Category: Street.

Photograph: “Into the shadows” by Per Pettersson (username “Per Pettersson” on Flickr).

Originally shared on the Photofocus Flickr community right here.

Why I picked this image: 

If you look closer this street photo by Per Pettersson stands out in many different aspects.

First I like the composition symmetry of the straight and diagonal lines and how the image is diagonally cut into a dark and a bright area.

Secondly, the timing of the image was just right where the woman is not obstructed by anything in the foreground and even her shadow is clearly visible.

And thirdly, I like the optical illusion of the shadows that you only catch if you study this image closer. Did you notice that the shadow of the woman could resemble an old lady that may be on her way to sell a basket full of fruit or veggies on a local market? But this is clearly an illusion as we can see a young modern woman that may be on her way to work. And if you study the image even closer you will find out that the woman is not about to walk up the stairs as the dark diagonal shadow with the railing might suggest – but it is simply the shadow of the fence protecting people on the overpass from falling down.

Shadows can create great optical illusions on sunny days and make for clever and interesting street photos. Keep your eyes open for these shadows from now on. Per certainly has done a great job here!

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