Visual Narrative #052: Expressions of a Single Line

VN #052: Expressions of a Single Line
Posted December 1, 2024

 

Expressions of a Single Line

The single line

Fifteen years ago, I went to Farwell Canyon to photograph the complexities of a rare and disappearing biome; the BC grasslands. While looking for avenues to explore the grasslands, I noticed a winding trail which I have marked with a red arrow in the above image.

I interpreted that trail as a line; a very important element of composition or visual design.

Over the years, I have kept an eye on that line and have photographed it at different times of the day throughout the seasons.


Line and shape create visual design.

The top and bottom rectangles are geometric, while the middle rectangle has become two irregular shapes created by a wiggly line. Irregular shapes are more common in natural environments.

Line, shape, texture, and colour.

This perspective has added the element of colour; creating a slightly more complex, yet enhanced, composition.

The element of snow added additional texture to the composition.

This perspective portrays fewer shapes than the previous two images; a cleaner and simpler composition.

 

This perspective is more monochromatic and relies on tonal contrast for good composition.

Line, shape, texture, and high tonal contrast.

This small photographic project started by recognizing the potential of a simple, single line as a means of photographic expression.

Through various perspectives and image making styles, the elements of line, shape, texture, and tonal contrast were arranged in different ways to convey different moods and feelings.

Arranging these elements to generate an elevated sense of beauty is an exciting and enriching exercise, much like it would be to design my living room or kitchen.

 

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