Composing a Great Photograph

It may sound cliché, but the only rule in photography is that there are no rules. However, there are a number of established composition guidelines which can be applied in almost any situation, to enhance the impact of a scene.

Here are a few things to keep in mind!

Rule of Thirds:
Imagine that your image is divided into nine equal segments by two vertical and two horizontal lines. Try to position the most important elements in your scene along these lines, or at the points where they intersect. Doing so will add balance and interest to your photo. Some cameras even offer an option to superimpose a rule of thirds grid over the LCD screen, making it even easier to use.  Below, I position some interest in the upper third and placed the subject to the right.

Balancing Elements:
Placing your main subject off-center, as with the rule of thirds, creates a more interesting photo, but it can leave a void in the scene which can make it feel empty. You should balance the "weight" of your subject by including another object of lesser importance to fill the space. In this first photo, I digitally added interest to balance the photo.  In the second, the skier is focused to the left third, which allows the rest the photo to create interest, suggest action and tell a story.

Leading Lines:
When we look at a photo our eye is naturally drawn along lines. By thinking about how you place lines in your composition, you can affect the way we view the image, pulling us into the picture, towards the subject, or on a journey "through" the scene. There are many different types of line - straight, diagonal, curvy, zigzag, radial etc - and each can be used to enhance our photo's composition. Below, the path draws you (your eye) into the woods.

Symmetry and Patterns:
We are surrounded by symmetry and patterns, both natural and man-made., They can make for very eye-catching compositions, particularly in situations where they are not expected. Another great way to use them is to break the symmetry or pattern in some way, introducing tension and a focal point to the scene. Below, notice patterns, symmetry and a focal point.

Photography rules are made to be broken!  Let your inspiration guide you, but when uninspired try these tips.  Think about these "rules" the next time you pick up your camera phone or your compact digital camera and when you choose a professional.  Like me!

Let me know if this blog was helpful!