Why doesn't my PHOTO look GOOD? An honest composition review

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 ก.ย. 2024
  • Composition is always a challenging part of photography. I share the techniques I use and review photos that worked and didn't worked recently.
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ความคิดเห็น • 498

  • @royhakala7999
    @royhakala7999 3 ปีที่แล้ว +391

    Interesting that your discussion was on balance, separation, distractions, shapes, color,, and not rule of thirds, golden ratio, and the other old tired rules. I appreciate that.

    • @ThomasParis
      @ThomasParis 3 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      On a workshop, I learned that the while the rule of thirds might be useful to learn to stand away from bull's eye composition, what actually really does matter is balance. Even most examples given to support the "rule of thirds" actually don't support it, with strong elements not on a third. Not to mention the golden ratio, with examples that are even bigger approximations... Balance has become my "rule".

    • @petermillar24
      @petermillar24 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Yeah, but you got to get to the point where the golden ratio etc. become tired. I wouldn't recommend people skip that stuff when learning.

    • @daveeagle1559
      @daveeagle1559 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thats something I picked up on, that and Visual Weight (part of balance I suppose), so much more useful thought process to help you decompose/deconstruct a composition rather than structural considerations like rule of thirds which you might use to assemble/build a composition.

    • @ThomasParis
      @ThomasParis 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@daveeagle1559 yep, I would include visual weight in what I call balance. The position of the element in the composition changes its visual weight, even if you don't change its actual size. So you might need something smaller or bigger or placed differently in the composition to balance it.

    • @LockJawCouchFace
      @LockJawCouchFace 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I mean you’ll also notice that many of these photos follow the rule of thirds by default. The balance is then factored in around the rule to make the rest of the image work, but the rules often still provide the backbone.

  • @cosmicfoxglove1047
    @cosmicfoxglove1047 3 ปีที่แล้ว +401

    Seeing what doesn't work in a composition helps me see what does work, a lot more than just seeing a photographer's good photos.

    • @grumpyparrotphotography
      @grumpyparrotphotography 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Yes, exactly. I couldn't agree more. Thanks to Mr. Danson for taking this approach.

    • @jeffreysproule
      @jeffreysproule 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      That's so true, it's nice when photographers don't just show their good photos.

    • @mlibrarianus
      @mlibrarianus 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Definitely agree with you on that. Also helps beginners like me to hear that pros don't always get the perfect shot all the time.

    • @rachaelmay9160
      @rachaelmay9160 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Totally agree. It’s also inspiring in a way, to know that oh, yeah...most shots don’t work!

    • @StuWright
      @StuWright 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      its just his opinion though someone else could take what he`d call a bad composition and still sell it.....

  • @vittoriaossanna6109
    @vittoriaossanna6109 3 ปีที่แล้ว +37

    What I mostly appreciate about your videos is that not only you explain why a composition works, but you also go through shots that you weren't satisfied with. Keep that going, it really helps a lot

  • @bradw7084
    @bradw7084 3 ปีที่แล้ว +163

    It's the detail that photography requires you to see that makes it such a great hobby. It slows you down & gets you to really see. Then, if you're lucky, something unexpected may happen too. The photo is just a record of the experience, which is the real gift.

  • @stevewickmagician
    @stevewickmagician 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    It's always refreshing to understand why some compositions don't work instead of just learning why the good ones do work. Thanks for sharing Nigel lots of food for thought in this video

  • @andyprime56
    @andyprime56 3 ปีที่แล้ว +55

    Being true to yourself and critical of your own work is a gift which is too often never explored. Kudos to you Nigel, executed flawlessly.

  • @montisphotography
    @montisphotography 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I love how hard you are on yourself, some of these photos that didn't work for you are amazing. but that's why you're so good because you don't settle

  • @GreatWestGarage
    @GreatWestGarage 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Love this as always. My wife was like, "is it over already". We enjoy are Sunday morning coffee and video with Nigel time.

    • @NigelDanson
      @NigelDanson  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Glad you enjoyed it

  • @ayasmus
    @ayasmus 3 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Seeing your thought process is really opened my eyes. I was wondering what's wrong about a photo I took, there was something bothering me. Now I am able to analyze better. Cheers Nigel.

  • @van_creative
    @van_creative 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    ladscape photography is such an ongoing exercise. Even after 4 years I'm still learning how to compose photos, where the best lighting is, what I want as foreground, subject etc. Your videos are always so helpful

    • @BenelliMr
      @BenelliMr 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      don't worry; this is how I feel like after 40 years :(

  • @andeeleininger5968
    @andeeleininger5968 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I struggle with simplifying my images. I want people to see it ALL! Which is not the way to get really powerful images, as you’ve beautifully shown in your video. I went on a weekend trip this fall to the mountains and really tried to focus on simplifying my images and putting on my zoom lense to cut out the extra stuff. It worked!

  • @billkipper3264
    @billkipper3264 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Funny that you called the one photo "The Fennell Family" with the description of the toddler, teenagers and mom and dad because as soon as I saw it my first thought was that they were Ents.

  • @gus_nomad7191
    @gus_nomad7191 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    It’s such an education seeing you commenting on what worked and what did not and why. Some stunning shots and humbling to see how much thought and effort you put into your photography. Thank you.

  • @leonardbertaux6897
    @leonardbertaux6897 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    What I find so challenging in landscape photography is composing for a clear figure / ground relationship. Keep up sharing your work, both the successes and the near successes.

  • @zahidsadmannahid
    @zahidsadmannahid 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You're not just a good photographer but also a very good story teller. Love to see your tips and explanation. Great work. Thumbs up from Bangladesh 🇧🇩

  • @snarkyboojum
    @snarkyboojum 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    As a beginner landscape photographer, I love listening to you explain and talk about your images. Top quality content. Thank you.

  • @lobisw
    @lobisw 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I really enjoy the self critiques because they show thought process and details in a clearer way than just showing things that work. Really good video.

  • @pradippatel9345
    @pradippatel9345 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just love your discussion of why compositions didn’t work for certain shots. You come to a beautiful scene, it’s so enamored with it, and you forget the little details that might make or break a shot. Your description helps us to see that.

  • @Wozilla1
    @Wozilla1 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Something in your last seascape photograph that caught my eye that you didn't mention, was the tide rushing out exposed some smaller rocks that weren't visible in the other shots. These smaller rocks created a natural leading line that drew my eye up toward the crashing wave and sea stacks.
    Great video. It's always a pleasure watching your videos and listening to your detailed explanations.

    • @paulmills8472
      @paulmills8472 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Nicely pointed out. Excellent comment

  • @rcen20
    @rcen20 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I find that when I get back from a shoot I look at my photos and realize I don’t have a specific subject. I could have a beautiful scene, but nothing specific to focus on

  • @mr.t5610
    @mr.t5610 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I could make this a long description of why I like you Nigel, but I'll content myself (and you) with just mentioning that I really like your channel, so informative and educational. And besides that, you really are a great photographer.
    Thank you for taking the time to share your inspiring and informative videos, it is highly appreciated.

  • @lindamcnamara2742
    @lindamcnamara2742 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your photos are extraordinary! I am an amateur watercolor painter and have watched so many artist videos about composition. Your videos have helped more than all others combined. Thank you so much! I have subscribed to your channel and will continue to watch and learn.

  • @sharondmeber3802
    @sharondmeber3802 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I find it super helpful to hear your thoughts on why an image does on doesn’t work! Thank you

  • @TheMrSarcastic
    @TheMrSarcastic 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    For me all the visual weight of the final shot is focused by the leading lines created by the double row of rocks in the center. They seem to be screaming “Look at the action of that wave!”. Add to that the line created by the light central foreground rock leading to the dark boulder and stack to the back, all the attention wants to rest there on those lines of rock and the the boulder the wave is crashing over. Thirdly, the dark boulder and rows of rock stand out in contrast to the white of the water to the left and right. There is so much visual gravity there. I hope I explained why my eyes just focus at that point in the image.

  • @andreaskrause
    @andreaskrause 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    one of the best on youtube! Real talking, no bla bla. Amazing helpful! Thank you!

  • @AngelWych1
    @AngelWych1 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I really like the fence in the snowy picture - I think it adds to the dimension, especially as it is almost on a diagonal with the slope where the tree is sitting on... another fab video - thank you

  • @mlibrarianus
    @mlibrarianus 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Felt good to hear you also think something is going to work but get home to realize it doesn't. Great tips, hopefully can remember when I'm out and about.

  • @SomeonewithaSony
    @SomeonewithaSony 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Me: Nigel would you consider yourself a perfectionist?
    Nigel: I’d rate this image 8/10...nope this one didn’t work for me.
    Love your work, Nigel. Always stunning.

  • @kawiemer
    @kawiemer 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    What you leave out can be as important as what you include.

  • @mariebird01
    @mariebird01 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    What I like about your videos, Nigel, is the honesty, as you go through explaining each shot’s good points and bad, through your own eyes, which in my mind, keeps the integrity of your images shining through the photos you show.
    Thank you

  • @xxxnsfw
    @xxxnsfw 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    A lot of resources will teach you guidelines of golden ratio and rule of thirds like previous comments have stated, but what is far more important is overall structure and weight of the image from side to side. Negative and positive space. Just as you convey. I'm very pleased with that.

  • @erkkikoski-lammi1687
    @erkkikoski-lammi1687 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    You are so good in details and distances to get great pics and video again. Nice to see your passion too and thanks for sharing everything to us🙏🙏

  • @celinemorisset5533
    @celinemorisset5533 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I really appreciate to hear your thinking, the story telling and the critique of your photography. Cool learning, thanks for sharing.

  • @Sc7056-s9z
    @Sc7056-s9z 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video on composition! Been shooting for about 25 years and still find getting a well composed image the most difficult part of photography. Trying to simplify an image and cutting out distraction in the field is a never ending battle for me. Always working on getting the eye of the viewer to move the image in a Way that creates some emotion in the viewer. Lots of disappointing shots but very rewarding when you get a great image. I find it very frustrating and elusive. Subtle changes can have a big impact. Really enjoyed walking thru different images and what didn’t work and what finally did. Very helpful. Would love to see more videos like this on composition. Thanks. Beautiful images!

  • @deborahtishman586
    @deborahtishman586 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I truly appreciate your explanation of the subtleties that you took in order to capture exactly the photo you intended. Also, showing photos that didn't work and explaining exactly why, only enhances the importance of composition. Your photos are exquisite and those trees are simply magical looking. Thank you so very much for your professional advice.

  • @kirstymcleod6647
    @kirstymcleod6647 ปีที่แล้ว

    Even a year later, this is still a very informative watch! Thank you Nigel!

  • @mantonythe1st
    @mantonythe1st 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    My brain at 18:42 - "I like that boulder...that's a nice boulder".
    Seriously though, great video. I've only seen a few of your videos but still they've helped me no end in improving my photography.

  • @JonathanTaylor63
    @JonathanTaylor63 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks Nigel, that is really big help for a blind photographer like myself, who only knows what he doesn't like but can't explain the photo's he likes:)

  • @hunterm9
    @hunterm9 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've sort of been in a creative rut with photography for the past year. I put off watching this video because I just wasn't into the idea of it. But after watching this it's really got me (for now) back into it. It's easy to forget how fun the little things can be if you let them. All the little things you need to get just right to get the perfect photo, and the total joy you get when it all comes together.

  • @Jimgoodwin846
    @Jimgoodwin846 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your video is so insightful! The discussion about how you arrived at the final composition is exactly what I’m looking for. I learn so much “getting into” the professional photographers head. Thanks for a great video.

  • @MikePageKaltenberg
    @MikePageKaltenberg 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    "Your crumbs are my feast." Looking at that first image, I'd have been well happy with that.

    • @NigelDanson
      @NigelDanson  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I was happy with it but it just didn’t have that wow factor for me 😃

  • @seanorphoto
    @seanorphoto 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I still think the shot at 3:26 is a keeper , the fence on the right helps balance with the tree on the left , nice shapes in the tree, snow falling down. That’s an image

    • @stephenschmid492
      @stephenschmid492 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree. I think the fence looks very good in that shot.

    • @alannorthdevonuk763
      @alannorthdevonuk763 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Agree, love that fence here.

  • @wildlinesau
    @wildlinesau 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is an extremely useful approach to teaching and explaining your approach to composition, it's way more helpful than seeing only what worked.

  • @deeburks
    @deeburks 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I always watch these vids...as artists we can learn a great deal from photographers about composition and light...

  • @erichstocker8358
    @erichstocker8358 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Your discussion on the 1st Madeira photo was brilliant. I learned a lot. Hadn’t even thought of some of those things.

  • @jean-marcducommun8185
    @jean-marcducommun8185 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    You'r really teaching the art of photography and not taking good pictures. Like a painter artist you give great attentions to details that add up and create a good composition. This thorough work on the scene is a precondition for a 10/10 as no post production could fix it. It is often said that one can learn most from mistakes and I think this is very much true in photography. It's always a real pleasure to watch your videos as your admirable personality shines through.

  • @JR-xn4gl
    @JR-xn4gl 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Regarding the snowy landscape image with the tree and the fence curving off to the right, the one I that series you thought came closest to working whilst questioning the inclusion of the fence: I didn’t think the fence cluttered the image nor detracted fro the tree. For me, my eyes and thoughts first went to the tree, but then were invited by the fence to follow the curve of the path. The presence of the fence both raised my curiosity about where the path led as well added to the sense that the overall image was suggesting the presence of a “story.” The enjoyment of an admittedly wonderful capture of Nature’s beauty was enhanced by the feeling that there was a narrative waiting to be discovered. Love your channel.

  • @niftytwo
    @niftytwo 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    G’day Nigel. It’s great to follow your comp. ideas and it gives us more to think about our own ideas and helps in planning my shots. Always great ideas Nigel. Thank you. Stay safe.

  • @martharetallick204
    @martharetallick204 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nigel, one of the best bits of advice you have ever offered is this: Print your shots and annotate them. I started doing this and it has made an amazing difference in my photography.

  • @TMSultaniDesign
    @TMSultaniDesign 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Has beginner trees and flowers photography. Very impressive shots, it's well explained and I appreciate and understand how composition actually works. Thanks a lot.

  • @AAEdPhoto
    @AAEdPhoto 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This video is a great example of something that I think you taught me unintentionally, earlier. That is, that just because something doesn't look perfect in frame at the time doesn't mean there isnt a great photo in there. A huge part of me was completely disregarding some shots that maybe had something I didn't like in it. And I didn't really know how acceptable it was to just crop something out or edit it out. I'm excited to see someone talking honestly about what was right, what wasn't. It's nice to see pro talking about things they're happy with and what they wished was better and not being judgemental about the editing process.

  • @michaelmckeag960
    @michaelmckeag960 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    The next day with fog at 14:00 paired with its predecessor from the day before is the archetypical demonstration of the utility of fog.

  • @andrewrobertson444
    @andrewrobertson444 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This video has helped my composition so much, together with James Popsys' advice to ask yourself what it's about. Thank you.

  • @julieelliott7450
    @julieelliott7450 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great job on your critiquing. It is nice to get the camera specks/time of day/time it took. Enjoy watching !!!
    Love you have the prints.

  • @Raachen
    @Raachen 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Although I'm not a professional photographer or someone who uses professional software, I can absolutely relate to this!!! :)

  • @realworldambience9728
    @realworldambience9728 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very interesting topic, my thoughts are that you have great eye and are a perfectionist, this is why your work narrows down producing awesome images. Your constant research of the perfect balance between personal preferences and technique is what makes you a great photographer! Thank you for going through your lovely work with us and sharing your thoughts, a big thumbs up!

  • @Silithael
    @Silithael 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is so helpful! I often get the feelings that professional photographers just have the right composition in their blood and immediately know how and where to take THE photo. Seeing and hearing you explain the "faults" on several of your photos and mentioning that there are lots of "fails" for one photo that is "the one", is a relief! :D

  • @lesliewood8382
    @lesliewood8382 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    My musings for today... Your photos are magical and hint at a hidden story, they are 3 dimensional, and they show movement and can be exciting as well. Is there something else that a great photo can create? Oh yes, evoking a mood, and you nailed that one too! Now if I were asked to explain why I chose one photo over the other... I would say it just felt right..... Musings over.

  • @DanielleDeutschTV
    @DanielleDeutschTV 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just uploaded a video regarding actively looking to improve photo composition a few hours after you uploaded this and funny enough, yours showed up in the suggested feed on the side when I was previewing mine. I'm thankful because I might not have found your video otherwise. Nice work!!

  • @jcubedapps5256
    @jcubedapps5256 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love watching critiques! It is sooooooo helpful. Thank you Nigel!

  • @robertschwennicke7494
    @robertschwennicke7494 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This was very helpful, to hear you talk through your thought process and the work that went into each shot, both the great and the not so great. I would really appreciate more of these.

  • @xavierclaudel5614
    @xavierclaudel5614 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Like the fence on the 4' pic ! It drives your look to the open space on the right side just to help you to pass through the massive tree.

  • @debbiewnukoski4651
    @debbiewnukoski4651 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you very helpful. Love that you love taking pictures of woodlands.

  • @root9065
    @root9065 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    In this video: mind-blowing shots and this guy who says none of them work :D

  • @MatthiesWesche
    @MatthiesWesche 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love how you go into detail about your composition decisions, all the details that made you go for one composition or another ond how meticulously you're setting up your shots. Thos tree branches not intersecting with the horizon line is a small detail it seems, but I'm sure it makes a huge difference!
    Boy I've still got so much to learn and get into my brain until it's second nature...

  • @sven2336
    @sven2336 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Great video! Very encouraging. Luckily nowadays with digital cameras we can take many pictures and experiment with different compositions.
    That "wizard tree" must be one of my favorite pictures of yours. :)

  • @CGYPP
    @CGYPP 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    It takes courage to show some B-photos, but it shows that you are a true teacher and that you care not only about your growth but also about us viewers! Much appreciated!
    and btw. I think Fanal can be pretty frustrating, without fog it is actually so hard to take good photos, so much interesting twisted trees, but getting the composition right without the fog was nearly impossible for me...but I am glad you managed, the photos are stunningly beautiful!

  • @PeakHumanLife
    @PeakHumanLife 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love the example with the rock/seascape. When you show them one after each other it's so evident and point drives home instantly.
    Thank you :).

  • @Dizzynomads
    @Dizzynomads 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’ve been photographing since 2013, Just opposed of you I started portraits and are now very interested to start land/sea scapes. I have been watching your videos for quite some time and am very excited to start this new journey. Thank you for all your advice.

  • @anthonyplancherel8274
    @anthonyplancherel8274 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    This type of video is so helpful. Understanding your thought process of works and doesn't is priceless. Thank you Nigel. 👍🏻

  • @rolsonn
    @rolsonn 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great, thanks, Nigel! Learning more by hearing comments re: what works in an image helps a lot. I'm trying to take woodland photos in Massachusetts in the US and more difficult because many areas old growth or contain buildings, etc. However, now I pay more attention to the little things like space between trees, breathing room in the image and what do I see in the viewfinder. Once I get home I try to critique images and many never see the light of day.

  • @harald2072
    @harald2072 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very very useful video, thanks for the honesty it takes to go through things that "didn´t work". However the takes that "do work" leave me almost speechless 👏

  • @jakemcavoy2554
    @jakemcavoy2554 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    For a long time, I was unable to say if an image I took was working or not and didn’t know how to analyze it. It was helpless feeling, sort of like being stuck. I’ve watch 7 times and it’s just begun to make sense for the first time. I continue to learn how to see things in photos.

  • @BobG-eh5fc
    @BobG-eh5fc 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow, really appreciate you going over what works and what doesn't. Totally agree with what works and what doesn't, although you explaining it makes it more obvious.

  • @AlexRhodesMV
    @AlexRhodesMV 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I really enjoy this video. As other commenters have said, this is much more valuable to me than seeing nothing but "good" photos. Thanks for making this.

  • @MichaelSlaunwhite
    @MichaelSlaunwhite 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    The technical aspect of taking a photo is easily learned, exposure, sharpness, etc. I always like a photographers take on what worked but more so what didn't work and what they did to make it better. Thanks. I struggle with composition.

  • @haihongqi1741
    @haihongqi1741 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Quite inspirational !!!Soooo appreciated that you elaborated the process of shoting and what you think of these images . It is much more helpful than just seeing the master pieces after Photoshoped. Thank you so much!

  • @SchatzFamilyHF
    @SchatzFamilyHF 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks so much for doing this. Analyzing photos, good and especially bad (less good) helps with the thinking process when we are out there on the front line. It's the thinking, not the gear, that matters most.

  • @Lostsage01
    @Lostsage01 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I always appreciate you detailing your thoughts on why certain images work and others don’t. Great video and explanations, as always.
    For the shot at 11:00, to my eye I wonder if you could salvage it by cropping out the right hand 20-25% or so of the image so that the tree frames the low lying cloud in the background as the central focal point, closer to a 4:5 or square crop. Then the tree trunk works as a leading line to the center from the corner, and mostly eliminates the darker spot with the brown fern in the lower right. From there the complicated elements you mentioned that were bothering you just help frame the central negative space of the clouds.

  • @nicomphoto
    @nicomphoto 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    thanks for sharing all of this information Nigel. A joy to hear your share your thoughts on composition. Cheers

  • @benjamins7454
    @benjamins7454 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love your work, you're the only I found, who is speaking like that of what makes a great landscape photography !!!

  • @ostevoostevo1592
    @ostevoostevo1592 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video.I really enjoyed your compositions and pointing out what , in your opinion works and what doesn’t work. As regards the last photo in the video. I think what really makes the shot great is the wave crashing over the rock. It shows the movement of the sea and makes the photo dynamic.

  • @nrice3623
    @nrice3623 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Those are some great trees, what a cool place! Funny how easy it is to see your mistakes when you get home vs when you take the shot!

  • @ProfMary
    @ProfMary 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very helpful, Nigel! What a great idea to show what works and what doesn't. It does help me to look at my compositions more critically in the field. Thanks.

  • @cardin94
    @cardin94 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very good to see how you look at the pictures and your explanation. Sometimes i would love to see information on the lens, shutter speed, diaphragm etc.

  • @davidmill7289
    @davidmill7289 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think the snow shot with the fence that you feel is nearly there is actually really interesting Nigel. The fence gives an interest balance to the tree and takes your eye through the scene.

  • @panamafred1
    @panamafred1 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    The subtlety in your photos is very understated. Stripped to their essence. Every one draws an emotion. Nice.

  • @BrunoChalifour
    @BrunoChalifour 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nigel's choices of sceneries and his understanding and use of light are remarkable. Regarding composition, my feeling is that there is more work to be done about understanding composition before trying to teach anyone how to compose their images. This video is a little preposterous and probably should not have been made at this stage. We seem to be ending with rather simplistic images (in terms of composition and not as said before in terms of choice of subject and light which are both great), and some of the most interesting ones (ex.: 12'30") are dismissed, as if their relative complexity was too much to deal with, in favor of more obvious ones, most of the time dealing with central subjects or at least whose center of gravity is banally... in the center of the frame. There is little talk about (and little use) of the edges of the frame and of the corners (in spite of the fact that 12'30" shows good use of that but the quality of the results are not quite understood). The tension created by the details on the right edge of 12'30 add a welcome distraction and as a result tension with the two trees centered in the frame defined by the outer trees and branches. All this seems to illustrate how to fumble with composition without being able to draw any working concepts from the experience but approximative ideas of balance mostly organized around the center (which might be anything but typically creative).
    "Rock and Sea Stack" (16'26") is another good example: Nigel's keen sense of observation, of light, and choice of scenery are remarkable here again as in all the photographs he shows us. His observation of the movement of the waves and how they separate/underline the sea-stack is commendable... but in terms of composition we end with a very very predictable solution, a simplistic recipe used over and over again, systematically applied by many landscape photographers (especially commercial ones) regardless of the subject, light, and relationship of the photographer with the landscape. The cookie-cutter solution consist in placing an "object" (rock, flower, whatever detail of the landscape) in the foreground, another interesting element of the landscape in the background and photographing all that with a wide angle lens. If you want to have more systematic examples of this you can look at many photographs by a world-renowned family of American natural landscape photographers, the Muenches-the current one being David Muench-you will see exactly the same technique and approach. No personal feeling, no personal (and creative) response to the experience of the landscape. It is a safe recipe, it works for a pleasing commercial images but may lack any sophisticated compositional skills. [by the way I just exposed the underlying simple compositional principle of "Rock and Sea Stack"(and many, many other landscape photographs) that anyone and everyone can use with their own landscapes and sceneries. It is that simple... it is a simple principle that Nigel uses but does seem to have realized... it is a simple principle that may be more helpful for others than the idiosyncratic adjustments/solutions that he exposes but that only apply to a very specific iamge.
    PS: although many have a tendency (as proved by some feed-backs here) to poo-poo "the rule of thirds" which I would rather recommend as "the guidelines of thirds" (because they are no "rules" per se but tools to help image-makers get away from the center of the image, deal with 9 frames instead of one (the 4 lines of thirds define nine equal surfaces, each of the same proportions as the outer frame (the whole image), and make more complex, sophisticated and as a result personal and creative photographs -which is already pretty amazing. The same "guidelines" can then be applied to each of the nine surfaces (sub-rectangles in the case of a full-frame or APS-C sensor), on top of the original image to help any image-maker create a sophisticated composition, balance it with many possible solutionsUnder such an approach producing something personal and original becomes easy, simply because there are so many potential solutions, even in front of any given landscape, that every photographer will make different choices and produce different images, their images (not the emulation of somebody else's [emulation which, by the way, can be a good starting and training exercise but that should remain a tool and not an end. For instance, too many photographers have been stupidly emulating Michael Kenna's technique without ever bringing anything new to the table,-which is fine for an honest craftsman but problematic when some label themselves "fine-art photographers" which should include creativity and originality). The "lines of thirds (that, after some training and practice) can be mentally traced within the landscape itself and frame of the viewfinder or the rear screen of the camera are very useful crutches (in fact they are potentially so useful that most mirrorless cameras and rear screens of DSLRs can display them). They go far beyond the caricature that some give of them. Many who do probably do not understand their potential power and efficiency. As an example of that power and usefulness, just look at the monumental "Guernica" painting by Picasso (if Picasso can do it, there is possibly something to learn from it before dismissing it). And look for its underlying structure... you may find the "rule of thirds" there. Many who have stopped at an over-simplistic presentation or use of these rules/guidelines, have never worked intensely or at least enough with them to fully comprehend their potential (Nigel included, it seems to me).
    Before reacting to these words, please Google "Guernica" and see around what lines it was composed (using compositional techniques that can be traced back to (at least) 16th century painting). Obviously Picasso did not think there was anything wrong in using knowledge and techniques accumulated for centuries and at our disposal. We can agree that re-inventing the wheel takes time and not many will succeed. Then why not learn from our history, centuries of visual arts, and use the derived principles and adapt them to our times, use them the way we see fit?
    My advice: start simple with the guidelines of thirds, its 4 structural lines and the four strong points they define at their intersections, then play with them, tweak them to serve your purposes. Then start applying what you have learnt and practiced to any or each of the 9 smaller surfaces (rectangles for a full-frame camera, all having 2x3 proportions, just like the outer frame) defined by the line of thirds. They will help you balance the most complex images, will also help you to produce more original and sophisticated images, images that cannot be read in a few seconds, images that will invite the viewer to come back again and again.

  • @michaelhenson7511
    @michaelhenson7511 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Really like the composition in the "hook" tree around 14min mark. Love how it points down at the tree in the background fog. Wonderfully composed.

  • @mikejames5359
    @mikejames5359 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wonderful video Nigel, thanks. I've read many books on composition but this video really hit the spot for me and made me realise where I have often been going wrong in good locations. You have been very generous taking the time to show and talk through shots that worked and shots that didn't - and detailing exactly why that was so. One of your best ever !

  • @alexanderberg569
    @alexanderberg569 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    THX FOR THIS video. I am new to photography and compassion is a very hard work. I am glad I can lern it from guys like u. THX

  • @rokkarg
    @rokkarg 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    With the photo at 3:40 my eye appreciates the focal point on the tree but I’m actually drawn to the negative space to the right of the tree. I feel if you kept the tree framed similarly but maybe with a more wide angle to the right, the eye could explore what is going on to the right of the frame and it could be a fantastic shot. My brain keeps asking: what is over there?
    That’s my very very amateur opinion. Your photography is breathtaking and inspiring. Thank you for sharing your passion with us!

  • @SQUASHDICK
    @SQUASHDICK 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for such an illuminating video, Mr Danson! Your images are superb. I've enjoyed many of your videos and this one is excellent also. And one of the take home pearls I got was advice that you did not actually say explicitly- and that is to take the time and effort to get the image. It hit me when you said, "I took thousands that day" or "I spent 3 hours here". I will spend more time now and not give up so easily if I have a kernel of an image in my mind next outing.

  • @torstenbeckhaus1349
    @torstenbeckhaus1349 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’m quite grateful for your explanations! You manage to explain and show it in a way that’s easier to digest than many others or books do. Thanks!! I hope I can apply at least some of your composition rules!!

  • @arcticdryas
    @arcticdryas 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I found your channel recently, and am so glad for how you show the process and what does work and what doesn't! Also appreciated how you said how many pictures you take and how few of them are 'good' - makes me feel better about my giant unusable collection!

  • @wolfgangwiesinger9593
    @wolfgangwiesinger9593 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for this video. Your spot scouting, motive finding and composition reviews are the most important steps to gain fotografic levels.

  • @tomassantos4299
    @tomassantos4299 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This was quit helpful. It’s gave me some perspective on composing and simplifying things. Hope you enjoyed Madeira. Greetings from Portugal 🇵🇹 and Madeira

    • @BenelliMr
      @BenelliMr 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      going to Madeira was right. Your biggest mistake: you also bought a return ticket :)

  • @AdventuressAli
    @AdventuressAli 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I enjoy your videos for how relaxing they are, going to beautiful places and just chilling with you in a hectic too-fast cut world.
    But now we're getting free high end classes too. Thank you, really helpful I hope. Definitely something I had to think about a LOT in the early days of film and travel where carrying and even finding film was difficult. Couldn't go take loads of shots at one spot to play with composition and settings and just try things. One shot often... Especially when I'd go and forget to even get more film!! Hahaha. Excellent for learning to look first, take time, but difficult for learning to explore angles and options.

  • @jamesmgreg
    @jamesmgreg 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you Nigel, one of your best and most informative videos. Being objectively self-critical is hard, but knowing why an image does or does not work is really important.
    In terms of composition, I find that ‘asking’ every element in the image why it is there or what its purpose is, really helps to drill down into a composition that may work.

  • @jackarigho617
    @jackarigho617 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Nigel, another great informative and inspirational video. I seem to have a problem with composition. I never know what will work and what won't, so this video is really helpful.
    Thanks again
    Jack