Symmetry & Leading Lines
Not only did the frame within a frame add a cool effect, but it drew a lot of emphasis onto my subject. In the picture on the left, especially because the frame was also paired with symmetry and leading lines, the focus went straight to the subject in the center. In the picture on the right, the film added contrast (the frame was dark, the wall around Hanni was bright white), which made the subject pop. Additionally, it was paired with leading lines that led away to the right, which was followed with Hanni's gaze out to the right as well. These different elements complimented each other and strengthened the photograph as a whole. I think that the frame definitely added to the appeal as it was the main technique used for the photograph.
Finding frames and symmetry was more difficult than the other techniques, because it wasn't as easy to find. The one on the left was entirely artificial, because I had to place the subject there to correspond with the vision I had inside my head. As for the second picture, I really had to find the correct position and place Hanni at that specific spot to get the shot. However, the frames were definitely useful to (again) put emphasis onto the subject. It took away distraction and clutter from the image. Also, since my photographs are always squares or rectangles, frames within frames can add different shapes that will make the photograph more interesting.
As for symmetry and asymmetry, I definitely prefer asymmetry because it feels more natural (and is easier to shoot). However, when I do get a symmetrical photograph, it does feel very satisfying. Symmetrical pictures usually feel less natural and unsettling because it doesn't follow the rule of thirds. For my picture on the left, it is symmetrical, but the mood is very negative and gloomy. I do like hints of symmetry though, like walls, windows, etc.
I think symmetry can be cool when we can tell it's supposed to be symmetrical but it's not entirely - like a parallel. For example, having two people side by side, symmetrical, but those two people are complete opposites, or something like that where the symmetry actual emphasizes their differences. Maybe a bride and a groom. Or someone's reflection on the other side but the reflection is doing something different. That could be a cool photo to take.
