Forced perspective is a filmmaking technique to make larger objects appear smaller to the viewer or vice versa, depending on their relationship to the camera and each other. Perspective--by definition-- is a particular person’s view of something. In a forced-perspective photograph, you are manipulating the perspective within a photo by playing with placement and depth. This can be done by placing a small item close to the camera, and a large item further away behind it. This technique was utilized in the early films such as The Lost World (Hoyt, 1933), and as recent as The Hobbit, (Jackson, 2012). The Hobbit employs forced perspective constantly to give the illusion of a towering Gandalf, or miniature humanoids--dwarves.
Let’s look at the math behind the technique! So how does our brain determine the size of things? It uses two things: angular size and context cues. Also utilizing things like aerial perspective, shading, and taking into account relative size, we can help the brain believe a false perspective. So, if two things have the same angular size we can think they in fact are the same size. Not making sense? Well..let me show you in pictures...there is a complex mathematical equation that goes with this technique, but we are going to eyeball it (I am not a math teacher so we will watch a mathematical explanation in video form). Video Explanation of the Math behind the technique! 5 Great Tips for Forced Perspective The Hobbit and Forced Perspective |
Your Assignment
1) Look at examples of Forced Perspective.
2) Try to recreate one of the photos you see, or an original forced perspective image.
3) Turn it into google classroom area titled "Forced Perspective Photography.".
Enrichment: So you have mastered the forced perspective photograph? Try creating a video or animated GIF using the forced perspective technique!
2) Try to recreate one of the photos you see, or an original forced perspective image.
3) Turn it into google classroom area titled "Forced Perspective Photography.".
Enrichment: So you have mastered the forced perspective photograph? Try creating a video or animated GIF using the forced perspective technique!
Resources
http://jestermind.com/the-changing-perspectives-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-vs-the-hobbit-films/
http://scribol.com/art-and-design/not-photoshopped-just-incredible-forced-perspective-photography/2
http://learnmyshot.com/tutorials/
http://learnmyshot.com/forced-perspective-technique-for-still-life-photography/
http://www.photoventure.com/2013/03/30/the-best-forced-perspective-photography-tutorials/
http://www.fact-index.com/f/fo/forced_perspective.html
http://www.wired.com/2012/12/how-to-make-a-hobbit-with-forced-perspective/
http://www.thephotoargus.com/tips/5-tips-for-creating-excellent-forced-perspective-photographs/