Contrast, Harmony and Balance

Here we have a black and white image of an individual standing on a railroad river crossing. It’s fair to assume most would consider this a photograph of value because it’s cool or “real neat”, but there are distinct qualities captured here that make it an objectively effective image.

First, a lack of color provides obvious contrast. The literal shadows are defined against a highlighted floor, and the dark beams that make up the bridge’s structure (figures) pop against an illuminated body of water (ground). The contrast in size between the miniscule figure and the colossal bridge structure gives the image weight in that the size of a person is fairly consistent, so we can use it as a gage for the scope of the photo. In this case the person is also a figure to the ground of the bridge and begs our focus.

Second, the image is balanced through symmetry. The photographer took advantage of the bridge’s symmetrical design with an image straight down the middle. In this way neither side is off balanced by the other, and the picture has an organized, structured look to it.

This symmetry contributes to the image’s final quality to be discussed: harmony. Symmetrical balance creates a sense of tranquility and elegance that contributes to an overall feeling of harmony. However, the photo isn’t acutely mirrored down the center. It has a sense of natural symmetry to it instead of an artificial pattern, and this is easier on the eyes. The image feels at peace, like sitting on a back porch and watching the sun set after a long day’s work. There’s no active motion to be found. The water is still and everything seems to fit in its rightful place. Although a railroad crossing is probably not the safest place to stand around, the individual appears to be in no hurry. Their peace is contagious. Cross patterns are repeated throughout and give the image a consistent feel. Although it’s borderline too dark to make out the bridge’s upper portion, the Gestalt law of similarity connects the cross at the top with those lower down in the bridge structure. Repeated elements of the bridge make it feel like a single object even though much of it is out of frame. Furthermore, the law of continuity lets the railroad tracks lead our eyes into the image despite other lines intersecting.

Altogether, these factors contribute to a brilliant image.