Background

Definition

In photography, background refers to the part of the scene that appears behind the main subject of the image. It plays a crucial role in defining the context and enhancing the overall composition of a photograph. A well-considered background can add depth, tell a story, or create contrast, influencing how the viewer interprets the subject in focus.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A cluttered background can distract from the main subject, while a simple background can help isolate it and draw more attention.
2. Using unconventional camera angles can alter the perception of the background, making it more dynamic and engaging.
3. The choice of background color and texture can evoke different emotions and contribute to the mood of a photograph.
4. Photographers often use depth of field techniques to either blur the background or keep it sharp, depending on the desired effect.
5. In photojournalism, backgrounds can provide essential context about the story being told, enriching the narrative without needing additional text.

Review Questions

• How does the background influence the viewer's perception of the main subject in a photograph?
  • The background can significantly affect how viewers interpret the main subject by either enhancing or detracting from its prominence. A well-chosen background can add context and depth to an image, making it more compelling, while a distracting or irrelevant background can confuse or mislead viewers about what is important. Understanding this relationship is key to effective photojournalism.
• Discuss how unconventional camera angles can change the way backgrounds are perceived in photography.
  • Unconventional camera angles, such as shooting from low or high perspectives, can transform how backgrounds are viewed in relation to subjects. By altering these perspectives, photographers can create new contexts and visual narratives that emphasize certain elements in the background. This technique allows for creative storytelling and can engage viewers by revealing aspects they may not have noticed from traditional angles.
• Evaluate the role of background selection in creating impactful narratives in photojournalism.
  • Background selection is vital in crafting impactful narratives in photojournalism because it provides essential context and emotional weight to images. The right background can enhance storytelling by situating the subject within a broader environment, reflecting cultural or societal themes. By analyzing how backgrounds interact with subjects, photographers can deliver more profound messages and influence public perception, ultimately shaping understanding and empathy regarding complex issues.

Related terms

Depth of Field: The range of distance within a photo that appears acceptably sharp, which is influenced by aperture settings and focal length.

Composition: The arrangement of elements within a photograph, including how the subject and background relate to each other.

Context: The circumstances or setting surrounding a photograph that helps convey meaning or importance, often defined by what is in the background.