2019-05-01_Digital_SLR_Photography

YEARNING FOR SPRING

by Kerstin Winters

Nikon 7200 with 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6 lens.

Exposure: 1/60sec at f/5.6 (ISO 4000).

What we think: Composing still-life images

isn't as easy as it looks. In fact, with a simple

set-up and a plain background, composition

is arguably the most important element.

Kerstin's off-centre placement of the vase is

spot-on, especially given the manner in which

that one tulip branches off. We're presuming

that Kerstin used window light, given the high

ISO – this isn't a negative and shows

understanding of working with the conditions

to get the shot. The colour pop has removed

possible colour distractions from the

background,vaseandanycolourcasts.

Why it works

1) Considered composition

2) Colour popping makes flowers stand out

3) Good use of light

May 2019 Digital SLR Photography 51

TRAVELEXPERTJordanButters

“It's tricky when you visit so-called

photography 'hotspots' – inevitably

you want to come away with your

own interpretation of the scene,

yet at the same time it's hard to avoid treading

in other photographer's footprints. After all, the

classic compositions are classics for a reason

• they work! In using a prime lens, I'd imagine
  Nicola had to make a sacrifice when it came to
  what to include here – she's opted to retain the
  breakwater on the right, but in doing so has had
  to crop out Manarola's zigzagging streets to the
  left of the frame. I've seen photographers
  completely crop out the breakwater, which
  isn't as attractive as Nicola's composition here,
  so she's made the right choice. However,
  maybe shooting and stitching two side-by-side
  frames in a panorama would have been the
  most effective approach? It's a handy trick to
  expand your field of view when restricted to
  just one position and one focal length.”