Photography - Rules of Composition

by Richard Schneider

Composition is defined as the combining of distinct parts or elements to form a whole. In photography that definition is very important in taking quality pictures. The following rules of composition should be learned and considered but not necessarily used in every photo. Once you have learned these rules you will be more observant of the possible photo opportunities that surround you. But keep in mind that the really famous photographers usually find a creative way to stretch or break the rules of composition.

Rule of Thirds
The rule of thirds has been used through the centuries and is probably the most recognized rule. The rule of thirds directs that the frame can be divided into three vertical sections and three horizontal sections. Wherever the separating lines connect is an ideal spot for a subject or point of interest. By positioning your main subject at any of the four intersection points, you are giving your subject more emphasis than if it is right in the middle of the photo. The intersection points can also work if there is more than one main subject in a photo. Most famous photographs and paintings have the rule of thirds applied to them in some way or another.

Simplicity
The simplicity rule directs that you should keep the items in your photo relatively simple. If your main subject is close to the lens, then your background should be very simple in order to avoid distractions. Another good idea is to avoid objects or lines that lead the eye away from your main subject.

Contrast
The contrast rule directs that light subjects should be placed against dark backgrounds and vice versa.

Framing
The framing rule directs that using natural surroundings mindfully can add more meaning and focus to your subject. The surroundings could be anything such as bushes, windows, trees or even a doorway. When using this rule be sure to focus on the main subject and not on the surroundings that are framing it. It is also a good idea to use a narrow aperture (high f/stop) when using this rule in order to create a high depth-of-field.

Texture
The texture rule can add a great amount of interest to most photos. When people see texture in a photo it can spark their imagination and make the photo more real to life. Texture would be a good idea when taking photos of rocks, walls, surfaces, hands or even leaves. In order to create texture try to compose your photo so the light is coming from the side and therefore casting shadows in key places.

Diagonals
The diagonal rule directs that diagonal elements or lines can make a photo more dynamic. Diagonal elements could be fence posts, roads or even tree branches.

Leading Lines
The leading lines rule can be used to direct the eye deeper into a photo and commonly to the main subject. Leading lines can lure the eye to a subject by leading to it from any side or depth of the photo. Leading lines could be roads, rivers, tree branches or even bridges.

Color
The color rule is what adds interest and emotion to your pictures. Different color configurations can inspire and amaze viewers. Colors can also be used to accent certain parts of a photo.

It might not be a bad idea to keep these key terms with you when you practice taking photos. The best way to learn and improve your composition is just to use them often and to experiment.

Techniques In Photography

by Low Jeremy

Like all fields, photography, professional photography at that, is not as easy as one may think. In fact, it is actually quite hard to produce photographs that will grab one’s attention in an instant. Here are some tips that can get you started.

Simplicity
In composing photos, one must remember that the fewer objects there are, the better. Simplicity is good in photographs as there should be few distractions from the main subject. Cluttering the photo with so many elements will only For instance, it is not good to take photos of a crowd without a main focal point for instance a building, a colorful object or an image that you can focus your into.

It is necessary to find a point of interest and then do your best to highlight it or emphasize it by using the other techniques that will be mentioned later in the article.

To practice on your composition, you should study advertising photos in newspapers. You should also scan magazines for photos or visit photo exhibits.

Contrast
Another technique that one must learn is contrast, as this makes for a great and interesting photo. For instance, a colorful subject will shine more when placed in a dark background. The same goes with for instance an African American with dark skin set against a backdrop of colorful textiles. Another example is pairing up a small and a large object. By using contrast, you are not only highlighting one but two focal points, which will draw the eye into the photo.

Balance
Generally, imbalance or any asymmetric element in the photo will be able to make the articles more interesting. This means that placing the subject off center is vastly more preferable than putting it on the center. This is actually contrary to what most people think that subjects should be in dead center.

Framing
Another technique in photography is the framing. This is when you use an element in your composition to stand as a frame for the main subject. For instance, a branch of a tree serving as a frame to a couple of lovers sitting underneath it is better than just a shot of tree with the lovers under it. This will emphasize the subject better. One thing that photographers must remember though with framing is that the subject must be the sharper element. Focusing on the frame rather than the subject will only distract the eye from your focal point.