This image attempts to evoke a melancholy and longing. The bright blue water is contrasted by the faint jellyfishes that drift aimlessly. The blue emitted from this combines with the darkness outside to create deep tones. These give a somewhat sad feel, which is enhanced by the person on the right who is moving out of the frame. This sets the stage for the focal point and foreground of the image: the figure watching the jellyfish.
I had my brother pose in the corner of the aquarium window so I could place him where I wanted in the image. Then I aligned him so his head fell in at the intersection of the left third and bottom third of the composition. This placement draws attention to the outline. Because the figure is facing away, it feels like they are immersed in the emotion of everything else. So our eyes come to the person, we associate an emotion of sadness, and the effect is melancholic.
