Burnham Park, Baguio City (May 2024) By Allan Dale Gaspar

This photograph captures a candid moment of three women enjoying a ride on a trike while taking a selfie. The image effectively applies several principles of photography, such as balance, emphasis, and movement. The subjects are positioned slightly off-center, following the rule of thirds, which adds energy to the composition. The background, filled with other trikes and people, creates depth and a sense of environment. The use of leading lines, particularly the yellow road marking, guides the viewer's eye toward the subjects. In terms of the elements of photography, color and contrast play a key role. The warm tones of the trike's roofs and the subjects' clothing contrast against the cooler hues of the pavement. The depth of field is also well-executed, with a shallow focus on the main subjects, making them stand out while maintaining enough background detail to convey context. The image successfully conveys joy and movement, making it an engaging and well-composed street photograph.

Untitled by Rhea Yvonne Ocubillo

Analyzing this seascape photograph, I observe a dominant horizontal composition, emphasizing the vastness of the sea. The elements of water and sky are clearly defined, with the textured waves in the foreground providing a sense of depth and movement. The diffused and soft light suggests either dawn or dusk, contributing to a calming, almost somber mood. The distant ships also act as focal points, drawing my eye across the expanse of the water. In terms of composition, the rule of thirds is loosely applied, with the horizon line positioned near the upper third, giving prominence to the sea. The dynamic waves in the foreground offer a contrasting texture to the smooth sky, creating visual interest. The vibe range is limited, yet the subtle variations in the sky's light add a layer of complexity. Overall, I feel the image effectively captures a sense of solitude and the largeness of the sea despite lacking a strong central subject.

Untitled By Merv D'Melo

In this nature photograph, I'm drawn to the vibrant colors of the bird and the sense of depth created by the framing. The elements of color, texture, and form are key, with the bright blue of the bird contrasting sharply against the greenery. The texture of the banana leaf, where the bird is perched, adds a tactile quality to the image. In terms of composition, the bird is positioned centrally, yet the surrounding leaves create a natural frame, drawing the eye to the subject while also providing a sense of depth and context. The light is natural and diffused, highlighting the colors and textures without creating harsh shadows. The photograph captures a moment of quiet observation, with the bird's posture suggesting a sense of tranquility. I appreciate the use of natural framing to create a sense of intimacy and to emphasize the beauty of the natural world.

Skyline Sparks By Luz Capangpangan

In this photograph, I see a vibrant display of fireworks against a cityscape backdrop. The elements of light, color, and form are prominent, with the bursts of fireworks creating vibrant shapes and a striking contrast against the dark sky. The city lights below provide a warm, ambient glow, adding depth and context to the scene. In terms of composition, the fireworks are positioned in the center of the image, drawing the viewer's eye, while the surrounding buildings frame the spectacle. The use of perspective, looking down on the city, adds a sense of scale and grandness. The light from the fireworks illuminates the smoke and surrounding haze, creating a misty effect. The photograph captures a moment of celebration and excitement, with the vibrant colors and dynamic forms evoking a sense of energy. I find the balance between the natural light of the fireworks and the artificial light of the city to be particularly effective, creating a visually compelling image.

Apartment Leaving Despair, Despair, Despair By Thursday Reyes

In this architectural photograph, I'm struck by the strong sense of vertical lines and repetition. The elements of line, shape, and pattern are very dominant, with the parallel lines of the buildings leading the eye upward toward the sliver of blue sky. The repeated patterns of the windows and air conditioning units create a sense of rhythm and texture. In terms of composition, the image uses a low-angle perspective, emphasizing the height and scale of the buildings, and the framing of the sky between the buildings creates a focal point. The light is natural and even highlights the textures and details of the buildings. The photograph captures a sense of urban life and the geometric beauty of architecture. I find the contrast between the man-made structures and the natural sky to be particularly compelling, creating a sense of both confinement and openness.