Posted on by Anne Sandler · 47 Comments

Lens Artists Challenge #400: The Rule of Three

When you are about to take a photo, do you think of yourself as a designer of your photographic masterpiece? This week, Tina introduces us to a designers stand by, The Rule of Three. Having worked with a graphic designer for 20 years, I learned quickly about odd numbers adding flow and interest to a piece.

I use this rule when I compose an image in camera. Like these three trees.

This doesn’t happen on a conscious level, but instinctively. It happens at the zoo when there’s more than one animal to photograph. Or when on an outing and photographing wildlife.

Oh my, I even caught the Rule in a building reflection showing three other buildings.

Someone understood this rule when they placed these shells on a pier. They really bring your attention the the texture of the wood.

These three sculptures, “The last Conversation,” are part of five (two not pictured) by  Juan Muñoz, taken at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. Whether it’s the three I took or the entire sculpture of 5, the sculptor understood the Rule of Three or having an odd number.

Now, I hope Tina doesn’t mind me cheating a bit. I’m claiming the Rule because I’m treating the sculpture as one and my photo buddies as the other two.

The more you think of the Rule, the more instinctive it will become. Thanks Tina for introducing us to this important guide. When you post your reply, please remember to link to her original post and use the Lens-Artists tag. We had a great time last week with Egidio’s challenge of being stuck in place. Patti will be challenging us next week. So stay tuned. Whether you’re stuck in place or wandering remember be a little odd in your photo composition.

Stay healthy and be resilient!

Posted on by Anne Sandler · 33 Comments

Lens Artists Challenge #386: Mastering the Power of Juxaposition

Like the “Little Engine That Could” I thought I’ll never find photos for this challenge. But when I re-read Patti’s post, I started thinking, “I Think I Can!”

So, I started searching and found some. Here’s what I found.

A very much alive window washer next to a store window mannequin. Taken at a local shopping center just before the stores opened. There are also a lot of reflections.

The Washington Monument towers above the tree line at the Capital Mall in Washington DC. This was taken just before President Obama’s inauguration and from a car window.

The shadow of a window appearing much larger than the actual window. Taken in downtown Sacramento.

Shadows reflecting on various parts of a wall at the Manetti Shrem Museum of Art in Davis, CA (UC Davis campus). I love the different walls and how the shadow reflects on them.

A sculpture of a small girl standing on a TALLish building, inviting you to be persistent.

Here we have the juxtaposition of color, style and placement of the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity, This museum caters to grade-school children. SMUD is our Sacramento Metropolitan Utility District.

Thanks Patti for teaching me that when I “think I can,” I can! It was fun. Please remember to link to Patti’s post and use the Lens-Artist tag when you respond. We certainly had a “cropping” good time last week when Ritva gave us the encouragement to crop away! John is presenting our next challenge, so look for his post. In the meantime, stay safe and be resilient!