Great selection of images for this assignment.
I really like the use of layers in your first image that provides the illusion of movement. You’ve used a character in your foreground who is moving and you’ve shown him against a backdrop of static individuals.
You’ve managed to isolate the movement of your 1 character while ensuring the rest of your image maintained a sharp focus. Great work.
In your second image you’ve provided the illusion of depth by using a shallow depth of field which has helped you isolate your main object away from the background without getting rid of the context of the shot.
From a compositional standpoint this photograph is very strong. The image abides by the rule of thirds and even more impressively; the image uses a strong yet simple color palette that helps draw your audience’s attention towards the critical elements of the shot.
Using an identifiable color palette is incredibly valuable in a photograph. It helps organize, provide mood and simplify otherwise chaotic scenes.
However, your background doesn’t over simplify the shot. The colors don’t act as “dead space” but instead provide context and texture. The greens and browns have gradients which help guarantee the image isn’t interpreted as boring or flat.
Great work on this assignment.