Itty bitty screens and photo composition

 

Is mobile photography really photojournalism? Yes. And here’s why.

Small screens have really impacted photojournalism and photographers need to adapt – measures such as composition become important ways to emphasise significant parts of the image.

This is especially important where it’s not possible to zoom into an image (e.g. on Instagram).

In 2016 we also also need to consider 3D photojournalism and the ways images will change when viewers can immerse themselves in a scene.

Some photojournalists suggest phones are less intimidating than DSLR cameras, and that subjects react differently when photographed with a phone.

Other advantages:

Inconspicuous
Portable
All editing can be done on the device
Photos can be filed from the phone instantly (unlike on a DSLR, where images need to be downloaded before being edited and published)
Makes photography (and journalism) more accessible

Composing a photograph

The Rule of Thirds (less a rule than just a thing).

Portrait vs landscape – considering subject matter and newspaper and magazine layout

Seeing in a new way: altering your perspective and point of view

Effective use of colour

When to choose black and white

EXERCISE

Go out and take five photographs composed according to the rule of thirds, which also present a new or unusual perspective, and employ effective use of colour or black and white. Post them on Instagram tagged #sydneyTAFEmopho