February 12, 2024
Capturing Beauty Through the Lens
Today, we delve into the fascinating world of digital photography and the exciting class available to our high school students.
At Peachtree Academy, we believe that photography is more than just clicking a button; it’s an art form that allows us to express our creativity, observe the world around us, and tell compelling stories. Our digital photography class gives students the tools, techniques, and inspiration to become skilled photographers.
Before diving into complex camera settings and professional gear, our students start with the basics. And what better way to begin than with the device most of us carry in our pockets—the cell phone! Yes, you read that right. Our budding photographers learn that great images can be captured using the technology they use daily.
One of the initial assignments of the semester challenges students to explore the concept of natural frames and leading lines. These compositional techniques add depth, focus, and visual interest to photographs. Let’s break them down:
1. Natural Frames
What are natural frames? Natural frames are elements within the scene that naturally frame the subject. Think of archways, tree branches, windows, or even doorways. By positioning the subject within these frames, photographers create a captivating composition.
How do our students practice this? Armed with their cell phones, our students venture outdoors. They seek out scenes where nature provides these frames. A blooming tree branch framing a distant mountain, or a window frame capturing a sunset—these moments become their canvas.
2. Leading Lines
What are leading lines? Leading lines are visual pathways that guide the viewer’s eye through the photograph. They can be straight or curved, horizontal or vertical. Roads, railroads, bridges, and even shorelines—all serve as excellent leading lines.
How do our students incorporate them? Our young photographers explore their surroundings, looking for lines that draw attention. A winding path leading into a forest, a pier stretching into the water, or a row of lampposts become their subjects.
They learned how to use technical skills to create compelling visual stories. We want to inspire them to appreciate and capture the beauty of God’s creation in every frame.
Below is a sample of the work done by Thor Gomez for this project.
