Compositional clichés still have their place.

The value of photographic clichés.

What makes one photo better than another?  There is no shortage of answers and you will find that everyone has an opinion even though most would not be able to tell you exactly what their criteria are.  This is precisely the reason that traditional compositional techniques still hold their value.  The fact is that they work.

If you are a student of photography you probably know about compositional guidelines such as the rule of thirds, framing, using lines, critical focus points, depth of field, and so on.  The above image utilizes many of these devices and, to me, work together to produce a relatively pleasing image.

If you are not familiar with such vehicles of image enhancement I would suggest that you take the time to learn their basics.  Others may find that these techniques are limiting in nature.  If you are restricted in compositional endeavors, how is it possible to produce unique works of art, to think outside the box, or to experiment with different methodologies?

I think this is where the photographer or visual artist would want to share their thoughts.  Consider the traditional mechanisms for creating an image as cornerstone philosophies; a basic group of tools if you like.  They do not represent the entire set of methods that are available; rather they are the beginning of learning the craft.  

Growth within the confines of restrictive parameters produces cookie-cutter talent.  Learn the basics, master them and discover their value.  Then, expand beyond those boundaries and explore what lies beyond.  This is where real artistry lives.

Thanks for reading.  www.ericspix.com