Photography Rules

 The Rule of Thirds 

The Rule of thirds is a guideline which was put in place and applied to the process of creating visual images. These can include; designs, films, paintings and photographs. The guideline suggests that the image should be divided into nine equal parts, placed by two equally spaced horizontal lines and two vertical. People have claimed that positioning the subject within these points can help to create tension, more energy and interest in the composition.

The image below is divided into 9 sections, the horizon of the image sits at the horizontal line on the third section of the image. The tree is placed at the intersection of the photograph and grid, this is also known as a crash point. Not all main focus points of the composition have to be positioned directly on the lines in order to take advantage of the rule of thirds. When preparing to take a photograph with the rule of thirds, it is important that you take into consideration the main focal points and put them as close as you can to the intersection lines, they don't have to be perfectly aligned just close enough, the process of taking the photograph using this method can take a little more time and thought however can help to create a better image. if you are unable to take the image with just picturing the grid, there is typically a grid within the settings of your camera or even iphone.

Leading lines 

In order to grasp the views attention, photographers use leading lines to create a specific point in the images hat they take. Leading lines are natural limes in an image that the audience would typically gravitate to when looking at an image, leading lines create attention to a certain point to lead to another point and some times even out of frame. Anything with  a definitive line such as; a fence, horizon, a bridge, road can grasp the views immediate attention. In order to create an image that uses leading lines in the correct way you need to understand how to properly utilise the leading lines. Placing leading limes paired with the subject so that they are arranged within the rule of thirds can portray a professional photograph which shows that the image is dynamic. in order to create symmetry within photographs it is important that both sided of the image a almost mirrored, creating two equal parts 

Symmetry and patterns 

In order to create symmetry within photographs it is important that both sided of the image a almost mirrored, creating two equal parts, so that both sided of the image are similar but its important to remember that they should not be the same. The two equal parts can be divided either vertically or horizontally, creating symmetrical photographs can create unanimity and harmony in an image and is much more aesthetically pleasing for the viewer to look at. There are many different ways to create symmetry within a photograph however the most common method is to just divide the image into, to create a sort of mirror or reflection within the image.

Pattern in photograph can either be man made or natural and refers to the repetition of something within the image. Pattern can be enhanced by thought provoking patterns that can be seen in graphic elements, like colour, shape, tones  forms and lines that are repeated on themselves within the composition.  Pattern can help to create highlights in photography and is used to isolate from the surroundings in the image. Applying the main focus of the photo to the pattern can portray endless repetition and can take distraction away from anything else from the picture.  

View point 

View point is a way of looking at something, in a photographers perspective the view point is what you are taking a picture of from the cameras perspective. All photographs have a subject or an area that they are taking a photograph of, when you see that subject that you wish to take a photo of you aim the camera in that direction and you take the picture, the view point is what you are aiming to take that photograph of, for an example if you were to take an eye level photograph of a person you would aim the camera at the subject so that their head is in the shot this image is taken both from the photographers and the cameras perspective and view point. The image below is taken from the perspective of a person looking down, the image was captured by tilting the camera down at an angle to show as if the photographer is looking down, this is his viewpoint.

Using the background 

The use of backgrounds in photographs is a tricky thing to master. They can be both man made and planned backgrounds or natural backgrounds ( outdoors, nature, unplanned). The fashion industry typically use colour as a background for their photographs as it can make the focus on the model stand out more, typically they use colours like white, grey or red.  Blurred backgrounds in candid photographs can also help to create the portrait of the subject in an image become the main focus. block colour as a background puts the main focus on the subject, where as if the background is already pretty busy it can be distracting and can take the focus away from the subject that you are taking a photograph of. 

Depth in photographs  

 Its pretty hard to create depth in photographs from turning a 2D image and turning it to give a 3D feel. The are many ways in order to portray depth in your images however there is no fixed rule in how to do it. Some of the ways to take photographs that show depth is to take photographs that show foreground interest, images of portraiture,  changing viewpoint, framing the scene, to use leading lines, changing angles and layering. 

Framing 

Framing is the technique of blocking of parts of the image so that the subject or image is the only focus, so that all of your attention is drawn to that particular part of the image. Natural framing if done right can create beautiful images that are elegant and captivating. Natural framing is when you use an element within your image to frame the subject in the image , framing can be created by a multiple of different things such as doors, windows, trees/branches, arches, tunnels and clouds. To take photographs with the appearance of frame work you just have to position the camera so that the subject is in the centre and the element that you are using to frame is around the sides.

Use of cropping 

Cropping is the process of removing the outer parts of an image to improve both the image and the framing of the photo. Cropping helps to accentuate subject mater and change aspect ratio, cropping depending on the application can be preformed on photographs, film and artwork. Cropping is an important technique in the editing process and if done right can portray the image in a interesting or compelling light. Nearly every editing soft wear whether that be for film or photography has a cropping tool and is very easy to use by dragging to the area you wish to crop or cut out of the image. hi xx xd

Experimenting shots 

Abstract photography, also known as non-objective photography is the type of photography that is both experimental and unplanned. This type of photography or type of shot, is a means of depicting a visual images that does not have any immediate association with the subject, but has been created though the use of photography equipment and use of materials. Abstract photography can isolate some fragments within a natural scene in order to remove the context away from the view. The purpose is to create an unreal perception from the real objects and can include the use of light, shadow ,texture and can convey a sensation or impression. 

Balancing Elements 

Balancing elements refers to the main subject within the photograph as being off-centre, even though it is following the rule of thirds. This creates a more interesting photograph however it can leave a type of void in the scene which can portray a feeling of emptiness within the image. The key to creating a beautiful image is to find the importance of balance in your images. You can balance the image by including your subject and other of less important subjects in order to fill space and create a more captivating image. Placing the subject on the outside of the image can create an uninteresting photo and views are unlikely to be intrigued, therefore the main subject of matter should always be within the intersection within the rule of thirds or within the centre of the image.

Depth of field

Depth of field is used in order to enhance your images so that they are sharp and appear to be in focus, In almost every image that will be a specific area within the image that will appear to be in front of or behind of the main subject in the photograph so that that subject is what is in main focus. The aperture of the photograph is referring to the amount of access  of light that is being given through the camera; the size of the aperture determines the amount of light that enters though the lens.  Using the aperture setting on your own camera is the simplest way to control your depth of field when you are preparing to take your images.

Mimicking Art - Games mimicked By Art

Art Deco and Bioshock

The game Bioshock was released for the windows system and xbox 360 games in 2007. Bioshock was the first person shooter video game to be developed by irrational games, the game was designed by Ken Levine. Bioshock compelled game play with benchmark graphics, ear-hunting sounds, genuine scares and a surreal sub- aquatic classic theme through out the game. The games special unique and aesthetic setting was what completed its originality. From its reveal the underwater city of rapture is an amazing achievement for design, its art deco style was a work of wonder for the gaming community .

The use of art deco in his external and internal space creates a specific look, the style of the design is from the 1930's and 1940's and shows the advancement of technology with geometric forms and patterns.

Bioshock's use of art deco in both Rapture's external and internal spaces to create a distinctive look  with the use of advanced technology to highlight geometric forms and symmetry in the patterns with the vibrant, contrasting colours. This was created in order to demonstrate opulence and fits in with Andrew Ryan's creative design ideas perfectly. The design was also created as it was well in budget for the whole concept, You can make something art deco and it is automatically low-poly and fits into a gaming budget perfectly because of all the large designs and big shapes, less detail means more money saved. The architects of Rapture; Simon and Daniel wales were massively influenced by the contemporary art of William Van Alen and William F Lamb who created work like Chrysler and Empire State. While also taking ideas and inspiration from Raymond Hood who was an artist and sculptor who worked for years as an art deco specialist. Overall Bioshock took ideas from Art Deco and used this type of art as inspiration for the design in there game, i feel that they really managed to grasp the idea of art deco and created a beautifully designed video game.

Niche Film- This is England

This is England - Niche Film

This is England was created and first produced as a film in 2006, how ever quite unusual followed later on with 3 series following on from the British Drama film. This is England was directed by Shane Meadows and follows the story of a group of young skinheads in 1983. The film portrays the subculture of its time and looks at the west indies culture of the 1960's, exploring the Ska, soul and reggae music which was adopted by the white nationalists and supremacists. This is England explores why this led to a division of the skinheads. The reason for the name 'This is England' is explained as part of a scene in the film; as character called 'Combo' who was recently released from prison, expresses his nationalist views using the phrase 'This is England' as part of a conversation. 

The film follows the story of a young boy named Shaun who was played by actor Thomas Turgoose in the film this is England, lost his Dad in the Falkland War, which really takes a tole on him as a young boy, getting bullied for the clothes he wears due to his mother not having much money after his fathers death, forces his to join the skinheads. Shaun earns the respect of the skinheads when he stands up to their teasing; he later becomes apart of their gang and loves having new and slightly dangerous friends - to his mothers disappointment, as the skinheads change both Shaun's appearance and attitude. Shaun finds him self in trouble with the return of racist ex-convict Combo, who was played by actor Stephen Graham. This causes a divide between the skinheads, while also an array of different aspects affecting the group with relationship issues between the boys; the girls and the parents.

Style of Art - Surrealism

Surrealism 

Surrealism is an artistic movement that began in the 1920's the movement aimed to create art work that is depicted from the subconscious and imaginary mind. Surrealism extends from normal traditional art as it can come from political, revolutionary actions and ideas but is focused on ideas that are to be seen as 'unreal'. Surrealism is best known for its visual art work and writing. As part of the surrealism art movement, artists paint unnerving, illogical scenes in order to create strange and distorted images of creatures and everyday objects. Surrealism is a platform for artists to quite literally turn their dreams into a reality by painting with more developed techniques to allow the unconscious to express it's self.

Salvador Deli 

An artist who is most famous for his surrealistic work is Salvador Dali, Salvador was one of the most versatile artists of the 1920's. Not only did work as a surrealistic artist but he also turned to become a successful writer, while also making paint, sculptures, fashion and advertising.  He was known for his flamboyant personality which personally i feel came across in his art pieces. Ever since the death of his brother he was told that he was the reincarnation of him. This left an impression on the child at a young age, and he later painted his dead brother in many of the paintings he composed. He claimed to have manifested hysterical rage and random outbursts towards his family and friends which was also portrayed through his art pieces. Salvador was born on the 11th of may in 1904 in spain, at a very early age he was encouraged to practice his artwork, this then lead to Dali studying at an Academy in madrid. When Salvador visited Paris, France, he met with artists such as Picasso, Magritte and Miro; these interactions lead to the artist first surrealism phase. His most famous surrealism painting is called ' The persistence of memory' within the painting are a number of melting clocks and ants in a beach landscape;  the are both images that Salvador placed in a unusual context. The creature that was centred in the middle of the image was painted with a deformed eye and nose that was draw from Dali's own imagination. Although it was said to be his own interpretation of a self portrait, some of the features on the creature such as the eye lashes were portrayed as insect- like.

Dali used in the painting 'The Persistence of memory' many colours as the background of the horizon he used a light blue which is faded into a darker blue and then to a yellow across the top of the painting. Under the sky line is the sea or what looks like a large pool, on the right is mountain shaped rocks and a small lone pebble. He also used a regtangular shape elevated, and on the top was a single pebble. Within the image is a lifeless hollow tree, with a silver pocket watch, which appears to be melting. The ground is a dark shade of brown, and black in some areas. On the ground is a large figure with no limbs or other human like characteristics, many people have said that the image is his own interpretation of himself. 

Camera angles

Oblique / Canted  image 

This type of angle is originally a dutch camera angle and is also known as a dutch tilt, canted angle or oblique angle . For this specific shot the camera is set at an angle on its axis so that the shot is composed with vertical lines at the side of the frame, in order to create an image that is shot non parallel with the bottom camera frame, this creates an image that is tilting as if someone had turned their head to the side.

On the ground 

This shot is created when the camera is facing towards the ground at a some what angle. It can also be taken from angling the camera from off the ground normally facing upwards.

Straight up
The straight up angle is created by facing the camera at an angle facing up towards the subject to create a straight up type of feel when creating an image.

Up side down 
As the name suggests this angle is created by turning the camera a full 180 degrees so that the camera is facing up side down, this angle is used to create a feeling that a person or character in a film is see things upside down, or as if the person is hanging up side down.

Eye level 
The camera angle makes using certain locations at which a camera or video recorder is placed to take a certain shot. a scene or a series of images can be taken with many different angles, in order to portray emotion. The eye level shot is what is most commonly used to take photographs and is taken from a personal point of view , looking straight forward. It is the most easiest shot that is used for photography and is just angled in a middle straight forward position.

Bird eye view 
This type of angle is as the name suggests from a birds perspective as if the bird was taking a photograph. The camera is elevated so that the view of the subject or object is from above, these can often be used to take photographs like Ariel photography or created blueprints and floor plans.

low angle 
This can be used in cinematography and is shot from an angle positioned low on a vertical axis, that is below eye level normally looking up, sometimes this camera angle can be shot below someones feet. This angle can created images if they are of a person to be portrayed as a subject looking strong and powerful.

Motif

What is a Motif? A motif is a theme or pattern that is repeated as a recurring fragment  in art work. A motif can be found in many visual arts, literature and design work. The term motif puts emphasis on the the creative piece with constant repetition. Motif can be a series of paintings that all portray a common theme or tiles all slotted together to create a large piece all with the same sort of pattern or theme. A motif is typically a key concept to a artist or designer as it is seen to be an essential to represent the sensory experiences that the piece is created for.

Children's art  

Children's art allows the child to self express in a creative form, giving the child freedom of choice, thought and allows them to express their feelings. Art is an important factor in child development and children's art can mean different things to different people. As a parent a child's art work is a display of their child's imagination, to a teacher it is a eduction, to a psychologist it is a way to understand a child's mind and a way to see what the child may be dealing with. To a child art is simply just a way for them to express them selves in a creative way. The way that you can differentiate whether it is a child's art piece or an adults is the way that a child will draw in a simplistic form and the colours that they use are often primary or quite brightly colours, they the style that children tend to draw in is often out of proportion and quite messy.

Children's waiting rooms in hospitals 

The way that children's waiting rooms are decorated can have an impact on the way the child is feeling in that environment. Having a plain room that is boring and looks like a very real 'hospital' can some times cause the child to feel distressed as they are in an environment where they do not feel comfortable in as the colours feel 'cold' and 'uninviting'. A room that is filled with colours- something that allows the child to feel more 'child-like' can make the child feel more comfortable so that they don't feel anxious, brightly coloured paintings or toys in a waiting room can help the child to distract themselves from the fact that they are in a new environment or in a hospital, making the child feel happier and calmer for treatment. Here are some examples of where toys and brightly coloured  paintings have been used in children's waiting rooms.

Art that helps to support anxiety 
Art therapy can help to tackle anxiety, weather it is occasional or chronic. Art therapy helps those who suffer to help calm down and relax , when creating artistic things, it helps to take your mind away from anxieties

Film Timeline

History of Film Time line 

1950's 

The house of un-american activities committee investigated into Hollywood which resulted into blacklisting many actors and directors, such as Charlie Chapman.

1957

The cinematic industry were threatened by TV as film theatres were becoming bankrupt and TV was at an all time high.

1960's 

Hollywood film makers created innovative and ground breaking films to show the social revolution, this was around the same time as Bonnie and Clyde 

1976

The success of Jaws and Star Wars in particular led to the rise of 'blockbusters'

1980's 

Audiences became particularly interested in watching films at home on VCR's in the early 80's, this was also a battle to stop the violation of copyright

1994

American studios started to create their own independent production teams and companies to finance and produce non- mainstream fare.

2000's

Documentary programs became popular and escalated to a commercial genre along with the success of films such as march of the penguins

2002

More and more films were released to IMAX Cinema  along with the first disney animation called 'Treasure planet'

2005

The dark knight was the first film that was released with IMAX technology 

2009

Avatar became the highest-grossing film of all time in Jams Cameron's 3D film 

Chiaroscuro

Chiaroscuro

Chiaroscuro meaning light and dark in Italian comes from a technique produced in visual arts. Chiaroscuro represents light and dark shadowing in 3D objects and is most commonly used in the process of shading in drawings.  Its typically an oil painting technique created in the Renaissance period. In paintings the description refers to a clear contrast in colours in order to suggest volume and modelling; it is generally only used when prominent in feature work when the artist uses extreme contrast of light and dark. Roman and Greek artists used the technique of chiaroscuro in many paintings but was first brought to recognition by Leonardo Da Vinci in the 15th century. Leonardo employed it to produce a vivid impression of three dimensionality in him figure drawing.

Chiaroscuro in Art

In order to engage with the viewers painters in the Renaissance and Baroque era used the technique of chiaroscuro. Its used in order to create illusion of light in certain areas of the piece; creating light from a specific source shining on objects and figures to create a 3D appearance. Like the way photographers and cinematographers use light to create effect, painters created contrast of light and dark to create impact on the image. The style helped to emphasise drama and emotion while also exaggerating shadow and light to portray a gloomy or murky feel and atmosphere within the art piece.

Chiaroscuro within Film 
Film makers use chiaroscuro to highlight subjects in dark backgrounds in order to create tension in a scene, film makers do this in order to trick the audiences brain into feeling more emotion.  Chiaroscuro is one of the most used techniques in art, not only in music, films and literature. Tim Burton used this technique in order to produce the film in stop motion 'Frankenweenie' and create deep emotion involvement.

Chiaroscuro used in James Bond- Casino Royale 

Chiaroscuro in photography 
As a studio photography tool lighting can include daylight and studio lighting; can be used for a range of different subjects from portraits to still life. Chiaroscuro can create dramatic effect in photography, natural lighting can be used as a source to create a natural light and shadowed look in images where as studio or 'fake' lighting can create a more dramatic and structured effect in images.