The Elephant in Our Images

[Michael_2010]

Believe it or not, I probably took about 50 shots of the following subject. The whole purpose was to gain a better understanding of composition. I would shift and tilt the camera with each shot and then examine the impact of the resultant photo. It seems to help me to work with something in a controlled environment, while I explore the camera’s capabilities conjoined with basic compositional skills.

This close-up of a cork screw employs the Rule of Thirds, Leading Lines, Depth of Field control, lighting, contrast, reflections, etc. Doing this sort of exercise gives me experience with my equipment and sharpens my eye, when I am in the field sizing up a location.

[RichardTaylor]

Michael,
That's a great way to learn. Try some Capsicum/Bell Peppers as per Edward Weston..
It's an eye opener.

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Apologies to those who have seen this on my Flickr stream.

Even when the light is not great (this was very overcast/light rainy day), and I may have had my umbrella up whilst shooting this one, you can sometimes use objects and shadows to help frame the scene. This is not a set up shot, it's a candid.

[LeeR]

I agree wholeheartedly, Michale_2010, slow studious effort prepares us for the situations when we must move quickly.