Composition and Lighting

In this shot by Harry Callahan, a woman’s silhouette with arms outstretched can be seen at the center of the photo in a small vertical rectangle, what looks to be a small photograph or possibly a mirror. The background of the small rectangle is bright gray and white, letting her figure stand out and pop. Surrounding the rectangle in all directions is a large spread of dark branches, reaching to the edges of the shot. The contrast between the dark branches and the very light background of the photo allows for the woman in the center to pop out, an excellent use of lighting that draws the viewer’s eye to her immediately. The photo is in black and white, which makes the image more timeless and allows the viewer to fully take note of the nuances in the lighting rather than any bright and distracting colors. The composition of the shot makes it seem almost otherworldly- the tiny rectangle of a woman with outstretched arms a portal into an area that is welcoming and seductive, while the rest of the surrounding area is harsh and unwelcoming.