Project 52: Month 1, Focal Point

This month's theme is Focal Point, aka Point of Focus.

One picture is worth a thousand words.

The focal point of a photograph is the center of interest or the subject of the photograph.  It is the reason for the photograph and it should tell a story or convey a mood.  The photographer should compose the picture so that the eye is drawn to the focal point.  That's why I've started the Project 12 - 52 -365 with this topic.

How many times have you looked at your friends' (or you own) snapshots and been unable to determine why the picture was taken?  Often the difference between amateur snapshots and professional photographs is that the professional understands the importance of focusing on the main subject (or subjects),  

The viewer's eye can be directed to the Focal Point by using such composition techniques as:

1. Placement of subject
2. Simplifying
3. Creative focus (blurring of background)
4. Framing
5. Cropping (in-camera and post production)
6. Leading lines
7. Point of view/Camera angle
8. Light
9. Contrast
10. Use of color

When you take your photograph(s) this month, try to focus on the subject.  Stop and think, "Why am I taking a picture of this subject?"  "What do I want the viewer to see and feel when they look at the photograph?  What story am I trying to tell?  What mood do I want to convey?" 

Each week and month I will make suggestions for further study so that we can learn more about composition.  By the end of the year, we should both be taking better pictures.  But don't forget to have a good time!

Suggested reading and photography examples:

1. Photograph Subject Placement, Center or Point or Interest, For Photography
2. Improving Your Photography, Strong Focal Point, by Peter Ensenberger, Photocomposition Articles
3. The Importance of a Focal Point In Photo Compositions, Picture Correct
4. Using Focal Points In Photography, Digital Photography School
5. Composition: Is a Focal Point Required?, Better Photo Instructor Insights

 (Yeah, I know this post should have come before the last one, but I was a little discombobulated at the end of last year.  Too many days off work, I think.  I planned to start this series of articles, leisurely, in the middle of December, but didn't quite make it.  I'll try to do better next month.)