I think that was the best photography tutorial I have ever seen, clear, concise and informative and all without shouting and loud music too. Please make more videos.
Goodness me, Anthony; thank you; that comment means a lot to me. Now our season is over, I have a couple of ideas in mind for future videos. Watch this space! :-)
It's very rare that a video about photography convinces me as much as yours, Peter. And this from a guy who has been taking photographs for almost 70 years (that's me;-)))
Thank you for your kind comment. It's encouraging and motivates me to do more. I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
@@peterevans6086 Thank you! 🙏 We've been leaning more on photography lately, I really think of myself as having a natural gift towards composition, but I've identified a few areas to improve after watching your video. Also found out how I could have made some of my recent pictures better, but now it's too late to fix in post 🥲 Again, thank you and please post more! Cheers!
I was about to leap on here and say this is simply the best video on photographic composition I have ever seen… and then looked at the other comments and saw everybody else had beaten me to it! Congratulations on delivering this masterclass in a very clear and beautifully illustrated manner. No waffle, no grandstanding, and even the title is clear, concise and without click-bait. This is one of the rare diamonds that makes UA-cam worth mining.
Wow thank you, Richard! I'm glad you enjoyed it and I hope it was useful to you. The diamond analogy is very kind and much appreciated. I'm not sure how deep the seam goes, mind you; we'll see when my next video gets published - coming soon to a screen near you ;-)
This is by far (by very far) the best video on composition I have ever seen. In my opinion, if you only could see one video to learn photography this would be it! 👏👏👏👏👏👏
From an 83 year old who knew what i had learned while using a 35mm film SLR: I thought I knew it all until watching this video. You have opened my eyes to so many ‘rules’ that I had never considered. Thank you so much.
You're very welcome; I'm pleased that you have a new way of 'seeing'. However, apart from the absolute rule of having a Point of Interest, I prefer to think not of 'rules' but rather of 'guides' (remember that Oscar Wilde quotation!) Good luck with your future photography and I hope I've been able to help you get a higher percentage of 'wall-hangers' :-)
I’m speechless ! I’ve watched and studied many photography tutorial to improve on my photography but this was BY FAR, and I’m not even exaggerating, the BEST one I’ve ever seen. Sir Peter Evans, I thank you for this amazing tutorial. I’ll be a lot more conscientious of these 15 elements moving forward. Again, thank you 🙏🏾
Wow, my goodness! Thank you for those very kind comments. And as for thanking me, you're most welcome. Helping people improve their photography is what I'm here for.
One of the best short photography tutorials I have ever seen. Explained in plain English and with well chosen examples to make it even simpler. Well, simpler to understand but I suspect putting it all into practice will require a lot more, well, practice. Thank you.
One of the best photographer's on UA-cam, Let me explain, The bridge photograph depicts a woman crossing an elegantly designed Bridge, However the woman caring the bags has a rather nostalgic look about her which sets the picture off. Absolutely stunning !
Wow, thank you so much for that Eljin! That photo is one of my favourites. I had the idea for the image after coming across the location by accident and falling in love those lamps. So I went back there the following week when the weather forecast was for an early evening with cloudless skies. With the image in my head, I stood on the riverside with my DSLR and 400mm lens and waited for the right person to walk over the bridge. I gave myself a maximum of an hour to get the shot. After 55 minutes of no-one anywhere near suitable arriving, and on the point of driving home after a wasted trip, this woman appeared. I couldn't believe it; it was as if she'd walked out of some 1950's movie! My wife and I call it my 'Meryl Streep' photo. Many people have said how lucky I was to get the shot, but I've always believed that, most of the time, you make your own luck ;-)
The photograph of the lady in red sitting on a curb is absolutely gorgeous. Beautiful image. I love it! All of your images are great, but this particular one immediately caught my eye; it's got everything in it a photograph should have, composition, emotion, you name it, it's there. Great job!
Thank you for the kind words, Guy. But a large part of the image's success is due to my model. Not only is she beautiful and intelligent (with a degree in law and speaking French, English, Spanish, and Basque) but she also studied drama in Paris and Los Angeles. In any situation, a brief explanation of what I'm looking for is all it takes for her to give me exactly the shot I'm after.
This video has been popping up in my feed for a few days now and I had it saved to my watch later because I was struck by the image in the thumbnail…but I couldn’t put my finger on WHY. Now that I’ve had time to watch and hear all your points I totally see it. Great video, thank you!!!
Thank you Cory I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
It’s THE Best Master Class I had ever watched without batting my eyelid. Using the right examples, the right words, right volume, no animation, no music, no calls to share. This class was just like your photography. This will go into the Master Pieces section of my digital library. 🏆Thanks a million, Peter, for putting this together.
Merci de partager vos connaissances en photographies. Vous êtes un excellent enseignant. C’est net, précis et concis. J’espère que vous allez continuer. Merci beaucoup
I woke up this morning with absolutely no plans to watch a full photography tutorial. In an hour I have to catch a flight… yet the image on youtube attracted my attention.. I ended up watching the whole video… it was quite revealing… thank you for sharing your thoughts
@@peterevans6086 I have tried for years Peter. Think I've managed just 2 or 3 wall-hangers (one of them being my profile image of my old policedog). In 20 years as as hard as I try, I struggle at being average. I would enrol in your workshop in a heartbeat if you were near. Just sub'd to you channel
Thank you, John! I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
I can't formulate it any better than all previous comments, but this is the best , clearest, most pedagogical tutorial on composition I have seen. Looking forward to seeing more from you Peter. Thanks for this brilliant video.
You're welcome, and thank you very much for the very kind comment. I'm really pleased that you enjoyed it. I have something a little different in preparation at the moment, so watch this space ;-)
It is one of the most organized and concise forms of presenting the rules of composition that I have seen. Given that I know all these rules of composition, but the way of presentation is perfect, fluid and coherent. With examples, with everything you need. Congratulations and I'm waiting for other videos.
What a great intro into photography. As a 68 yo engineer, who has had to take photos for work, the ONLY element I figured out on my own was: control the background. Now, that I see these 15 elements, they all make SO much sense. Great description and great examples. Thanks so much.
Peter, your photos are superb and it is truly a pleasure just looking at them. However, you take this to a new level with your superb analysis of what makes a great composition. I will watch this video more than once because it inspires me so much and there is so much to learn.
Your point about picture ratios was my hook. I've been trying to convince members of my club of this for years. I literally shouted YES when you said to not worry about the ratio as long as the image looks good. I immediately subscribed.
Outstanding tutorial on composition, thank you. Some things I knew, and try to apply, others often forget to look for and then see my error in post, other I was completely oblivious to but were ah-ha moments during your presentation. I have to say the image of the model in the red dress is just perfect. I immediately was drawn to her expression and said to myself "well she looks like she's just had enough of whatever is going on" and then to hear your instruction for her to set the emotion of the scene.... Fantastic. Best composition tutorial by streets. Bravo.
Hi Hank (if I may call you that ?) ;-) Thank you very much indeed for your kind comment. It literally made my day because it came in last night around 23h CET, just 2 hours after a comment from @MHolt9999 that talked about my lack of empathy for the model (if in fact he did realise she was a model; perhaps he thought it was some random girl I stumbled across). Anyway, I'm absolutely delighted that you 'got it' in one. That means an awful lot to me. Thank you again.
A very good tutorial, just like what many have said - clear, succinct, and easy to understand. I hope you can produce more tutorials like this about photography! I would love to learn about the technical aspects of photography too. Thanks!
Your video has popped up in my "suggested" feeds for about a week now, and I finally viewed it. Wow, just wow. I was aware of some dynamics you pointed out; some I intrinsically knew from experience, and others were beyond obvious (once you pointed them out). As someone who's been taking photos for over 50 years (I'm 74), thanks for making me eager to run outside and take more photos to see how well I absorbed your knowledge. Thank you!
I learned so much from this. Thanks...What I loved was how you perfectly(=clearly and concisely) explained and illustrated all the elements of composition. Again a BIG Thanks and a Huge "Thumbs Up".
This is a masterclass with clear, concise and useful information. The presentation and execution were excellent. I am sure this is a lot of work but would love to see more.
What a fantastic review of concepts when taking a picture,plus, you included more than ten aspects that I had learn while taking pictures. Thank you for such incredible session of photography and how to make your own pictures more atractive. Magnifico...
Hi Peter, I just want to tell you that this is a brilliant master class of composition. I had seen a lot of videos and this is far away the most comprehensive a clear to have a clear image what does mean the composition. Congrat for your excellent class.
Peter thank you for that real lesson in composition! This is an extremely high value video and I thank you for sharing your great depth of knowledge with all of us.
The most concise, informative video on composition. Really hit home with me, now I'm off to photograph and start putting these elements into practice. Definitely made me click the "subscribe" button. Thanks, looking forward to more videos.
You're welcome, Thomas. And thank you for your kind comment; I'm glad the video was both helpful and motivating! As to more videos, I'm working on one as we speak, so watch this space ;-)
A singularly excellent tutorial on composition. I haven’t even touched my camera in the last two weeks but I feel like I’ve just levelled up my photography. Thank you.
this material is not only essential, but examples of many real life scenarios and dilemma of photography . excellent material whatever your technical skill or artistic mind
Excellent tutorial! Clear and pedagogical, with very nice examples and counterexamples, covering many concepts in a short time. Bravo!😊 Hope to see more material in the future.
Thank you Peter... this guide is well designed and thought through. You've given us a set of briliant examples of what work and what does not work.and what has the potential to work as a wall-hanger... thanks.
I really appreciate that comment, Johan; it makes the time spent making the video worthwhile. I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
Such a great video! One of the best videos I've seen on photography I've seen. Wish I had this when I was first starting. I'm learning a lot from you! Thank you. I could listen and learn about composition for hours day and years, and still not be able to master it hah
Thank you very much for your kind comment. I'll be uploading more videos in the not too distant future. I've just added a link to a PDF in the details above which you can use as an Aide Memoire if you wish ;-)
Thank you. Helping other people improve their photography is my passion and to see that some children are going to gain something from this video means the work making it has been truly worthwhile.
I think this is a wonderful video that so many should watch, even those who feel they are beyond beginner. Thank you. One point I’d make on motion space is intention. It may be that your target audience would find it over complicated but rather than leaving room to move my first question is whether I want to show them leaving or going. It may be helpful for others to consider this along with the safe advice of leaving space to move into, to consider if there is greater impact showing departure, necessitating space behind. Thanks for putting this together. It’s something I’ll bookmark and send people to view!
You're very welcome and thank you for your kind comment. Your suggestion re leaving space is something I hadn't considered before; I'll have to give it some thought
You're welcome, Sidney, and thank you very much for your comment; I'm glad you found the tutorial useful. I'm actually working on a new video as we speak, so watch this space ;-}
Thanks, I have seen hundreds of UA-cam sessions and read many articles as well as participated in numerous workshops just to comprehend composition logic. Some 2 years ago I came across your UA-cam channel and enjoyed your excellent deliberation. I wish you bring some more of the same!
Thank you. I will try! I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
Thank you for the compliment, Ulrich. I made and uploaded this video purely so that I could give the link to my photography guests and have them use it as an Aide Memoire after their photography workshop here. So, frankly, I've been absolutely astonished to see how widely it's been accepted and appreciated. I now feel a responsibility to make more, so watch this space! ;-) BTW, it seems we share a love of the Blues :-)
I learned so much and everything you taught makes the photos really interesting. At the end of the video you summarized elements of composition for the photo of your lovely model but you stated you did not include the rules of 3. However you actually did! You have 3 poles to the right of the model! Nice job!
Thanks Leo; I'm glad you found the video useful. As to the posts behind Lise-Marie, when I processed the image, I did see that there were three of those visible (just about) but they don't really contribute anything to the composition (in the same way as, for example, the images shown at 24:33, 24:37, and 24:48). However, I did debate with myself as to whether or not I should claim the full 15, but decided it was a bit of a stretch to do so! ;-)
Hello Peter. Wow...This is a super useful instructions which I am looking for my next trip. There are a lot of tutorials out there but your explanation is very easy to understand for a newbie like me. The Hook keyword is great! Thank you for sharing :)
@@peterevans6086 Music is a big part of my life… choral singing, an a cappella quartet, our band “the seldom heard”, daily guitar, a guitar quartet.. What about you?
Sorry Thomas, I've only just seen this. I play in a Blues and classic rock band here in France and sometimes join in with another similar band when invited. We are two Brits, one Irish, one American, and one French. I'm known for my 5 string Open G stuff 😜
@@peterevans6086 What an international group! I sometimes play a 5 string open G banjo but I don't think that's the instrument you have in mind! I'm still appreciating your inspiring photo lecture, I'm going through 20 years accumulated digital photos, editing the ones I like and gathering them to see if I have a collection worth culling together for my friends and family. Cheers! Tom
Goodness me! Thank you Helmut. I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
Tres bien. Thanks Peter, an excellent thesis on composition that IMO 95% of photographers (100% of newbies) would do well to watch, learn and practice - if they wish to improve. I have been shooting as a serious and successful amateur for 40+ years (enjoying international awards, had the occasional image published, done a few paid assignments etc), but mostly shoot for fun). I can relate positively to almost everything you say, so I liked and subscribed. It was an excellent recap for me, well illustrated by many attractive images (perhaps no 'wall hangers' but that's subjective). Totally agree it's best not to obsess. I personally like to break the 'rules' aka guidelines, on occasion (good I think) which if nothing else can be amusing 'judge bait'. I, like you, started with slide film so quickly learnt that getting the framing/composition, right in camera, was vital rather than a post shoot option. A few minor points or quibbles from me - rule of odds!? One of my 'pet hates' is judges why occasionally, dogmatically, criticise an image because it contains an even number of whatever, rather than 1, 3, 5, 7 etc. It's not a prime number competition. I'd sooner reflect on that as the absolute last detail that might somehow be important, but consider all other point more worthy of consideration. It's up there with judges (in landscape work) stating that a closed field gate somehow blocks their eye from progressing into an image. Perhaps the easiest way to have your image(s) really stand out and command attention is to show something that is new, different, seldom seen or, ideally, new, innovative, radical etc and perhaps tells an empathetic story too. But with so many pics around it gets ever harder to see from a new creative perspective. But I try to make it one of my goals. Looking ultra low/high etc, perhaps with an ultra wide (complete with distortion of near/edge subjects) or macro, shift or tele lens can help. I just bought a Sony a9iii in quest of ultra dramatic sports shots and to experiment with flash and a global shutter to help subjuects 'pop' in daylight. Possibly one area you didn't cover (albeit I'm certain you understand) is the impotance of tonality. Our eyes are drawn to brighter subjects and tend to neglect the shadows. So, background highlights and bright objects near edge of frame or corners can easily distract. Withouyt looking too unnatural I try to ensure that important faces are brighter and models don't typically wear white. \post adjustments for tonality can help make composition better too. On your image of model and tram, for instance, I felt the traffic light at exteme LHS in green was a tad distracting. This may have benefitted from a little post editing - cloning, cropping (but maybe then too tight) or tonal darkening. It's me being ultra 'nit picky' as I like the image. But what do you think? But overall, one of the very best guides to composition that I have seen.
Thanks for the like and the subscription, Ricky, and also your input. I've made a living from photography (just about!) for very many years and never once entered a competition so I can't comment on the mindset of photo competition judges. I'm also a bit anti the idea of one image being 'better' than another. The 'Rule of odds' is step too far for me; IMHO once you get beyond three, the concept becomes over-complicated and pretentious. The concept of Threes is different however because it exists all around us in visual, written, and musical content creation. For some reason, we humans seem to have a liking for the concept of 'Three'. A few examples are the pawnbroker's sign, nursery rhymes like 'Three Blind Mice' and 'Three Little Pigs', the Holy Trinity, Triptychs, three act plays, three movements in concertos, and so on. In art and design, three objects are the first number to form a pattern, and the human brain likes patterns. Hence its inclusion in my 15 elements. Tone is something I don't see as a compositional element; I agree that it's important but, for me, it's more to do with mood, or punch. As to the tram shot, I left the traffic light there deliberately as it's part of the setting and it balances and harmonises with the two other greens in the image (the model's dress and the grass). But. as you say, everything is subjective. Your desire to "experiment with flash to help subjects 'pop' in daylight" was of particular interest as I'm currently working on a new video that discusses that very thing (amongst others) Anyway, thank you again for your input and I wish you well with your new camera.
This is a great video, I wanted to explain how I photograph to my daughter. This video explains it well and concisely, wish the UA-cam algorithm is smart enough to get this recommended to others.
I used to be a member of the RPS after getting two distinctions in Black and White photography in the `film only` days before digital even came out. Every shot had to be deliberate and thought out to get the composition and all other aspects spot on. I have just realised that I lost sight along the way after going digital. The part that especially got me was the looking space and moving space. Thanks for your video. It has got me back along the right tracks again. By the way, I`m getting back into film again with an Olympus OM10 and just the standard 50mm lens. I just love going out and only having 24 frames for a whole day of shooting. From a fellow Blues guitaist -Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.
You're more than welcome, Steve. I'm pleased I've been able to help you get you back on track! I think you're very brave to be going back to film; I was glad to see the back of it (too many hours of my life spent in a darkroom - years, in fact, if I were to add them all up). But whilst the processing side has been a massive boon for me, I feel that the equipment issue is getting out of hand, becoming so unnecessarily complicated over the last ten years as to become a real hindrance to the many people attending my workshops.
@@peterevans6086 Thanks and I agree. It`s all about megapixels and fast lenses these days. The race is on to find the best camera but that isn`t the point. There`s too many videos on youtube that fixate on pixel peeping and lens abberation etc. What they don`t do is tell you how to take a good photo. A good photographer can take a fantastic picture with a basic point and shoot camera. I still have an old EOS350D which is 8.1megapixels and it produces amazing results. Ansell Adams said “There is nothing worse than a sharp image of a fuzzy concept.”
I must point out that there ARE 3 elements in this picture: the model obviously, her shoe and the posts behind her. They are sharp and add to the image. If you remove the posts, or the shoe, it would be less strong, with something missing. While I knew all of these rules, and use them, it never occurred to me to put so many of them in one picture. I will also say I think that was one of the best photography tutorias I have ever seen: clear, concise and informative (and all without shouting and loud music). I see you have been in Antwerp, the city where I live. Nice pictures overall!
Thank you for your kind comment, Thierry. You know, you're one of several people who have made a similar comment regarding the 'Rule of Threes', but I have to confess that yours is the most compelling yet. I'm almost persuaded ;-) Jill and I have a good friend who lives in Antwerp; it's a truly beautiful city.
Your kind comment is much appreciated. I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
Great Tutorial, till now I haven't ever watched such kind of information, thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge Mr Peter, make more videos on photography and if possible on cinematography too and help people who cant afford film school . Love from my side.❤
I think that was the best photography tutorial I have ever seen, clear, concise and informative and all without shouting and loud music too. Please make more videos.
Goodness me, Anthony; thank you; that comment means a lot to me. Now our season is over, I have a couple of ideas in mind for future videos. Watch this space! :-)
It's very rare that a video about photography convinces me as much as yours, Peter. And this from a guy who has been taking photographs for almost 70 years (that's me;-)))
Thank you for your kind comment. It's encouraging and motivates me to do more.
I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
This video deserves to go viral among photographers! I have never seen such a concise but thorough tutorial on composition!
Wow, thank you for your kind comment. I just watched your 'Trash the Dress' video with Ana and Radu. Impressive !
@@peterevans6086 Thank you! 🙏 We've been leaning more on photography lately, I really think of myself as having a natural gift towards composition, but I've identified a few areas to improve after watching your video. Also found out how I could have made some of my recent pictures better, but now it's too late to fix in post 🥲 Again, thank you and please post more! Cheers!
And non photographers. 📸📸📸📸
Forget photography for a second. Your teaching and presentation skills are insane! Very captivating and you can tell you are a natural
Thank you for that very kind comment.
I was about to leap on here and say this is simply the best video on photographic composition I have ever seen… and then looked at the other comments and saw everybody else had beaten me to it! Congratulations on delivering this masterclass in a very clear and beautifully illustrated manner. No waffle, no grandstanding, and even the title is clear, concise and without click-bait. This is one of the rare diamonds that makes UA-cam worth mining.
Wow thank you, Richard! I'm glad you enjoyed it and I hope it was useful to you. The diamond analogy is very kind and much appreciated. I'm not sure how deep the seam goes, mind you; we'll see when my next video gets published - coming soon to a screen near you ;-)
This is by far (by very far) the best video on composition I have ever seen. In my opinion, if you only could see one video to learn photography this would be it! 👏👏👏👏👏👏
Wow, thank you, Roberto! Very much appreciated !
From an 83 year old who knew what i had learned while using a 35mm film SLR: I thought I knew it all until watching this video. You have opened my eyes to so many ‘rules’ that I had never considered. Thank you so much.
You're very welcome; I'm pleased that you have a new way of 'seeing'. However, apart from the absolute rule of having a Point of Interest, I prefer to think not of 'rules' but rather of 'guides' (remember that Oscar Wilde quotation!) Good luck with your future photography and I hope I've been able to help you get a higher percentage of 'wall-hangers' :-)
I’m speechless ! I’ve watched and studied many photography tutorial to improve on my photography but this was BY FAR, and I’m not even exaggerating, the BEST one I’ve ever seen. Sir Peter Evans, I thank you for this amazing tutorial. I’ll be a lot more conscientious of these 15 elements moving forward. Again, thank you 🙏🏾
Wow, my goodness! Thank you for those very kind comments. And as for thanking me, you're most welcome. Helping people improve their photography is what I'm here for.
One of the best short photography tutorials I have ever seen. Explained in plain English and with well chosen examples to make it even simpler. Well, simpler to understand but I suspect putting it all into practice will require a lot more, well, practice. Thank you.
You're very welcome Alan. And thank you for the kind comment. You know what they say about practice... ;-)
@@peterevans6086 Just got back from 10 days on Skye and am already looking at my photos with a new eye. Thanks.
Great to hear! 👍
One of the best photographer's on UA-cam, Let me explain, The bridge photograph depicts a woman crossing an elegantly designed Bridge, However the woman caring the bags has a rather nostalgic look about her which sets the picture off. Absolutely stunning !
Wow, thank you so much for that Eljin! That photo is one of my favourites. I had the idea for the image after coming across the location by accident and falling in love those lamps. So I went back there the following week when the weather forecast was for an early evening with cloudless skies. With the image in my head, I stood on the riverside with my DSLR and 400mm lens and waited for the right person to walk over the bridge. I gave myself a maximum of an hour to get the shot. After 55 minutes of no-one anywhere near suitable arriving, and on the point of driving home after a wasted trip, this woman appeared. I couldn't believe it; it was as if she'd walked out of some 1950's movie! My wife and I call it my 'Meryl Streep' photo. Many people have said how lucky I was to get the shot, but I've always believed that, most of the time, you make your own luck ;-)
The photograph of the lady in red sitting on a curb is absolutely gorgeous. Beautiful image. I love it! All of your images are great, but this particular one immediately caught my eye; it's got everything in it a photograph should have, composition, emotion, you name it, it's there. Great job!
Thank you for the kind words, Guy. But a large part of the image's success is due to my model. Not only is she beautiful and intelligent (with a degree in law and speaking French, English, Spanish, and Basque) but she also studied drama in Paris and Los Angeles. In any situation, a brief explanation of what I'm looking for is all it takes for her to give me exactly the shot I'm after.
This video has been popping up in my feed for a few days now and I had it saved to my watch later because I was struck by the image in the thumbnail…but I couldn’t put my finger on WHY. Now that I’ve had time to watch and hear all your points I totally see it. Great video, thank you!!!
Thank you Cory
I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
i have watched so many tutorials and photography youtube movies, but none of them convinced me as much as yours, thank you Peter
Wow, thanks! I really appreciate that comment.
This video has a chockful of principles on photography composition not seen in other videos. This is an excellent tutorial. Thank you, Mr Evans.
You're welcome! I'm glad you found it useful
It’s THE Best Master Class I had ever watched without batting my eyelid. Using the right examples, the right words, right volume, no animation, no music, no calls to share. This class was just like your photography.
This will go into the Master Pieces section of my digital library. 🏆Thanks a million, Peter, for putting this together.
Wow! Goodness me, Mohammed. Thank you! And you're very welcome, by the way.
Merci de partager vos connaissances en photographies. Vous êtes un excellent enseignant. C’est net, précis et concis. J’espère que vous allez continuer. Merci beaucoup
De rien, Sellig. Et merci beaucoup pour votre commentaire, vous êtes très gentil. Je travaille actuellement sur ma prochaine vidéo ;-)
For me, this is the best tutorial on composition that I have seen. Thank you for sharing it Peter. ❤
You're welcome. Thank you for your kind comment; I'm glad you liked it and, hopefully, found it useful
Wow, probably one of the best guides about photography I've seen in a while! Would love to see more from you!
Thank you very much for your kind comment. I'll see what I can do! ;-)
I woke up this morning with absolutely no plans to watch a full photography tutorial. In an hour I have to catch a flight… yet the image on youtube attracted my attention.. I ended up watching the whole video… it was quite revealing… thank you for sharing your thoughts
I'm glad my point of interest got you 'hooked' ;-)
I hope you didn't miss your flight!
One of the best tips on composition I have ever come across
Thank you, Narayanan. I'm glad you liked it.
The most enlightening and detailed and in-depth sharing I have seen ever!
Wow Alan. Really? That's very kind. Thank you
EXCELLENT INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO. VERY WELL DONE. WATCHING FROM BRITISH COLUMBIA.
Thank you very much. B.C. is a beautiful province; you must be getting some great wall-hangers!
I can’t believe I am already a better photographer after half an hour of your tutorial. Thank you so much.
You're very welcome, Duong. That comment made me smile :-)
Has to be the best active lesson with fantastic examples in Photography ive ever watched. Thank you so much
Wow, thanks! You're welcome. I hope it helps you create a higher percentage of wall-hangers! 👍😉
@@peterevans6086 I have tried for years Peter. Think I've managed just 2 or 3 wall-hangers (one of them being my profile image of my old policedog). In 20 years as as hard as I try, I struggle at being average. I would enrol in your workshop in a heartbeat if you were near. Just sub'd to you channel
Amazingly wonderful video! Even a well-seasoned photographer such as I was able to learn a ton of vital information.
Thank you, John!
I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
The best composition tutorial I ever met anywhere!!! Clearly explained and brilliantly illustrated. Thank you so much!
You're very welcome, Vadim. And a big thank you for your kind comment.
Please make more videos - I love your approach, presentation and ideas.
Thank you, Duane. I do have some new videos in the pipeline, so watch this space ;-)
You are so very clear and focused in this lesson. UA-cam success deserved.
OK I'm leaving now.
Thank you; much appreciated.
Wow. This is by far the best photography tutorial I have seen on you tube.
Wow, back at you Stephen! What a very kind thing to say. Much appreciated; thank you!
I can't formulate it any better than all previous comments, but this is the best , clearest, most pedagogical tutorial on composition I have seen. Looking forward to seeing more from you Peter. Thanks for this brilliant video.
You're welcome, and thank you very much for the very kind comment. I'm really pleased that you enjoyed it. I have something a little different in preparation at the moment, so watch this space ;-)
It is one of the most organized and concise forms of presenting the rules of composition that I have seen. Given that I know all these rules of composition, but the way of presentation is perfect, fluid and coherent. With examples, with everything you need. Congratulations and I'm waiting for other videos.
Thank you very much. You won't have to wait long; another video is in production at this very moment ;-)
What a great intro into photography. As a 68 yo engineer, who has had to take photos for work, the ONLY element I figured out on my own was: control the background. Now, that I see these 15 elements, they all make SO much sense. Great description and great examples. Thanks so much.
You're welcome. I hope you can now go out and create some great wall-hangers ! ;-)
This is by far the best video on composition I have ever seen. Many thanks Peter
Thank you. You're very welcome
Peter, your photos are superb and it is truly a pleasure just looking at them. However, you take this to a new level with your superb analysis of what makes a great composition. I will watch this video more than once because it inspires me so much and there is so much to learn.
Thank you, Christopher, I really appreciate that. I'm so pleased that you're finding the video useful.
Your point about picture ratios was my hook. I've been trying to convince members of my club of this for years. I literally shouted YES when you said to not worry about the ratio as long as the image looks good. I immediately subscribed.
Thanks, Kurtis. So, are you going to tell the club members? If so, let me know what their reaction was ;-)
Outstanding tutorial on composition, thank you.
Some things I knew, and try to apply, others often forget to look for and then see my error in post, other I was completely oblivious to but were ah-ha moments during your presentation.
I have to say the image of the model in the red dress is just perfect. I immediately was drawn to her expression and said to myself "well she looks like she's just had enough of whatever is going on" and then to hear your instruction for her to set the emotion of the scene.... Fantastic.
Best composition tutorial by streets. Bravo.
Hi Hank (if I may call you that ?) ;-)
Thank you very much indeed for your kind comment. It literally made my day because it came in last night around 23h CET, just 2 hours after a comment from @MHolt9999 that talked about my lack of empathy for the model (if in fact he did realise she was a model; perhaps he thought it was some random girl I stumbled across). Anyway, I'm absolutely delighted that you 'got it' in one. That means an awful lot to me. Thank you again.
A very good tutorial, just like what many have said - clear, succinct, and easy to understand. I hope you can produce more tutorials like this about photography! I would love to learn about the technical aspects of photography too. Thanks!
Thanks, David. I do have a number of ideas which will cover technical aspects, and one is in production as we speak. So, watch this space! ;-)
@@peterevans6086 Looking forward to it! Subscribed!
Your video has popped up in my "suggested" feeds for about a week now, and I finally viewed it. Wow, just wow. I was aware of some dynamics you pointed out; some I intrinsically knew from experience, and others were beyond obvious (once you pointed them out). As someone who's been taking photos for over 50 years (I'm 74), thanks for making me eager to run outside and take more photos to see how well I absorbed your knowledge. Thank you!
Thank you very much, Gary. A comment like that means a lot to me. Good luck with your next photographic outing !
This is the best summary of composing for impactful photos I've seen so far. Class!
That's very kind of you to say so, Norbert, thank you. I'm pleased you found it useful.
Excellent tutorial for all types of composition, from architecture to arranging some flowers in a simple vase.
Thank you, much appreciated!
I learned so much from this. Thanks...What I loved was how you perfectly(=clearly and concisely) explained and illustrated all the elements of composition. Again a BIG Thanks and a Huge "Thumbs Up".
You're very welcome. Thank you. I hope you'll find the advice beneficial next time you're out with your camera.
This is a masterclass with clear, concise and useful information. The presentation and execution were excellent. I am sure this is a lot of work but would love to see more.
Thank you for that, Robert. Much appreciated. I'm working on a new video as we speak, so watch this space ;-)
What an excellent video!! It’s been so long since I’ve been reminded of these simple things. These definitely make your images super impactful. 🙏🏽
Thank you, Marco. Much appreciated.
WOW - insightful, impactful and instructive.
Thank you! Glad you found it useful
What a fantastic review of concepts when taking a picture,plus, you included more than ten aspects that I had learn while taking pictures.
Thank you for such incredible session of photography and how to make your own pictures more atractive.
Magnifico...
Thank you, Robert; I'm glad you found it useful
Wow! Just wow! Probably the best and most comprehensive tutorial on compositional building blocks I have ever seen. Bravo!
Blimey! Thank you for that, Gordon. Much appreciated :-)
thank you for responding to my admiration of your photo. This is really genius.
No problem. If you'd like to purchase a hires version so that you can make a high quality print that you can frame, just let me know :-)
Hi Peter, I just want to tell you that this is a brilliant master class of composition. I had seen a lot of videos and this is far away the most comprehensive a clear to have a clear image what does mean the composition. Congrat for your excellent class.
Thank you very much, Francisco. I really appreciate that.
Peter thank you for that real lesson in composition! This is an extremely high value video and I thank you for sharing your great depth of knowledge with all of us.
Thank you for your kind comment, Matt, that's much appreciated.
A very useful and instructive video on composition! So much better than only talking about grids, golden ratios and rule of thirds.
Thank you; I'm pleased that you found it useful.
The most concise, informative video on composition. Really hit home with me, now I'm off to photograph and start putting these elements into practice. Definitely made me click the "subscribe" button. Thanks, looking forward to more videos.
You're welcome, Thomas. And thank you for your kind comment; I'm glad the video was both helpful and motivating! As to more videos, I'm working on one as we speak, so watch this space ;-)
I always return to this magnificent image.
Thank you; it's one of my favourites too
One of the best videos relating to composition, I have seen. Thanks for posting.
Wow, thank you, Michael! I hope you find it useful next time you're out with your camera.
Pearls of wisdom, Peter.. Thank you.
My pleasure. Thank you. I'm glad you liked it :-)
A singularly excellent tutorial on composition. I haven’t even touched my camera in the last two weeks but I feel like I’ve just levelled up my photography. Thank you.
Thank you for the compliment. Much appreciated.
This is fantastic. You are a great teacher! I am deeply grateful you posted this. Thank you.
Thank you, I appreciate you taking the time to comment.
This is without any doubt the best video about photography on UA-cam.
Wow, Roland, that's quite a statement! Thank you. Thank you very much.
this material is not only essential, but examples of many real life scenarios and dilemma of photography . excellent material whatever your technical skill or artistic mind
Thank you, Alex.
You are an excellent teacher! I learned a lot and even giggled a few times, thank you!
Thank you Meri Michelle; I'm glad you found it useful and pleased that you caught a bit of British humour ;-)
Thank you for the gift of this video. Excellent photographer and teacher. Thank you!!!
You're welcome, Max. I'm pleased that you liked it. Thank you.
Excellent tutorial! Clear and pedagogical, with very nice examples and counterexamples, covering many concepts in a short time. Bravo!😊
Hope to see more material in the future.
Thank you !
Excellent. Worth watching again and again. THX
You're welcome; and thank you for the kind comment.
Very good Video, thanks for taking the time. I know most all of those but it's like a prayer that can be recited often.
Thank you. I hope it was helpful.
Thank you Peter... this guide is well designed and thought through. You've given us a set of briliant examples of what work and what does not work.and what has the potential to work as a wall-hanger... thanks.
I really appreciate that comment, Johan; it makes the time spent making the video worthwhile.
I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
Such a great video! One of the best videos I've seen on photography I've seen. Wish I had this when I was first starting. I'm learning a lot from you! Thank you.
I could listen and learn about composition for hours day and years, and still not be able to master it hah
Thank you very much for your kind comment. I'll be uploading more videos in the not too distant future.
I've just added a link to a PDF in the details above which you can use as an Aide Memoire if you wish ;-)
Amazing thank you @@peterevans6086
One of the best video's about composition.
Thank you. Much appreciated.
I especially appreciate your use of negative examples: things NOT to do. So many tutorials omit this, but it's essential to learning. Thank you.
You're welcome; and thank you for taking the time to comment
Wonderful instruction. I teach kids photography and will be basing some lessons on this.
Thank you. Helping other people improve their photography is my passion and to see that some children are going to gain something from this video means the work making it has been truly worthwhile.
Now this is quality content. Thank you sir for sharing
You're welcome. Thank you for your kind comment.
This video is simply brilliant. I have rarely learnt so much. Thank you
Wow, thank you, that's great to hear! I hope you get a chance to put it into practice very soon.
What a brilliant master class!!!
Thank you, Moshe. I really appreciate that.
I think this is a wonderful video that so many should watch, even those who feel they are beyond beginner. Thank you. One point I’d make on motion space is intention.
It may be that your target audience would find it over complicated but rather than leaving room to move my first question is whether I want to show them leaving or going. It may be helpful for others to consider this along with the safe advice of leaving space to move into, to consider if there is greater impact showing departure, necessitating space behind.
Thanks for putting this together. It’s something I’ll bookmark and send people to view!
You're very welcome and thank you for your kind comment. Your suggestion re leaving space is something I hadn't considered before; I'll have to give it some thought
Wow wow wow, watching from Trinidad, thanks for sharing,
Thank you, Edward, and you're welcome. I hope you find it useful.
Great guide to composition!! Thanks for the great work!
You're very welcome. I hope it proves useful to you.
Excellent. Very useful info. Very well presented. Interested to see more videos. Thank you!!!
You're welcome, Sidney, and thank you very much for your comment; I'm glad you found the tutorial useful. I'm actually working on a new video as we speak, so watch this space ;-}
Terrific.
I've watched and read many videos and books on this subject.
Still learned a lot from this.
Thank you. I'm glad it was of help to you.
Most succinct discussion on photographic composition I have witnessed. Including when I taught it. 😊
Wow, thank you, Gary! I'm blown away by that.
Thanks, I have seen hundreds of UA-cam sessions and read many articles as well as participated in numerous workshops just to comprehend composition logic. Some 2 years ago I came across your UA-cam channel and enjoyed your excellent deliberation. I wish you bring some more of the same!
Thank you. I will try!
I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
After watching this excellent video, I was disappointed to see that you only had one more video published. We definitely need more!
Thank you for the compliment, Ulrich. I made and uploaded this video purely so that I could give the link to my photography guests and have them use it as an Aide Memoire after their photography workshop here. So, frankly, I've been absolutely astonished to see how widely it's been accepted and appreciated. I now feel a responsibility to make more, so watch this space! ;-)
BTW, it seems we share a love of the Blues :-)
@@peterevans6086 Very much so! Keep it coming, cheers
I learned so much and everything you taught makes the photos really interesting. At the end of the video you summarized elements of composition for the photo of your lovely model but you stated you did not include the rules of 3. However you actually did! You have 3 poles to the right of the model! Nice job!
Thanks Leo; I'm glad you found the video useful. As to the posts behind Lise-Marie, when I processed the image, I did see that there were three of those visible (just about) but they don't really contribute anything to the composition (in the same way as, for example, the images shown at 24:33, 24:37, and 24:48). However, I did debate with myself as to whether or not I should claim the full 15, but decided it was a bit of a stretch to do so! ;-)
Brilliant guide, learned quite a bit. Thanks so much for effort and sharing. Take care.
Thank you. I'm glad it was helpful to you
Hello Peter. Wow...This is a super useful instructions which I am looking for my next trip. There are a lot of tutorials out there but your explanation is very easy to understand for a newbie like me. The Hook keyword is great! Thank you for sharing :)
No problem, Duy, you're very welcome. Good luck with your next trip; I hope you get some great wall-hangers!
Wow, what a well thought out presentation! Thank you, this gives me an excellent guide to improving my photography.
That's kind of you to say so, Thomas; I'm glad you found it useful. Here's to your next wall-hanger!
It looks like you're a fellow musician too ?
@@peterevans6086 Music is a big part of my life… choral singing, an a cappella quartet, our band “the seldom heard”, daily guitar, a guitar quartet.. What about you?
Sorry Thomas, I've only just seen this. I play in a Blues and classic rock band here in France and sometimes join in with another similar band when invited. We are two Brits, one Irish, one American, and one French. I'm known for my 5 string Open G stuff 😜
@@peterevans6086 What an international group! I sometimes play a 5 string open G banjo but I don't think that's the instrument you have in mind! I'm still appreciating your inspiring photo lecture, I'm going through 20 years accumulated digital photos, editing the ones I like and gathering them to see if I have a collection worth culling together for my friends and family. Cheers! Tom
You are a great teacher! Thank you for sharing your insights!
Goodness me! Thank you Helmut.
I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
Thank you for this information, you have given me a lot to think about.
You're very welcome. I'm glad it was helpful.
Tres bien. Thanks Peter, an excellent thesis on composition that IMO 95% of photographers (100% of newbies) would do well to watch, learn and practice - if they wish to improve. I have been shooting as a serious and successful amateur for 40+ years (enjoying international awards, had the occasional image published, done a few paid assignments etc), but mostly shoot for fun). I can relate positively to almost everything you say, so I liked and subscribed.
It was an excellent recap for me, well illustrated by many attractive images (perhaps no 'wall hangers' but that's subjective). Totally agree it's best not to obsess. I personally like to break the 'rules' aka guidelines, on occasion (good I think) which if nothing else can be amusing 'judge bait'. I, like you, started with slide film so quickly learnt that getting the framing/composition, right in camera, was vital rather than a post shoot option.
A few minor points or quibbles from me - rule of odds!? One of my 'pet hates' is judges why occasionally, dogmatically, criticise an image because it contains an even number of whatever, rather than 1, 3, 5, 7 etc. It's not a prime number competition. I'd sooner reflect on that as the absolute last detail that might somehow be important, but consider all other point more worthy of consideration. It's up there with judges (in landscape work) stating that a closed field gate somehow blocks their eye from progressing into an image.
Perhaps the easiest way to have your image(s) really stand out and command attention is to show something that is new, different, seldom seen or, ideally, new, innovative, radical etc and perhaps tells an empathetic story too. But with so many pics around it gets ever harder to see from a new creative perspective. But I try to make it one of my goals. Looking ultra low/high etc, perhaps with an ultra wide (complete with distortion of near/edge subjects) or macro, shift or tele lens can help. I just bought a Sony a9iii in quest of ultra dramatic sports shots and to experiment with flash and a global shutter to help subjuects 'pop' in daylight.
Possibly one area you didn't cover (albeit I'm certain you understand) is the impotance of tonality. Our eyes are drawn to brighter subjects and tend to neglect the shadows. So, background highlights and bright objects near edge of frame or corners can easily distract. Withouyt looking too unnatural I try to ensure that important faces are brighter and models don't typically wear white. \post adjustments for tonality can help make composition better too. On your image of model and tram, for instance, I felt the traffic light at exteme LHS in green was a tad distracting. This may have benefitted from a little post editing - cloning, cropping (but maybe then too tight) or tonal darkening. It's me being ultra 'nit picky' as I like the image. But what do you think?
But overall, one of the very best guides to composition that I have seen.
Thanks for the like and the subscription, Ricky, and also your input.
I've made a living from photography (just about!) for very many years and never once entered a competition so I can't comment on the mindset of photo competition judges. I'm also a bit anti the idea of one image being 'better' than another.
The 'Rule of odds' is step too far for me; IMHO once you get beyond three, the concept becomes over-complicated and pretentious. The concept of Threes is different however because it exists all around us in visual, written, and musical content creation. For some reason, we humans seem to have a liking for the concept of 'Three'. A few examples are the pawnbroker's sign, nursery rhymes like 'Three Blind Mice' and 'Three Little Pigs', the Holy Trinity, Triptychs, three act plays, three movements in concertos, and so on. In art and design, three objects are the first number to form a pattern, and the human brain likes patterns. Hence its inclusion in my 15 elements.
Tone is something I don't see as a compositional element; I agree that it's important but, for me, it's more to do with mood, or punch.
As to the tram shot, I left the traffic light there deliberately as it's part of the setting and it balances and harmonises with the two other greens in the image (the model's dress and the grass). But. as you say, everything is subjective.
Your desire to "experiment with flash to help subjects 'pop' in daylight" was of particular interest as I'm currently working on a new video that discusses that very thing (amongst others)
Anyway, thank you again for your input and I wish you well with your new camera.
Thank you so much for video tutorial on composition.
Thank you again.
My pleasure! I'm glad you found it useful.
This is a great video, I wanted to explain how I photograph to my daughter. This video explains it well and concisely, wish the UA-cam algorithm is smart enough to get this recommended to others.
Thank you very much for your kind comment. I hope your daughter will become an avid photographer too :-)
Superb video. One of the best tutorials on composition. Thank you!
Thank you very much, Cliff; I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Informative, enlightening & artistic content. Well done. Looking forward to future videos.
Thank you very much, Nicholas. There will definitely be more to come.
I used to be a member of the RPS after getting two distinctions in Black and White photography in the `film only` days before digital even came out. Every shot had to be deliberate and thought out to get the composition and all other aspects spot on. I have just realised that I lost sight along the way after going digital. The part that especially got me was the looking space and moving space. Thanks for your video. It has got me back along the right tracks again. By the way, I`m getting back into film again with an Olympus OM10 and just the standard 50mm lens. I just love going out and only having 24 frames for a whole day of shooting. From a fellow Blues guitaist -Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.
You're more than welcome, Steve. I'm pleased I've been able to help you get you back on track! I think you're very brave to be going back to film; I was glad to see the back of it (too many hours of my life spent in a darkroom - years, in fact, if I were to add them all up). But whilst the processing side has been a massive boon for me, I feel that the equipment issue is getting out of hand, becoming so unnecessarily complicated over the last ten years as to become a real hindrance to the many people attending my workshops.
@@peterevans6086 Thanks and I agree. It`s all about megapixels and fast lenses these days. The race is on to find the best camera but that isn`t the point. There`s too many videos on youtube that fixate on pixel peeping and lens abberation etc. What they don`t do is tell you how to take a good photo. A good photographer can take a fantastic picture with a basic point and shoot camera. I still have an old EOS350D which is 8.1megapixels and it produces amazing results. Ansell Adams said “There is nothing worse than a sharp image of a fuzzy concept.”
Excellent video hope to see more
Thank you for the kind comment, Brian. And, yes, you will see more; a new video is underway as we speak, so watch this space ;-)
Thank you very much, The video is very helpful and comprehensive.
You're welcome, Danilo. I'm pleased that you found it helpful.
I must point out that there ARE 3 elements in this picture: the model obviously, her shoe and the posts behind her. They are sharp and add to the image. If you remove the posts, or the shoe, it would be less strong, with something missing. While I knew all of these rules, and use them, it never occurred to me to put so many of them in one picture.
I will also say I think that was one of the best photography tutorias I have ever seen: clear, concise and informative (and all without shouting and loud music). I see you have been in Antwerp, the city where I live. Nice pictures overall!
Thank you for your kind comment, Thierry. You know, you're one of several people who have made a similar comment regarding the 'Rule of Threes', but I have to confess that yours is the most compelling yet. I'm almost persuaded ;-)
Jill and I have a good friend who lives in Antwerp; it's a truly beautiful city.
Just a superb video, a lot of good tips.
Thank you. I'm glad you found it worthwhile.
Well... Only bloody brilliant. Thank you very much for a photographic tutorial - plus a video turorial. That's the way to do it. Another thank you.
Your kind comment is much appreciated.
I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.
Thank you an excellent way of showing and explaining these important aspects of photography..
Thank you, Richard, I appreciate your comment and I'm glad you liked it
Peter, I love your style! Outstanding!
Thank you for your kind comment, Jack.
Very well composed so it was made easy to understand.
Thank you, Jonny
Great Tutorial, till now I haven't ever watched such kind of information, thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge Mr Peter, make more videos on photography and if possible on cinematography too and help people who cant afford film school . Love from my side.❤
Thanks. Much appreciated. I'm working on a new video at this very moment, so watch this space!