Signs and People and Composition, Oh My!

[whereisjohnwilson]

I didn't have much time to snap this as the two folks in the background walked away. I really like this picture, but I can't put my finger on why. Maybe it's because it is one of the first photos I took with my new 55-250mm lens my wife got me for Christmas (I'm a new photographer).

Given very little time to snap the photo, how would have you set it up?



Camera: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi
Exposure: 1/3200 sec
Aperture: f/5.6
Focal Length: 187 mm
ISO Speed: 800
Exposure Bias: 0 EV
Flash: Off, Did not fire
Measurement Flare: 0.999%
Measurement Illuminant: D65
Orientation: Horizontal (normal)
Host Computer: Mac OS X 10.6.2
Exposure Program: Aperture-priority AE
Date and Time (Original): 2010:01:10 16:04:21
Date and Time (Digitized): 2010:01:10 16:04:21
Metering Mode: Spot
Exposure Mode: Auto
White Balance: Auto
Scene Capture Type: Standard

[dcclark]

I like the composition. You have a clear subject, and it also leads my eye towards the people in the background. The lines of the shadows are pleasant and warm, and most of the colors are nice and subtle.

What I think that this photo may be missing -- and it's up to you to decide this -- is some sort of "punchline". The sign and the people, while interesting, aren't really connected in any way. I sort of expect to see someone with a beer, on a bike, or something like that. You don't HAVE to have such a thing, but it would be a nice connection between the sign and people, which would help to hold the photo together.

That's my idea. Overall, very nice!

[wannabephotographer]

I agree. Would have been great to have a dog pissing on the sign!