Analysis of a photo

In the chapter on modifying light Tim Fitzharris states that "filters are used primarily to reduce subject contrast and enhance color." It is best to get filters that fit all of the cameras that you use, or one that is large enough to be used on them all. The following photograph, taken by Dave Shumway will be my example that I will discuss and use to describe the rest of the chapter. http://www.shumwayphotography.com/Landscapes/Landscapes-of-Glacier/8882313_9DbJa#588934475_3HXgJ

I would bet that Dave used a neutral density filter on the photograph to balance the picture "retaining the richness of the sky and the detail in the foreground." Although color enhancing filters can be used, I doubt that any were because he would be able to adjust the color on the computer seeing that he shoots in digital. The closest part to the viewer in the photo is the trees which are still quite some distance away, so using a portable light would not be necessary, although it may be for other photos that need a little help illuminating the foreground.

There is definitely dominance in this picture and I find it to be the ray of sunshine in the lower mid range of the photo. Establishing this area of dominance is important in capturing and keeping your viewer's attention. When looked at from a distance it is more visible that there is a lighting bolt design starting with a sharp diagonal at the top with the clouds then coming back with the sunshine and again back with the treeline. These three things work together to make jagged yet flowing lines for the eye to follow.

Color is an important part of appeal and is drastically captured in this photo. Throughout the frame are dark greens, dark blues and greys, yet in the middle is this exquisite orange streak...very appealing, making it the center of interest as well. As mentioned earlier, the center of interest lies in the bottom middle or the lower most portion of the rule of thirds grid.