Conceptual Frames
Janice Storch

Conceptual Frames

November 2024

Expert
winner

This is a classic documentary-style shot that is both a literal and metaphorical interpretation of the brief. The composition makes great use of the frame-within-a-frame technique, isolating the girl while making good use of the rule of thirds. The colours are natural too, which allows us to focus on the textures in the scene—nicely done.

3,004 Images entered

1,190 Photographers

The direction of this composition is very well structured, leading the eye through the scene to the subject. Featuring multiple, 'frames;' it is multi-layered and conveys a sense of enlightenment, satisfying the conceptual directive of the brief. The choice to use black and white pays off, preventing colour from becoming a distraction.

This is a simple idea and a streamlined composition but it appeals to both elements of the brief perfectly. The use of silhouettes adds a lovely contrast while the timing of the exposure is well done. It's a nice concept and a great use of framing for dramatic effect.

This scene demonstrates excellent use of compositing. The photographer has perfectly matched the colour and lighting across all elements of the picture and you'd have to look closely to spot the editing work. The framing is slightly oppressive, pushing a vague but recognisable theme of feeling caged. It has an excellent Hopper-esque tone that is well- crafted.

Creating frames out for other objects is a tried and tested technique that has been put to good use in this shot. The framing is simple but the use of a relevant object –a book – to produce the frame in a frame, pushes a continuous theme. The exposure and depth of field are also well-controlled.

We really like the literal and metaphorical messages in this scene. The exposure and software work is excellent, effectively combining an environment which frames the Chapel, while the concept of scale and spirituality shine through. It was a unique interpretation this round and deserves multiple views. Well done.

The lighting and concept in this shot are superb. We really like the creative direction of the frame, both compositionally and regarding the conceptual element. It's a well thought out image with lots of interesting details that force us to interpret the scene, which is ultimately the purpose of this brief.

The lighting in this scene is superb and demonstrates a detailed knowledge of light ratios and location setups. We love the balance of lighting on the subject and background elements, to frame the key areas in a different way, while the theatrical concept is well executed. An interesting take on the brief for this round.

A very literal frame within a frame, the arrangement of the subjects forms a very clean composition, while the bright red colour is highly striking. We love the expression of intrigue on the child's face and the placement of his eyes is photographically optimal. A great use of classic framing devices.

Layers and reflections feature notably in this round and this image makes good use of both. It's a slightly mind-bending arrangement which uses a broad tonal range to its advantage. The eye is drawn directly to the subjects but the surrounding elements tell a wider story of the surroundings.

Brief

See more contest details

Deliver not just a visual image but a powerful message. Conceptual photography is diverse, from capturing demonstrations with a documentary approach to creating conceptual still lifes and more. Show us what you stand for!

A great way to create frames is to use the environment around you, which is what the photographer has done here. The placement of the man adds intrigue, using the walls as a literal frame, while the birds add a vertical element which adds to the theme of confinement. Nicely spotted.

Meet the expert judge

The lighting and concept in this shot are superb. We really like the creative direction of the frame, both compositionally and regarding the conceptual element. It's a well thought out image with lots of interesting details that force us to interpret the scene, which is ultimately the purpose of this brief.

The lighting and concept in this shot are superb. We really like the creative direction of the frame, both compositionally and regarding the conceptual element. It's a well thought out image with lots of interesting details that force us to interpret the scene, which is ultimately the purpose of this brief.

Entry 21893773
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The lighting and concept in this shot are superb. We really like the creative direction of the frame, both compositionally and regarding the conceptual element. It's a well thought out image with lots of interesting details that force us to interpret the scene, which is ultimately the purpose of this brief.

The lighting and concept in this shot are superb. We really like the creative direction of the frame, both compositionally and regarding the conceptual element. It's a well thought out image with lots of interesting details that force us to interpret the scene, which is ultimately the purpose of this brief.