Achromatic Art
Achromatic Art
I have always been deeply fascinated by black and white photography—the way opposites come together to create something whole through a single capture.
Color is everywhere, all the time. We are surrounded by it. And because of this, I believe that its absence in a photograph forces our eyes to focus even more.
Black and white imagery is somewhat foreign to the human eye. So when we encounter a black and white photograph, curiosity takes hold. Our eyes are drawn to the contrast, the interplay of light and shadow. We notice the absence of color where it should be, and for a moment, our minds fill in the possibilities. Then, we see the image as a whole—an immortalized moment, even more captivating because of its simplicity.
There is something deeply rooted in the purity of black and white photography that we are drawn to, perhaps even subconsciously. A calmness within the chaos. A reminder of a simpler time. It sparks nostalgia, evoking that "good old days" feeling, grounding us in a way that color sometimes cannot.
As a photographer, I don’t believe every image needs to make a bold statement or be a thought-provoking piece of art. What matters most is that an image is easy to digest while still allowing the viewer a sense of freedom—the space to wander, to explore, to interpret.
In a world full of noise and overexposure, simplicity is important. Sometimes, less is more. And that is the beauty of black and white photography.
Long live the art of Achromatic.
-Dolo Finao 02/17/25
Through the Lens of Dolo Finao
Photography Tips
Basic Composition - The Simple Rules That Make a Good Picture Great
Mastering the Rule of Thirds in Photography
Photography is an art form that blends creativity with composition. One of the fundamental principles that can dramatically enhance the visual appeal of an image is the Rule of Thirds. This simple yet powerful technique helps photographers create balanced and engaging compositions.
What is the Rule of Thirds?
The Rule of Thirds is a compositional guideline that divides an image into nine equal parts using two equally spaced horizontal lines and two equally spaced vertical lines. The key elements of the photo should be placed along these lines or at their intersections, creating a natural focal point and visual harmony.
Why is the Rule of Thirds Important?
When used effectively, the Rule of Thirds can:
- Create Balance: Placing the subject off-center makes an image feel more dynamic and visually appealing.
- Guide the Viewer’s Eye: The intersecting points naturally draw attention, helping to emphasize the main subject.
- Improve Composition: It prevents the subject from being placed in the dead center, which can sometimes make an image feel static or less engaging.
How to Apply the Rule of Thirds
- Use Gridlines: Many cameras and smartphones offer an option to display a Rule of Thirds grid, making it easier to compose your shot.
- Position Key Elements: Place important parts of your composition—such as a subject’s eyes in a portrait or the horizon in a landscape—along the grid lines or at their intersections.
- Balance the Frame: If the subject is positioned on one side, use negative space or a secondary point of interest to maintain balance.
- Experiment with Variations: While the Rule of Thirds is a great starting point, breaking the rule intentionally can also lead to creative and striking compositions.
When to Break the Rule
Although the Rule of Thirds is a powerful tool, there are times when ignoring it can create an even stronger image. Symmetry, centered compositions, and leading lines can sometimes work better depending on the subject and the story you want to tell.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the Rule of Thirds can transform your photography by making your images more engaging and visually appealing. Whether you're shooting portraits, landscapes, or street photography, this principle provides a solid foundation to enhance your compositions. Practice using it consistently, and soon it will become second nature in your creative process.
-Élevé Magazine
