Compositional Elements in Still Life

[Rachel Foster]

I'm leaving scenics alone for a little bit and attacking compositional elements in still life. I'm trying to arrange a pleasing scene that tells a story. I'm hesitant to tell the viewer how to "see this."

The more detailed and "picky" the criticisms, the better. But, if anything is "right," please mention that also.

Ok, ready, aim...shoot!

ISO 1000, f/5.0, 1/80.

As to crispness, once I hit a composition that works, I'll reshoot it with tripod, lowering the ISO and shutter speeds.

 

[Tom Robbins]

Rachel,

Wow, ISO 1000. I'm impressed. Did you use any noise reduction?

The elements are located in the frame conservatively, and the results are quite pleasant. The shadows of the glasses suggest the candle was not the only light source. Color temperature at the open book also points toward a second source of light.

You aren't revealing your intentions, so my observations cannot be considered criticism.

Tom

 

[Rachel Foster]

This was with the 5dII, so no noise reduction was needed. You're right on the money: There were three lamps in addition to the candle.

My intentions are to learn how to set up elements in a still life. Lighting, of course, is key in ANY photo. My thinking is that once I get a feel for how to conceptualize and arrange the elements I can start trying to create something original and interesting. Right now, I'm trying to get the basics nailed.

Thanks for the input. It's greatly appreciated.