Breaking the Rule

[Kelly24]

I took this picture earlier today and deliberately broke the rule of focusing on the eyes. Instead I chose to focus on the nose just to be a rebel.

At first I really liked the picture but the more I look at it the more I'm wondering if I should have stuck to the rules and focused on Dexter's eyes rather than his nose. I'm looking for general criticism of the shot but also I'm curious if the photo is appealing to you with the change in focus? Or does it just looks like the work of someone who has forgotten the golden rule of always focusing on the eyes.

Thanks in advance folks!


IMG_1732 (640x512) by Kelly K24, on Flickr

Canon EOS Digital Rebel
f/1.8
1/50 sec exposure
ISO speed 200
focal length 50mm

[karen_s]

FIrst, Dexter looks like such a little cutie. He's really got a sweet loving expression.

Second, while a good attempt to try something different, I have to say it doesn't work that great for me. Here's why ... The nose is very dark and filled with heavy blacks and as a result, lacks texture and interest. Since there is not a lot there to capture my eye, I move on to his eyes and they are blurry. It's as if the nose and eyes are competing but neither really hold on to my attention. I do think this shot might have been better focused on the eyes because Dexter has a some serious sweetness there. His nose doesn't offer the same expression. Noses are like that.

Anyway, you might try this technique again but make it bolder. If you are gonna break rules, be intentional and really break them. Get as close to the nose as your lens allows and try to get more light on the nose to bring out it's texture. You might also try making the nose a larger part of the image. You might try upping the ISO a tad too to allow for a slightly faster shutter speed. (When I take photos of my dogs sitting or laying around, I try for at least 100.) I do think this can work though so don't give up. Keep experimenting and you will find something that works.

[Kelly24]

Thank you Karen, that was very helpful advice, I appreciate the time you took to help me out! As I was reading your comment it hit me that what you were saying was exactly what was bugging me about the picture.

I think next weekend I'll try and take the shot again, focusing on his eyes this time. As well, I'm going to try what you suggested, see if I can break the rules and make it interesting.