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MMS 173 Assignment 2:
For this FMA, we were tasked with reviewing a classmate's self-introduction and Assignment 1. Given the large number of students in this course, I used the RANDBETWEEN() function in Google Sheets to select random students from the directory. I did this to ensure I wasn't biased towards people I already know.
I've seen their works and noticed that most of the photographers are beginners, while some are starting to get the hang of it. It’s fascinating to observe the wide range of possibilities in each shot. To clarify, some individuals did not include a photo in their self-introduction, so I had to explore their ePortfolios. Most of the images featured either horizons at sunset or street scenes. There were also landscape scenery and portraits. What intrigued me the most were the photographs taken with mobile phones that looked impressive; the quality seemed less important than the composition of the images. Personally, I appreciated observing each student's unique perspective.
As a UPOU student, I recognize that we come from diverse backgrounds, and the moments captured in their images were very evocative. Their ePortfolios showcased a variety of creative approaches, and it was interesting to see how everyone's different experiences influenced their photography. Each picture felt as though it told a story. This assignment demonstrated that while everyone is learning photography, they are also discovering how to convey emotions and narratives through their images. It made me realize how art can unite people, even if we come from different places. I admit that critiquing others' work can sometimes feel a bit uncomfortable, but I noticed several images that could benefit from more effort to meet the course requirements. A little extra work would greatly help them further develop their skills.
The replies to the self-introductions were positive, which I think can encourage people to refine their techniques. I'm eager to see how their skills evolve and how their unique perspectives will shine through their photographs. Each of them has individual strengths, or perhaps I'm just too optimistic? Still, this learning opportunity can help us further shape our personalities and interests into our photographic outputs, whether we're new to photography or not.
Oh, hey! Let me share some photographs that caught my interest.
"Untitled"
"Untitled"
By Jamane Kyla Balolong | Iphone 12 | n.d.
I like the way how the clouds looks, it looks like a painting! I figured that this photograph follow the rule of thirds and leading lines as the electricity wires directs the eyes to the center. The image also seems balanced for me and everything just looks natural which seems like its past noon. Although, I think there's too much positive space at the top of the image.
"Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel"
"Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel"
By Asleya Faye Ruste | 2023
This image drew my attention because I live in the city where this chapel is located, and I have visited it. It possesses remarkable architecture, both in its exterior and interior. In terms of composition, line is the most dominant element, followed by shape, form, and texture. The design principles evident are pattern, emphasis, balance, and unity. The composition is also largely radial, with all lines converging toward the small opening at the top of the chapel. Interestingly, the chapel's form looks like a wizard's hat! If the circle is more centered, this would make a satisfying image.
"Untitled"
"Untitled"
By Mervick D'melo | S24 Ultra | 2024
When looking at this picture, the bird immediately captures attention. The most evident composition I noticed is framing, where the foliage creates borders that direct our eyes to the center, providing depth. The rule of thirds and diagonal composition could also be applied. Emphasis and contrast contribute to visual interest and make the subject stand out. The design elements present include line, shape, texture, and most notably, color. For me, I think it would make a better image if the most background is a bit more blurred so the focus will be solely on the bird only.
"Untitled"
"Untitled"
By Charlize Jullianna E. Briones | n.d.
This image was my immediate choice because sunflowers are my favorite flower. In addition, the image is visually appealing. The rows of flowers create leading lines, and the rule of thirds is also applicable to this image. Color is the most prominent element, followed by line, shape, and texture. The contrast between the blue sky and the yellow sunflowers emphasizes the subject. Pattern and depth are also applicable, in my opinion. The only drawback, in my view, is the trees 'photobombing' the background, or perhaps that's just my perspective.
"Korea Pavilion, Expo City 2020"
"Korea Pavilion, Expo City 2020"
By Mary Daniella Florendo | Iphone 11 | 2021
This is my favorite photograph among those I've seen. As for this photograph's composition, the most prominent element is the repetition of pattern, followed by negative space (the sky) and leading lines. The elements are shape, form, line, color, and texture. Form makes each space pop more. The emphasis and balance of this image make it satisfying to look at. You can also discern the perspective of the angle. I couldn't make any further comments except that it is satisfying.
Upon looking at their outputs, it made me realize something...
I'M TOTALLY AN BEGINNER!
Well yes, I understand that. I'm more inclined to create my own compositions through illustration rather than capturing images of existing ones. This means I belong to the group of people who recreate things from memory rather than document memories themselves. This has been my personality since I was younger; I'm not much of a documenter, though sometimes I wish I were. I never envisioned myself pursuing this profession; I mostly take pictures for fun. To be honest, I'm quite hesitant to take photography seriously. So, I tried to take images applying the lessons I learned from past synchronous classes, and I think I'm improving. Still have a long way to go! This newfound awareness is slowly transforming my hesitance into curiosity. I am learning that, much like illustration, photography requires patience, practice, and a willingness to see the world from different angles.
Clay Works from the National Museum of Anthropology (2025)
Should I attempt to direct photographs in the same way I direct my other creative projects? While this works for staged creative shots, it might sacrifice the naturalness of candid moments. I do think, though, that infusing photography with elements from my imaginative approach could lend a unique perspective to my work. First, however, I must deepen my knowledge of composition and the design elements and principles that underpin effective photography. Ultimately, photography is a means of storytelling. Moving forward, I hope to find a balance between my passion for illustration and my developing interest in photography. Perhaps this will enable me to forge a unique artistic voice that merges these two realms, allowing for previously unimagined forms of self-expression. his exploration is about not only improving my technical skills but also uncovering new facets of my creativity. I'm excited to see where this path leads and how it will shape my artistic expression. This journey is teaching me that it's okay to step outside my comfort zone and embrace new challenges. Who knows? Maybe one day, photography will feel as natural to me as picking up a pencil and sketching a scene from my imagination.
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