Photo of the Month
"Small planes are my favorite mode of transportation for viewing the lowcountry from the air. But honestly, there usually is not the budget for a helicopter. From the air, the landscape becomes a palette that we photographers can paint, to some degree, however we want. Using the rules of composition we’ve learned, we attempt to guide the viewers eye, to see what is important in the picture and to stay within it’s frame. In this case, I used the strong green and blue and the graphic qualities of the marsh and oyster bank for a balance of picture elements. A successful composition is one where the viewer does not beg the question - “I wonder what is outside the frame here or there”? To achieve this success we attempt to balance of image elements and create a strong composition that holds the viewers attention."
Eric Horan
Photo tip: Composition becomes very individual the longer you shoot inages. After learning the basic “rules” (the rule of thirds), I am continually trying to break the rules and come up with unusual “one of a kind” keepers. This is as it should be. Getting in the habit of shooting verticals as well as horizontals is a good starting place for beginners but continue to try new arrangements within the frame for unique and unusual compositions.
More on Oyster Banks:
Oyster banks serve as protectors of the salt marsh. They provide buffer from boat wakes and other big surf conditions caused by storms and extreme tides that can threaten the wetland environment. Spartina grasses have a difficult time growing where waves are strong and plentiful. These smooth, chord grasses thrive in calmer conditions like behind the well-developed oyster bank as “String of Pearls” illustrates.
Oyster banks are self-sustaining and have the potential for long-term growth. They also contribute to the stability and overall quality of the ecosystem. Local environmental groups are actively working to restore area oyster banks by placing recycled oyster shells onto banks impacted by natural and man made conditions. To see more of Eric’s work visit www.southernlight.biz.
For more information visit Eric Horan's Website
southernlight.biz or call 843-524-3037