What if the conventional rules of composition aren't the key to great photography?
Coming to you from Alister Benn, this thought-provoking video challenges the traditional views on photographic composition. Benn critiques the common advice found online and in educational materials. He dismisses the idea that rigid rules like the rule of thirds or leading lines are necessary for good composition. Instead, he emphasizes that true composition cannot be learned by following these rules. Benn believes that following such guidelines often results in generic, uninspired photos.
Benn shares his personal journey, highlighting how he initially followed these conventional rules. For years, he produced technically correct but uninspired images. He recounts a moment of realization in his studio when he recognized the repetitive nature of his work. This epiphany led him to question the value of these rules and to seek a more personal and expressive approach to composition.
Benn argues that composition is about discovery, not learning. He advises pointing your camera at things that genuinely interest you. By doing so, you start to develop a personal style that reflects your unique perspective. He also suggests focusing on the emotional impact of your images rather than conforming to traditional standards. This approach encourages you to think about how each element in your frame contributes to the overall feeling and message of the photograph.
Understanding composition involves recognizing the role of every pixel in the frame. Benn advises thinking about transitions rather than leading lines, such as transitions from dark to light or from cool to warm colors. This method helps in creating images that are cohesive and emotionally resonant. He also discusses the importance of excluding distractions to create a concise and impactful image.
Benn's perspective on composition is further detailed in his book "Luminosity and Contrast," where he explores the nuances of expressing emotions through photography. He emphasizes that creativity comes from within and is not about adhering to external rules. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Benn.
