Scale

Richard Anastiasi, 14, Life Scout from Washingtons Crossing, PA Bucks County Council Troop 227 shows off his “big fish” during the 2010 National Scout Jamboree in Fort A.P. Hill, V.A. Monday Aug. 2, 2010. Photo by Tom Copeland Jr

The key element in this picture is scale. We can immediately see how small the fish is because of the proximity of Richard’s hand and head. So we have a direct comparison of relative size. In this case, scale provides some humor to the picture.

There are some other elements at work here too. Follow a line from the elbow to the upper right corner of the frame. The line of the upper edge of the arm, continuing with the fishing line form a diagonal line.

Notice also the subtle reflections of other fishermen in the background of the picture.

This is a posed picture but is a common situation after a fisherman hauls in a catch. Find anyone with a camera and pose.