Rules of Composing a Photograph
Most of us grab a camera and start clicking away not really giving much thought about what exactly we are taking pictures of. Sometimes this method is OK. After we look at the photo we are usually not impressed with the results.
Part of the trick of taking good pictures is THINKING. A photographer should think about or plan what it is they are interested in capturing. What is the highlight of the scene? What mood are you trying to convey? Thinking about questions such as these can help turn a plain picture into a WOW picture.
The six topics below should be considered each time you press the shutter release. Many, if not all, of these topics are used together on a single photo. A good photographer will learn these basic guidelines to enhance their photos and help avoid common errors. Remember that these are guidelines and not hard and fast rules. There will be times when "breaking" the rules can produce a great picture too.
Part of the trick of taking good pictures is THINKING. A photographer should think about or plan what it is they are interested in capturing. What is the highlight of the scene? What mood are you trying to convey? Thinking about questions such as these can help turn a plain picture into a WOW picture.
The six topics below should be considered each time you press the shutter release. Many, if not all, of these topics are used together on a single photo. A good photographer will learn these basic guidelines to enhance their photos and help avoid common errors. Remember that these are guidelines and not hard and fast rules. There will be times when "breaking" the rules can produce a great picture too.
Simplicity
- Choose simple, uncomplicated backgrounds when possible.
- Avoid competing with unrelated subjects in your composition.
- Move in close either physically of with a telephoto lens.
- Place subject slightly off center.
Rule of Thirds
- Avoid placing the subject in the center of the photograph.
- Place the horizon line at the top or the lower third of the photo.
- Leave space in front of moving objects.
Lines
- Keep your photo simple.
- Use lines to lead the viewer's eyes toward the photo's center of interest.
- Use the "S" curve to add interest.
- Use geometric shapes to add appeal.
Balance
- Balance elements in the photo either symmetrically or asymmetrically.
- Use balance that unifies the composition not divides it.
- Use arrangements of shapes, color or areas of light and dark in complementary way.
Framing
- Use foreground elements of the scene to highlight or define the center of interest.
Avoiding Mergers
- Always scan around the main area of interest paying attention to other objects and the background.
- Look for the 3 types of mergers: Object, Border, Near.
- Change YOUR point of view to help eliminate mergers.
Assignment
One of the ways to remember these rules is to practice them. I would like you to take an example of each with your own camera. If you are capable of downloading the examples and can e-mail them to me, please do. You can use my school e-mail address, [email protected]
Throughout the week I will collect and compile your examples and include them on this page. We will then review this information during our next class.
Throughout the week I will collect and compile your examples and include them on this page. We will then review this information during our next class.