This week we chose leading lines as our theme. Not because we didn’t know what they are but more as a way to look critically at a composition while making the image. I think I sometimes work on an intuitive level because when I set out to purposefully create images with strong leading lines I found myself having difficulty. It wasn’t until I put that requirement into the back of my mind did the process return to normal for me. I didn’t forget about the assignment, it just wasn’t the only consideration.

I tried to capture some non-normal leading line images, at least for me. I know what I usually fall back on and was trying to break out of that mode. I also posted a pic a few days ago of the interior of the Boehlert Transportation Station in Utica, NY which would also work for this theme. I’m not sure I succeeded completely but I do like what I found…

This first image is from my exploring around the transportation station. This is the side of an old passenger car on display at the Children’s Museum next door to the station. I really liked the polish metal exterior with it strong lines and reflections. In this image the lines bring the eye completely through the view ending on the standout green lamp posts.

1479
Nikon D5100, Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4, 1/800s, 70mm, f/5.6, ISO 200

My second image is also from outside the transportation station. I was going for the row of bike racks and sidewalk lines pointing off into the distance. I got lucky with the people coming into the frame just outside the entrance door. Having the people in the frame provides two improvements to the image. They add a sense of scale as well as become the objects the lines are leading the eye to.

Coming or Going?
Nikon D5100, Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4, 1/400s, 35mm, f/5.6, ISO 200

My last image is a little weaker or maybe less obvious as to the use of leading lines. I wanted to have the ‘shoreline’ lead the eye toward the rocks but I also have the out of frame bridge’s reflection pointing toward the small waterfall in the background.  I was able to position the camera so the power line reflection connects with the shoreline and the bridge reflection.  This one might be a stretch but I’ll wait for the official ruling… 😉

Rocks
Nikon D5100, Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6, 1/10s, 66mm, f/16, ISO 100