Daisy

"I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious" - Albert Einstein

Category: Wrong!

Photographic Rule Breakers – Blog Post 2

Red Stool

In this photo, I effectively used the contrast rule by showcasing the vibrant red of the stool against the black background. This high contrast makes the stool the focal point of the image, drawing immediate attention. Additionally, the simplicity rule is used, as the minimalistic composition eliminates distractions, which again attracts the viewers to focus solely on the stool and its striking color.

Abstract Tree

In this photo, I highlighted the shape and form rule by capturing the unique silhouette of the tree model. The blurred outlines create an abstract quality that emphasizes its interesting shape, encouraging viewers to interpret the image creatively. The use of shadow play adds depth and dimension, making the tree appear more three-dimensional and enhancing the overall visual intrigue.

Blurry Lights

I effectively utilized the bokeh effect in this shot, where the out-of-focus lights create a soft, dreamy background that adds an artistic flair. This technique draws attention to the play of colors and shapes rather than the details of the lights themselves. Additionally, the movement rule is present here; the blur suggests energy and dynamism, making the lights seem almost alive.

Colorful Human

In this artwork, I applied the color harmony rule by balancing vibrant colors in an engaging way. The colors complement each other, creating a visually pleasing effect that captures the viewer’s attention. The use of motion blur conveys a sense of creativity and fluidity, giving the impression of action and making the artwork feel more dynamic and alive.

Abstract boxes

In this artwork, I applied the color harmony rule by skillfully balancing vibrant colors that complement each other, creating a visually pleasing effect that captures the viewer’s attention. The use of motion blur adds to the piece by conveying a sense of creativity and fluidity, giving the impression of action and making the artwork feel dynamic and alive.

Puzzle Pieces

This picture demonstrates the dynamic composition rule by arranging the puzzle pieces in a scattered, seemingly chaotic manner. The action of tossing the pieces creates a sense of movement, making the viewer feel as though they are part of the experience. This composition adds visual excitement and engages the audience’s imagination.

Flowing Water

In this photograph, I effectively used the long exposure rule to capture the smooth, flowing movement of the water. This technique creates a soft, ethereal effect, allowing the water to appear like gentle lines or silk. The composition rule guides the viewer’s eye along the flow of the water, enhancing the sense of tranquility and natural beauty.

Fern Leaves

I showcased the layering rule in this image, as the blurred stripes of leaves create a rich, complex composition. The intentional blurriness adds a dreamy quality, drawing the viewer into the scene and encouraging them to explore the layers. This technique creates a sense of depth and intrigue, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Playground Scene

In this panorama shot, I applied the juxtaposition rule by contrasting the lively action of your friends on the swing with the more static elements of the background. This creates a sense of movement and fun in the scene. The framing rule is also evident, as the architectural elements in the background help to frame the action, guiding the viewer’s eye toward the focal point of the swings.

Context – its about the title – Blog Post 1

John Baldessari’s photograph Wrong (1967) looks simple, but it’s actually one of his most famous and thought-provoking works. At first glance, it just seems like a badly composed photo. Baldessari is standing in front of a suburban house, but a tall palm tree appears to grow straight out of his head. Anyone learning photography would be told this is a “mistake,” because it breaks one of the most basic rules of composition — avoid having background objects “cut into” or overlap awkwardly with the subject.

Below the photo, the word WRONG is printed in big letters. This label feels blunt and almost funny, but it is also deeply ironic. By boldly stamping the word “WRONG” on his own photo, Baldessari forces viewers to think about how we judge images. Who gets to decide what is right or wrong in art? Why should a technical “mistake” automatically make an image bad?

This piece shows Baldessari’s resistance to the strict rules of traditional art and photography. Instead of following conventions like the “rule of thirds” or “perfect framing,” he deliberately breaks them. In doing so, he shifts the focus away from technical skill and toward the idea behind the image. This is central to Baldessari’s philosophy as a conceptual artist. He believed that the concept of the work was more important than how it looked.

The irony is what makes Wrong so clever and appealing. The word “WRONG” is a judgment, but by putting it right under his own image, Baldessari takes control of the label and turns it into part of the artwork. Instead of discouraging viewers, it makes us laugh and reflect on the idea that art should not be boxed in by rules. In fact, Baldessari’s choice to make something “bad” on purpose proves his point: art can be powerful even when it ignores conventions.

This connects to his later piece I Will Not Make Any More Boring Art (1971), where he used text to push against predictable, repetitive art practices. Both works show his playful but serious goal: to challenge the idea that art must meet outside standards of quality. For Baldessari, art should provoke thought, spark conversation, and question authority.

For me, Wrong is both humorous and freeing. It reminds us that creativity doesn’t come from following rules — it comes from questioning them. Baldessari shows that even a “bad” photo can become a legendary artwork when it asks the right questions.

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