It’s amazing how we can learn about the way we photograph as we take on our weekly challenges. Last week Sofia had us think about how we use symmetry in our photos, and this week Donna has us digging through our files for asymmetrical images. What a learning experience. I realize that while I truly don’t think about it when I compose a picture, I lean towards taking asymmetrical images.

I guess I just like things not so obviously balanced unless I see symmetry demanding to be photographed. For example, when I compose a nature image, it’s usually asymmetrical but somehow balanced. I really don’t compose it thinking about whether it’s symmetrical or asymmetrical.

With event photography, it’s the same. Now I’m wondering why! I guess carnivals are always asymmetrical.

I tend to do the same with environmental portraits. These pictures were taken at the Empire Mine State Historical Park. I offset the man and his dog and the blacksmith. I even offset the close up of the blacksmith.

And did you notice I also posted an odd number of pictures for each segment? What does that say about me? All kidding aside, I truly don’t think too much about how I compose a photo. I just work the camera and lens until I get what I like.

Thank you, Donna, for showing us the other side of symmetry. As you can see from this post, I’ve learned a lot about my photography techniques. And to Sofia for starting us off with symmetry. I enjoyed seeing all your symmetrical images, and they were very creative.

I’ll be leading the challenge next week, so look for my post.

58 thoughts on “Lens Artists Challenge #274: Asymmetry”

  3. Pingback: Asymmetry | lifelessons – a blog by Judy Dykstra-Brown

  4. hahaha, you had me laughing at choosing three images for each section. You see…balance. I’m like you, Anne, I find most of what I photograph and edit is usually with asymmetry in mind, and yet there are definitely times for symmetry, isn’t there? I am happy for this week’s challenge so we can differentiate the two techniques, and also see our preferences, as photographers. I love all your photos! The barn and the lone tree scream asymmetry and quite frankly there are just awesome photos. The blacksmith shot is a favorite. Others will feel inspiration with your photos.

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  14. I think asymmetry is more natural to us, the rule of thirds is compelling in that sense. Only when something is stunningly symmetrical we think about it. I have to agree the Egret is absolutely magical and I have a soft spot for the lonely tree, it’s the kind of tree I’d spent hours just enjoying it.

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  21. Very interesting Anne. Truly I didn’t think about images we’ve made where the SUBJECT is offset, rule of thirds etc. I was seeking subjects themselves that were asymmetrical. I MUCH prefer your approach!!! Beautiful examples and big smile for posting sets of three!

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  26. I love all of these, Anne! Excellent images and the lone tree is glorious. I too really compose after what I see and feel to be in harmony, and if I ever think of a rule, it is the rule of thirds.

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  30. Pingback: Lens-ArtistPC-274-Asymmetery – WoollyMuses

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