My Right on Target image is one of spontaneous inspiration. It was unexpected. I did not have my go-to-camera with me that day. I was driving home from picking up my grandson from his martial arts class when I decided to tour the countryside.
We often go exploring, discussing what we see, and occasionally stop to enjoy the beauty. On our drive that day, we came upon a Target store. As I drove along the side of the store, the wall colors captured my attention. I hesitated for a moment, then pulled into the parking lot. My creative eye was curious. I thought to myself, I wish I had my camera! I only had my iPhone with me. It was one of those moments when the opportunity presented itself; I needed to photograph it. I have learned over the years not to miss a story-worthy moment.
As I approached the wall, I found the iconic red Target shopping cart casually left near the wall. It needed repositioning. As I framed up the image, my eye saw the graphic image emerge. There were several dynamic compositional elements at play. First, the two white leading vertical lines of the parking space from the bottom left corner are repeated in the double white horizontal lines on the wall. Second, when I repositioned the shopping cart, I placed the white circular Target logo on the cart in line with the white circular object on the wall. Third, the analogous color palette of the scene that initially captured my attention sets the stage for its graphic impact. Nature gave me one additional element: my light source. It was not cloudy that day; it allowed the sun to cast a harsh shadow on the cart, further enhancing the image.
My intent was purely artistic. Many viewers appreciate Right on Target artistry and graphic impact. Others see the influence of Wes Anderson or William Eggleston. Maybe. I can see why. However, it was not the intent. Other viewers see it as an ode to the cultural icon. My goal as an artist is to create unique images that evoke emotion, tell a story, or make a statement that engages the viewer. I am happy. My creative soul is nourished.
What are the TWO most impactful features that make your image a good photograph? Don’t be shy!
The two most impactful features that make Right On Target an artistic, graphic photograph are its color palette and the repetitive composition elements.
If you could make this photo again, what would be the ONE thing you would like to do better or different?
I would get rid of the leaves at the curb.
Davide China shared this photograph in the FRAMES Facebook Group.
Photographer
Davide China, Gilroy, California, USA
Equipment and settings
iPhone XR
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Rick Bannerot
February 23, 2024 at 16:44
Davide,
Respectfully, I disagree with your assertion that you’d do away with the leaves. In my opinion they make the image more realistic and not a pre-staged , overly-manipulated scene. In life’s imperfections we gain subliminal empathy and engagement. I think it is damn near a perfect moment as much because it is slightly imperfect, without calling attention to itself. Nicely captured and rendered for us “Frame-iacs”. (I just made that up, but you are free to use it Tomasz!)
Berry Bingel
February 27, 2024 at 12:54
No No No, just keep the leaves in the shot. I would also agree with Rick Bannerot, it makes the image more realistic.
Kind regards, Berry
Keith Fincham
February 28, 2024 at 05:59
I would have removed the leaves if I had noticed them beforehand. There is a surreal quality in the colour palette and the lines, the unblemished colours of the walls and the strength of the shapes. I love the image and the fact that you saw the opportunity to create something beautiful out of the mundane.