PhotoPlay: Frame It

While studying, a lecturer presented a class on creativity. He set a very large wooden frame before us and asked us to make our way to the other side of the frame one by one. I thought to myself that most students would simply climb through. You put things in frames, right?

I was in for a surprise: some walked around, some went under, some climbed through, and others moved the frame out of the way and then walked across the space. It was an interesting observation of human behavior, and a reminder to me that frames are more than simply boxes with holes.

Frames fascinate me. They are versatile, flexible items that serve many uses. And unlike the traditional wooden, plastic or steel frames used in homes and offices, all created matter can be used as a potential frame. Plant life, humans, man-made structures and even the elements can serve as a photographer’s frame.

Frames achieve four goals in a subtle but non-intrusive manner:

1. They draw the eye toward a particular element of the subject.
2. They highlight a feature within the frame.
3. They create a barrier between unwanted subject matter and the important focal point.
4. They create depth.

The photographers below have used frames to achieve these four goals:

For next week’s PhotoPlay post, get your camera, head out and find a subject to frame. While out and about consider the following:

• What frames appeal to you most?
• Does this preference reveal anything to you about the way in which you frame people, God, or elements of your life?

Drop your link into my comment box by Wednesday the 23rd. I look forward to seeing your creativity displayed in the gallery!

"Empty Frame" photo by Andross. Used with permission. Post written by Claire Burge.

• Tags:  
• creativity
• culture
• frames
• photography
• photoplay

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