The Motion of Light in Water – Erica F

This perspective of this shot is from underneath water in a swimming pool looking up at the surface. Motion is captured by the ripples in the surface of the water. We see the motion clearly because of the emphasis on the reflection that the ladder has on the surface, and since the water surface is fluid, or continuously moving, the reflection is distorted. The light that shines into the pool from the left of the composition and contrasts with a clear line of shadow on the side of the pool that is fully submerged. However, once that distinction meets the surface, it is no longer a straight line between light and shadow. It also becomes distorted, similar to the ladder. The motion of the water on the surface also creates shadows on the side of the pool underwater. This composition is pretty well balanced, but it has more shadow than direct light. Even though there is direct light shining into the pool, it does not have a warm tone to contrast the cool tone of the water, so ever all the composition is cool.