To Prepare For This Assignment: Review The Jonathan Jones Ar
To prepare for this Assignment: review the Jonathan Jones article from this week’s Learning Resources. Consider the effect of composing photographs using the fundamental principles of photography you have studied in this course. Consider the purpose of having a process and intent when composing photographs for the viewer. Review the examples of photographs demonstrating fundamental principles of photography you have produced for this course. Reflect on the changes you have seen in your own photographic style.
For this assignment, you are required to write a 2- to 3-page paper analyzing how the fundamental principles of photography influence your communication of messages or stories. You should assess how these principles shape your perspective of your community and the world. Furthermore, reflect on how your approach to photography might evolve after completing this course. Consider which photographic skills you have improved since the course began, providing concrete examples to illustrate your progress. Additionally, incorporate at least one reference from the course readings to support your insights.
Paper For Above instruction
Throughout this course, my understanding of the fundamental principles of photography—such as composition, balance, contrast, and focal points—has profoundly influenced how I communicate stories through images. These principles serve as a visual language, allowing me to craft photographs that convey clear messages and evoke specific emotions in viewers. For instance, I have learned to utilize the rule of thirds to direct viewers’ attention effectively, making my images more engaging and purposeful. An example from the course resources illustrates how careful composition can enhance storytelling, which I now aply consciously in my work (Jones, 2023).
Prior to this course, I often took photographs spontaneously without much thought about how composition impacts message delivery. Now, I approach each shot with intent and awareness of how the arrangement of elements can influence perception. This shift has enabled me to view my community and the world with a more critical eye. I observe the interplay of light and shadow in my local environment, noticing how they shape the narrative of a scene. For example, I captured a community park at sunset, employing leading lines and framing to emphasize tranquility and community spirit, demonstrating the practical application of principles learned.
One of the most significant skills I have strengthened is understanding light and how it defines mood and focus within a photograph. Learning to manipulate natural light, such as shooting during the golden hour or using backlighting, has dramatically improved my ability to create compelling images. Additionally, I have become more deliberate in selecting focal points to ensure the viewer's gaze is directed to the most important part of the story. These skills have refined my photographic style, making my images more thoughtful and impactful.
Reflecting on the impact of this course, I realize that my approach to photography will continue to evolve. I plan to experiment more with different perspectives and techniques to deepen the storytelling potential of my images. Furthermore, I aim to explore digital editing tools to enhance my photographs while maintaining authenticity. My expanded understanding of composition and light has empowered me to view my environment not just as a passive observer but as an active creator of visual narratives.
In conclusion, the principles of photography have become integral to how I communicate and interpret my surroundings. They serve as tools for storytelling and reflection, allowing me to connect more deeply with my community and the broader world. As I continue to develop my skills, I am excited to see how my photographic voice will grow, guided by the foundational principles I have learned in this course. This enriched perspective will undoubtedly influence both my personal projects and my contributions to my community’s visual story.
References
- Jones, J. (2023). Fundamentals of Photography: Principles and Practice. Learning Resources.