There’s a lot going on in this photo. First there are the layers. Let’s take a closer look and see how these layers interact with each other.
The hills form a solid background and the bridge in the mid-ground reinforces that strength. In between them we see the turbulence of the falls. The mist it creates is, for me, the reason for this photo. It’s what attracted me and what I feel gives this photo it’s unique quality. Not only does it tie everything together, it creates the atmosphere for the whole scene.
The Focal Point
The boat in the calmer, simmering waters is the focal point. I watched this boat for a while and noticed how it seemed to hold it’s own against the activity of the falls. The people on the boat looked serene and seemed to be unconcerned that they were so near to so much bluster. They were just out there fishing. Nothing seemed to faze them. Now, imagine the scene without the boat – a pretty picture, but not as interesting, don’t you think?
Monochrome Palette
Another element that makes me like this photo is that it’s pretty much a monochrome. The steel blue of the bridge, and the water below dominate the palette. And then there’s the mist – again the best part of this scene, creating a thin wash of white that emphasizes the layers.
