Why it Works

There are many elements that come together in photography to form an overall image that “works”. It’s is the understanding why it works, and application of these things that will make a piece of art from a scene instead of it being a simple snapshot! I am often annoyed by frustrating comments from non-photographer friends or family claiming “I could easily take a photo like that if I had a posh camera like yours”. I’d be lying if I said that a good quality camera or lens makes no difference at all. But trust me, it is only a very small part of creating a successful image.

Elements like composition, colour, emotion and light all work together to add interest and enhance your work. For this reason it is important to be mindful when shooting rather than just clicking randomly. Taking that extra time to pause, even for a moment, to assess the scene as you compose your image will truly add that extra dimension.

Let us look at a few examples and break down why each image “works” and the creative choices I made before capture.

The Analysis

Image 1 – Why it Works

This image is packed with compositional elements. Aside from the scale element showcasing how tiny my subject is in a vast frame, I chose to frame her with the pillar on the left. This also adds depth and layering to the image. The use of leading lines (the wall) draw your eye to the subject. The reflections in the water create symmetry and repetition of shapes. My daughter’s arm mirrors the shape of the bamboo structure, which further acts to balance and strengthen the frame. The pop of colour acts as an anchor for your gaze and makes the overall image pleasing to look at. Some of these elements were considered at the time of shooting and some in post processing.

Image 2 – Why it Works

In the following example, you can see how I used repetition, shadow play and leading lines to draw the eye to the subject. Clothing was chosen mindfully with a pop of my signature red to complement the green backdrops I knew we would encounter on our outing. I used a rule of thirds composition to balance the frame. It’s the emotion here though that takes centre stage, with the other elements taking a supporting role. This really strengthens the image and we get away with facial shadows even in tricky full sun conditions.

Image 3 – Why it Works

Here I consciously used an analogous colour palette, planning my daughter’s outfit to link in with the autumnal scene. The use of pre-planned props such as the umbrella give your subject something to interact with and give you a chance of natural expressions and emotions rather than staged poses (“say cheese”)! I ensured I checked for directional light and used this to add a 3D quality, adding definition and tone to the image. Framing my subject with the trees helps to direct the gaze. I chose to add an overlay of leaves to this in post processing. This further strengthens the image by adding depth and movement.

Image 4 – Why it Works

In this image, a triadic colour scene of red, blue and yellow promotes balance and harmony within the frame. It also evokes a sense of fun. Again, I carefully selected props of wellies, umbrella and rubber ducks! The composition here of 8×10 is perfect for social media and a rule of thirds gives plenty of breathing room around the subject. Using the leading lines of the path directs our gaze leaving zero confusion as to who is the star of the show. In this case, the high walls create beautiful directional light giving the scene dimension and form.

The full length shooting video of an outing with my family where we captured many images and discuss them in detail is included in my course “Immersed in Nature”. So if you would like to delve deeper into the art of “Photographing your Wanderlust Child” interacting with natural elements both indoors and outdoors, check out my course newly re-released as a mini in the Hello Storyteller academy. You will learn how to use light, composition and colour to strengthen your images. We will talk about how the balance wrangling your children whilst keeping a clear head as well as discussing practical details to consider whilst exploring and how to edit your images with non-cooperative subjects. We will then explore where to go for unlimited inspiration in all weather conditions.

Find out more on all of these things in my Mini Course, Immersed in Nature: Photographing the Wanderlust Child!

For more inspiration, follow Samantha on Instagram!