photography
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
T
one, nature, characteristics, associations + meanings, photographic tools + techniques used to emphasis tone.
T
one - we learned your eye goes to the light areas of a photo 1st, and that the dark gives strength. The photo implies mystery, intrigue, dignity and that silhouette is the simplest tone. Dark = suppression, negative moods, fear dignity, strength, whereas white is more inviting to the eye. We learned that side lighting is best for portraiture to give it form and character and that you can guide the eye + attract the viewers attention as the eye is usually attracted to the lightest tone and then the subject matter. Arnold Newman - Marcel Duchamp 1966 CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
T
one, nature, characteristics, associations + meanings, photographic tools + techniques used to emphasis tone.
Silver gelatin sepia tone photograph
Michael Kahn - Sailing Vessels - American Photographer & Environmentalist
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
T
one, nature, characteristics, associations + meanings, photographic tools + techniques used to emphasis tone.
The abstract black and white photos carry a unique element by casting a gray scale tone across the photos.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
T
one is intangible tion. Tone ings from whiteit may consist of with little or no areas against light method of adding dimension to a two-dimensional black-andwhite picture. The interaction of light against dark shades in varying degrees helps to set the mood of a composition. A picture consisting of dark or somber shades conveys mystery, intrigue, or sadness. When the tones are mostly light and airy, the picture portrays lightness, joy, or airiness. It was stated that it is best to put your
probably the most element of composimay consist of shadto-gray-to-black, or darks against lights grays. The use of dark areas is a common the feeling of a third
gradient from dark to light from the bottom to the top as in this example otherwise if you gradate from top to bottom there is a feeling of “falling down�.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
T
one, nature, characteristics, associations + meanings, photographic tools + techniques used to emphasis tone. A r n o l d Newman - Pablo Picasso - 1946 We discussed in class that lighter tones in a photograph give it a pleasant mood and that photos framed in white matt boards are more inviting + that black matt boards make prints look smaller. we discussed in class the effect of this image, we were drawn to the dark areas, wondering what was inside them + that the light was short in the day, where the shadows were + that it was a very good example of tone. That your eyes were drawn to the light + wondered where the people were headed. Paul Strand photographer Wall St. 1915
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
T
one, nature, characteristics, associations + meanings, photographic tools + techniques used to emphasis tone.
We discussed in class the need to be creative in the use of light, it was quoted about pushing exposure to the right. “Correct exposure is at least as important with digital capture as it is with film, but in the digital realm, correct exposure means keeping the highlights as close as possible to blowing out, without actually doing so. Some photographers refer to this concept as “Expose to the Right” because you want to make sure that your highlights fall as close to the right side of the histogram as possible. Raw Capture, Linear Gamma and Exposure” was written by Bruce Fraser
We talked about the importance of lighting that the fill light and the main light be away from the subject, to get a ration, and about the type, position, ration, control of shadows + tonal gradation of the background. It was also mentioned about neutral density filters, graduated filters, and what part they play in achieving toned photography
Trent Parke, the only Australian to make it into the Magnum Photographers, name was mentioned for his use of tone + light.
It was mentioned in this famous photo that there was not much shadow detail separation lewis morley christine keeler
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
To achieve the correct exposure for our tone photography we need to consider the following chart where Bruce Fraser talks about exposure and the need to push it slightly to the right.
The same linear processed capture with a tone curve appears normal.
This is the curve required to apply a gamma correction tone to the linear capture. After the tone curve, the histogram has a normal distribution throughout the image.
This means that if a camera uses 12 bits to encode the capture into 4,096 levels, then level 2,048 represents half the number of photons recorded at level 4,096. This is the meaning of linear gamma— the levels correspond exactly to the number of photons captured.
Linear capture has important implications for exposure. If a camera captures six stops of dynamic range, half of the 4,096 levels are devoted to the brightest stop, half of the remainder (1,024 levels) are devoted to the next stop, half of the remainder (512 levels) are devoted to the next stop, and so on. The darkest stop, the extreme shadows, is represented by only 64 levels—as shown above.
Raw Capture, Linear Gamma, and Exposure
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
N
egative Space - In a painting or drawing, the space around the object is just as important as the object itself. A good artist strives for a balance between the positive space (the object) and the negative space (background) around it. You have the object of your photo, and whatever else is left is automatically deemed negative space
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
N
egative Space
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
All curved lines which are soft but the image is strong we think because of the tone used in the photo
Elliott Erwitt Photographer strong pyschological lines across the photograph
Repetition within the photograph
silhouettes gives us distance
Isoceles triangle
Elliott Erwitt Photographer
Triangle reptition CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Triangle shape
The piano is a strong, harsh, linear, but very beautiful shape, that looks like a B flat. Igor Stravinsky - Arnold Newman 1946 In this portrait Newman uses a single light source and photographs from some distance. The piano dominates Stravinsky, who is sitting almost off the edge of the image, in a thoughtful pose.
Lines in triangle shapes are repeated throughout this photograph CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Elliott Erwhitt
-
USA. California. Hollywood. 1956.
Black + white - Solid Shapes - Abstract - Analysed
shapes in the above photo analysed for their composition
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
S
hape Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings. Photographic tools and techniques used to emphasise shape
Frame within a frame
Triangular shape between the arms
Portrait of German industrialist Alfried Krupp July 6, 1963 in Essen, Germany. (Photo by Arnold Newman Frame within a frame
The subject is probably sitting on about a third of the photo
Frame within a frame Only thing in focus is the subject in the frame
George Braque - artist - Normandy 1953 Photograher Robert Doisneau
strong verticals lead the eye to the subject Photographer Elliott Erwitt
Frame within a frame
Disconcerting photo with an impassive looking child with a rule of 1/3rds almost
Large basin for whites
repitition of shapes in this photo
subject almost cowering Uneasy feeling
repetition
This photo doesnt let you rest your eyes go back + forth across the photo
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
T
wo dimensional shapes - these play a part in photographic composition.
C
omposition refers to the two dimensional organization of the painting an overall pyramidal form.
O
voidshape
We discussed the composition of this photography with the strong vertical lines, the rule of thirds and the depth in the photography together with the tones used and the repetition in the photograph. Portrait of British artist David Hockney as he poses, hands in the pocket of his cardigan, next to one of his paintings, London, England, May 28, 1978. (Photo by Arnold Newman.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Actual triangles are somewhat rare to come by, however. Instead of looking for them, a triangle can be used more abstractly: to position your main and secondary subjects in the frame, or by using three subsidiary points of interest form a "frame" for your main subject.
Frame within a frame focusing the attention on the main subject
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
French poet, artist and filmmaker Jean COCTEAU. We noted in class if we organised our subjects in a photograph in such a way that there is a trianle between several subjects faces, that it is quite an elegant way to arrange a shot, and lead the viewers eye around the shot. Triangles are built from diagonals and are one of the strongest shapes.
Triangle Philippe Halsman"The Eternal Triangle". shape
The triangle
Is one of the strongest shapes - give you a sense of stability A triangle is a closed curve that incorporates at least one diagonal. Being closed, it won't lead the eye out of the frame. However, especially an equilateral triangle is a lot more static than a diagonal. By itself, and especially in the middle of the frame, it can lead to a static and boring composition. Sometimes triangular areas can make for unusual pictures, like this one, for example:
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
L
ine. ( Points, Direction) Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings. Photographic tools and techniques used to emphasise line.
We noted in this photo the triangular shape in the lighter area which then intersects down the vertical shop corner line and straight through the child in the photo. It is shot on an angle.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
This photo drew lots of discussion with the varying lines, again it was noted on wherever there is a human in the photo our eye is drawn to it. There are lines and curves. The curve of the road and the jagged steps add tension, and lead your eyes down the stairs to the road. The curvature of the road leads your eye down the road.
We discussed the effects of the line in this photo with its horizon line and vertical lines.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
It was mentioned in class that the intersection of vertical and horzon lines gives this image a sense of stillness and that the curved and diminishing line of the road, gave the image a sense of peace, that it was balanced and calm. In this photo we noted it was • balanced • had a sense of peace • had a sense of direction
Ansel Adams Tetons and the Snake River 1942
We noted on this photo that wherever there is a human in the photo our eye is drawn to it. Also the curved line in the centre of the photo
In our class lesson it was noted that line is a very primal thing and that we can use it in our compostion in photography and that every photograph must start with a principle feature in the photographers mind, which will be very important in our 2nd year photography assignments. It was mentioned that in a photograph, your eye usually follows to the right, and that even the borders of a photograph are a line, as is the horizon line. That we can alter our horizon line by making it lower in the photo, and that we can pull the viewer into the photo using line. Even a person’s stare in a photo can be used as line. Line has length position + direction, + can be vertical horizontal + diagonal.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
L
ine. ( Points, Direction) Nature, characteristics, associations and meanings.
sue mcarthur photography
sue mcarthur photography
There is a strong point of interest with the steel girder and a strong line going through the photo. We discussed to get the feeling of height look down on something – shoot from above to down below, as in the above photograph
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Windscreens
Windscreens assignment
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
S K E T C H E S Outerbridge
Micheal Kenna
Bill Brandt
Bill Brandt
Bill Brandt
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
Windscreens
Windscreens
assignment
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
With this photograph I have tried to employ the principles of Contrast together with the use of contrasting Colour. I have used primary colours and tried to attract the viewers eye with the light highlights in the upstand of the Ferris Wheel. I have also used the rule of thirds in the photograph by placing the subject on the third section of the grid together with the golden spiral falling onto the subject. The contrast between the blue and the red colours, is highlighted by the whites and light colours and there is a sense of anticipation with the possible movement of the Ferris Wheel. There are highlights in the tonal range graduating from light to dark in the sky. The clean whites are sharp giving the image a crispness. The area of high contrast in the wheel, leads the viewers eye to it in the first place, then you are left to explore the rest of the image, which with it’s contrasting background makes the subject stand out. One of the other types of contrast in this photo is the use of lines and sense of rythym which makes the eye follow the direction of the wheel upwards. The photograph has a feeling of simplicity about it and is distinct in it’s colours and has the same tonal range and density in the reds and the blues. There is a question as to which is dominant colour and which is the contrast colour. Red appears to be the contrast colour because of the predominance of the blue over a larger area. There is a mood set up by the photo as a result of the primary colours used and this makes it appear to be a modern subject rather than an olde worlde style Ferris Wheel, which may have been the case if different colours were used with a softer lighting. There is also contrasting shapes in the size of the Wheel as opposed to the carriages and the dominance of the object over the dead space on the page. I have tried to catch the viewers eye with the use of colours and contrast and for them to put their own narrative on the photograph based on memories of what Ferris Wheels represented to them. CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
In this photograph I have tried to employ the techniques taught in class, those of Balance, together with the principles of unity, line, tone, dominance + shape. The predominant subject in this photo is Balance. By using the rule of thirds and placing the objects on the third section of the grid, I then positioned them under the golden spiral, so it would direct the viewer to look at the subject matter (see examples below). The background and foreground are in contrasting colours, to give some balance to the photo and backdrop to add definition to the arrangement of rocks. The light tones used in the foreground helps to draw the viewer’s eye into the picture, whereas the dark background recedes. I have used the technique of selective focus to get the viewer to focus on the subject. I wanted to create a sense of simplicity within the composition so I pared back the subject matter, which added to the overall sense of balance. I then combined the subject with light tones to add balance, and tried to achieve a soft feeling to the photo, despite the objects being hard objects, which I feel added to the sense of balance. The balance in the photo was not only from the obvious physical balance but also there is balance because of the division of the foreground and background being on the “horizon�. There are tonal contrasts graduating from light to dark with the light areas advancing and the dark areas receding which also leads to the overall sense of balance. The dark area adds strength to the rocks to help set the balance . The composition has visually dominant objects which have been placed to become the centre of interest, again trying to achieve balance. I have tried with this monochromatic image to add interest by focusing on the different tones in the rocks to give the picture depth and interest. The polished texture of the objects adds a tactile sense to the picture. The two dimensional shapes are almost triangular in shape and the dividing line in the background it forces the eye to the foreground. There is unity in the photo with a sense of order. This composition has been used before in photographs, but I wanted to try the same technique and in doing so realised that the compostition combines most of the principles learnt in the subject Intergrate Colour and Design Theory.Unity also gives elements the appearance that they belong together. CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur
With this photograph I have tried to use the Fiobannci principals and the rule of thirds. I have tried to create shapes in the photograph by including rythym in the alignment of the plates by having repeating lines following a curve. I then tried to create shapes with the pyramid of salt in the foreground. I endeavoured to lure the viewers eye to the centre of interest, by the placement of the bowl of olives, and also by the use of tones and contrast and texture. The image was to convey an enlighted feeling with the use of high key photography. I also used the technique of adding texture to the photograph, by carefully placing props of lace and feathers together with the smoothness of the olives, and the granular effect of the salt. have learned to date in this course.
I hope that I have managed to encompass some of the elements of principals of design that we
The use of high key photography required careful exposure to capture the textured details and highlights in the photograph. This is not the photo submitted for the high key assignment, but produced as a result of learning about the Golden Spiral in class. Can you see the grid on the photo above? Practical Assignment - The use of Shapes, backed up by tone, lines, contrast + texture The elements that I chose was the use of Shapes primarily, with the repetition of the circular lines of the plates, following the principals of Fibonnaci. I then chose to intergrate those shapes with careful placement, looking at the various angles presented by the edges of the objects. The principals of unifying the image was by the use of tone together with the repetition of the objects. The use of subordinate objects in the same genre also helped to unite the overall photograph. The centre of interest, is the dark toned olives in the photo, firstly I think by the shape of the bowl in which they are placed, and also by using the rule of thirds for the positioning of the bowl. The viewer is attracted initially to the darker tone because of it’s positioning in the photograph and because of it’s color, then afterwards by the use of high key elements. I endeavoured to create an image that was pleasing to the eye by using the almost nautilus shapes of the bowls wrapping around the cup so that there was a flow to the image. I wanted to convey a sense of relief with the high keyed tones, together with a curiosty with the placement of the feather. I hope I have managed to convey some of the principals learned thus far in this course into this photograph above.
CUVDES04B Integrate colour theory and design processes in response to a brief (UM10) - Sue McArthur