Fundamentals

Perhaps the single most important element in mastering the techniques and 
tactics is experience. But once you have the fundamentals,
acquiring the experience is a matter of time.

Greg LeMond

Rule of Thirds

An important component of photography concerns the rule of thirds. It is important to utilize the rule of thirds as it is the basis for well balanced and interesting shots. This is not to say that every image must follow the basic and important rule of thirds; however, it is important to learn the rules so that if an opportunity arose to break such rules, the execution is effective and efficient.

According to Darren Rowse:

"The theory is that if you place points of interest in the intersections or along the lines that your photo becomes more balanced and will enable a viewer of the image to interact with it more naturally." 

Peoples eyes have a tendency to go to the intersection of the thirds and generally stray away from the center of the shot. Studies have shown that photographs are more aesthetically appealing to the eye when off center.

The three images above were captured in the Elizabeth Boulevard historic district neighborhood of Fort Worth, Texas, on Sunday, February 17, 2013. The neighborhood was abundant with victorian style homes and unique sculptures. (TCU Photo/Kaia Naftel)

Notice how in the above images the focal points are not centered. This gives each image a great deal of personality and expression. If the sculptures were to be located directly in the center of the photograph, the viewer may not resonate with the image as naturally appealing. I chose to photograph in this location because of the unique setting comprised with homes of eclectic and revival architectural styles. According to the Ryan Place site, "Elizabeth Boulevard was the first restricted residential development in Fort Worth and one of the earliest residential areas that is today intact and free from demolition or commercial development." Visit Elizabeth Boulevard Historic District for more information.

Evelyn Wilson and her dog, Marcy, enjoyed an evening stroll on her street, Elizabeth Boulevard, in Fort Worth, Texas, on February 17, 2013. A Fort Worth native, Evelyn received her bachelors, masters and PH.D. from TCU. She has been a happy resident of Fort Worth for some forty years. (TCU Photo/Kaia Naftel)

The above photographs with Mrs. Wilson were captured early evening on Sunday, February 17, using an ISO setting of 400 and 100 respectively. As one of the kindest strangers I have ever interacted with, Evelyn and her precious dog allowed me as an aspiring photojournalist to take their picture. Evelyn was a fascinating woman with a decorated and adventurous past. Although I spoke with Evelyn for a matter of minutes, she truly won my admiration and respect.

During sunset on Sunday, February 17, 2013, aspiring photojournalist Kaia Naftel shot this final image on Berry Street by the TCU track and field. She couldn't resist to capture a flawless moment in time. (TCU Photo/Kaia Naftel)