In landscape photography we always want to invite the viewer to come into our images. That is why I write so much about creating depth. We want the viewer to want to step into the scene. We want the viewer to wish he or she was there to see it, to experience it. So we are always looking for ways in which the image can beckon the viewer to come inside (even if it is just with their eyes). We want them to focus so much on what they see that they forget that they are not where the image is taken.

         To do this we carefully compose our images and we employ techniques that are inviting, calling the view forward (not sideways). As mentioned in the past some of these compositional tricks and techniques are:

• Using lines that lead into the image

• Using color

• Using brightness

• Placing objects strategically

• Having a strong foreground element

          Today I want to zoom in on using light to invite the viewer in. As I was walking in the sand invested building in the ghost town of Kolmanskop in Namibia I paid attention to light and dark areas knowing that the eyes will always be more attracted to the light areas than to the dark areas. Finding compositions were the light areas are where you want the viewer's eyes to go is our goal. Here is an example:

When you look at this image you will notice that it is not of a vast expanse. I do not have much depth to play with in this particular scene. By finding a spot where the brighter light is where I want the viewer's eyes to go I am creating a bit of depth because the inviting light is deeper into the image near the back of it. That light invites the viewer there. Just ask yourself, when you look at this image, where do your eyes go? Where do your eyes keep going back to? We can use light to lead peoples eyes just as well as we can use any other object or method.

          In post processing make sure to darken areas slightly so that they will not compete and be a distraction. Placing light compositionally is just as important as placing objects, in fact, it is probably more important.

Here you have two doors to go into. To which one do your eyes gravitate? If that light in the door to the right was the same as the light in die door to the left these two doors would have competed for your attention. Due to the light they are not competing. The door on the right wins hands down. Once again this example shows clearly the power of light as a compositional tool that can be used very effectively to direct the viewer's attention.

          Don't be afraid of using light and brightness to invite people to specific spots in your image. Composition is not just about placing object in the right places and using lines and foregrounds effectively. Composition can also be a function of light and brightness. Be on the lookout for brighter spots and ask yourself how you can make use therefore compositionally.