photo critique, otherwise known as "pretty pictures"

This photo caught my attention for many different reasons. First, the subject is clear. Depth of field allowed the photographer to highlight Ms. Pao while keeping the background of the picture out of focus yet dynamic, with vibrant, complementary colors. Second, which I just mentioned, is the complementary nature of the colors of the photo - they all complement each other and yet subtly allow Ms. Pao to become the focus of the picture. Third, is the natural lighting. There was not a flash used, which allows a natural, elegant, and flattering tone. Fourth, the photographer is obviously well-versed in the rule of thirds. Overall, the effect is very professional. [If you read the article, I think we can assume that was the purpose of the photographer given that Ms. Pao was fired.]

I found this photo in an article about the reaction to Wednesday night's debate. Most of all, I think I enjoy this photo because it is not the typical political candidate photo. It is not only coming from a different perspective, but like the first photo I chose, it is using depth of field to create a feeling. The subject is not the president, but instead the people in the crowd. It seems like the photographer is wondering what the voters think and highlighting their reaction. Once again, the photographer used natural lighting and lucked out with President Obama's black clothing, which provides a contrast to the crowd.

This photo was not from an article, which is why I have three pictures. But I found it so interesting that I felt it behooved me to share it. I found the photo on National Geographic's "Photo of the Day" from Sept. 20. It is titled "Winter, Pakistan." I like many things about this photo (some of which we heard about in class on Wednesday): the graphic element with an organic symmetry of the trees as well as reflection off the water, the mood of the photo communicated through the color and stillness of the photo as well as the quality of light, and the use of the rule of thirds, all of which add up to an incredible sense of place.