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Arms Quote by Garry Winogrand

“You use the vertical edge as the point of reference, instead of the horizontal edge. I have a picture of a beggar, where there's an arm coming into the frame from the side. And the arm is parallel to the horizontal edge and it makes it work. It's all games, you know. But it keeps it interesting to…” quote by Garry Winogrand
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“You use the vertical edge as the point of reference, instead of the horizontal edge. I have a picture of a beggar, where there's an arm coming into the frame from the side. And the arm is parallel to the horizontal edge and it makes it work. It's all games, you know. But it keeps it interesting to do, to play.”

Garry Winogrand

About This Quote

Source Photography: Street Photography Essays, 1975

Advocates using vertical references over horizontal to create dynamic composition, adding visual interest.

In simple terms: Use vertical lines to guide the eye and make images lively.

Key Takeaway

Experiment with vertical composition.

Themes

art visual storytelling composition

Mood

creative analytical

Type

educational inspirational

When to use this quote

  • portrait photography
  • advertising
  • film framing
  • graphic design

Key Concepts

vertical axis frame dynamics visual tension

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does changing reference affect viewer perception?
  • When is vertical composition most effective?
A Different Perspective

May not suit all subjects or styles.

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