Page 8 - Phonebox Magazine June 2024

Olney Camera Club
to the Phone Camera and Beyond!
We mentioned in this column previously that the best camera is the one you have with you, and that is likely your smartphone, right? Good news! The techniques of image composition haven’t changed. Here, we reveal some image composition guidelines to help you create better images when you tire of selfies. Smartphones with good camera functions come at a price, and with each new model they improve. They are all compromised to some degree, but manage to provide a useable image quality and functionality in a unit which is easy to lug about.
Here are a few tried and tested compositional techniques and styles for you to try out:
The rule of thirds: This ubiquitous ‘rule’ is more of a guideline; it can help you take appealing photos. Basically, subjects and other points of interest can be positioned on grid intersections in your frame that split it into thirds vertically and horizontally. This helps to draw the viewer into the image. Often, you can turn on this viewfinder grid in the camera settings, so you don’t even have to imagine it! However, establishing a balance in the image may mean we must disregard this rule.
Leading lines: These pass through different parts of the image and draw the viewer’s eye inward. Bridges, roads and paths are all great for this. One of our competition judges once commented that these lines should ideally not pass exactly through an image corner - fancy that.
Flat lay: Often used for food/lifestyle shots. You arrange objects on a surface and shoot them from directly above. Make it still life art – not your meal! Pay attention to lighting.
Landscapes: If you take a wide-angle shot, include a point of interest in the near distance, for example, a sunrise/sunset picture with a herd of elephants in the foreground. With landscapes, try to obtain front-to-back sharpness if a smaller aperture setting is available. If the scenery is the star, don’t include distracting people in the shot unless they are relevant.
Tightly cropped: Try really low, tightly cropped, close-up images of objects.
Backlight: This is when you shoot your subject with the sun directly behind. This is difficult because the sun is so bright, but it can be really effective! This is one situation where it’s generally OK to clip your highlights.
Portraits: Generally, eye level or above is most used for portraits. Looking down at the subject can be effective sometimes, but not everyone looks good like that! Below eye level can be used to bestow power or strength in the subject. Always try to avoid distorting a human subject’s face.
Finally, remember that all these are just suggestions, not rules. Composition is a way for you to express your own individual creativity and win good critique. Always be ready to try new things!
Cherry Fair returns
There’s a packed programme of events at this year’s Olney Cherry Fair again, with something for everyone featuring at the Glebe Field show.
With Olney Brass Band, Olney Middle School Choir and country dancing, there is plenty of music to be enjoyed. You’ll also find a dog show, coconut shy, bouncy castle, games, and activities. Refreshments will be provided by a barbecue, tea and cake tent and Pimm’s stalls.
This annual event is a traditional English fair, with its roots going back hundreds of years and Olney’s cherry-producing industry. Local schools, groups, clubs and businesses all join in to help raise money for charity. You can even climb inside the bell tower of nearby St Peter & St Paul Church.
“We have some fabulous stalls lined up this year, offering everything from handmade gifts to cherry chocolate beetroot smoothies,” says Susan Heron of the Fair’s organising committee.
“We have some great things lined up for the arena and lots of activities and games. Don’t forget to bring your canine friend to take part in our dog show.” 8 Phonebox Magazine | June 2024
Capella Di Vitaletta
Next Meetings:
Americano
Wed 19th June: Social Walkabout: Scavenger Hunt. Meet 7pm at Olney Market Place. 1 hour roam with your camera phone. Meet again afterwards to share images.
Wed 26th June: Print Competition, round 2 of 4. Starts 8pm at the Olney Centre.
Wed 31st July: Talk by Simon Turnbull – “Can’t see the wood for the trees”. Starts 8pm at the Swan Inn & Bistro.
See our ‘gallery’ and check further meeting details on our website at www.olneycameraclub.co.uk
For info, call Andy Tel. 01234 714570 or info@olneycameraclub.co.uk
Cherry Fair: when and where: Sunday 30th June
Gates open 12pm with official opening by the mayor at 12.15pm Address: Church Street, Olney, MK46 4AD Admission: Adults £2, Inder-16s: Free For more details, email info@olneycherryfair.org.uk.