Ingledew, Photography: Loading 2005/ Basics Photography: Composition

Critical reading of inspirational image

“To take a photograph is to align the head, the eye and the heart. It's a way of life. ” (Henri Cartier-Bresson, cited in Magnum Photos). These are the words of famous French photographer, who is seen as the father of photojournalism. For him camera was 'a sketch book, an instrument of intuition and spontaneity... It is by economy of means that one arrives at simplicity of expression' (ibid). This image ('Brie', 1968) that was made by Henri Cartier, which i consider inspirational, is suitable example of simplification. In fact, according to Prakel (2006, p. 19), 'simplification is an essential part of composition; getting rid of unwanted visual clutter will leave only the important elements that can be arranged to create a well-composed image'. In order to get such effects, it seems that photographer used the rule of thirds in the 'Brie' (The focus of interest are rows of trees, which have symmetry toward each other and divide image in 3 parts). However, at that period of time these techniques were not really known and explored. Hence, probably, the fact that Bresson was previously a painter played a role in his flair and talent to capture a moment. Such chosen composition gives viewers a feel of freedom and mystery as the road, depicted on the image, continues and seems to lead to magical unreal world where there are no worries and concerns. It should be mentioned that given photograph was made in 1968 during the turbulent era, happening all over the world, including France (author's home counry). Possibly, Cartier-Bresson intended to underline how important to bring harmony in the world or that even in the time of civic disorders there is a place and time to feel calmness and rest. And this 'place' is nature, which is around us.



'Brie' by Henri Cartier-Bresson, June 1968, Brie, France

Reference:

Ingledew, J. (2006). Fotografía. Barcelona: Blume.

Magnum Photos (2014) Henri Cartier-BressonFrench, b. 1908, d. , Available at http://www.magnumphotos.com/C.aspx?VP3=CMS3&VF=MAGO31_10_VForm&ERID=24KL53ZMYN  (Accessed:25 January 2015)

Prakel, D. (2006). Composition. Lausanne: AVA Academia.