Perfect Pictures: Composition Tips for Better Photography

There a many components to a good picture, but none that distinguishes a good photographer quite like composition. By definition, composition means combining parts to make a whole. Each item in the picture has weight and your goal is to balance each weight in that picture, to create good, whole composition. By adhering to a few basic guidelines, you will be on your way to turning a typical shot into a work of art!

Simple Set Up

Rule of Thirds
Good photographers operate under 'the rule of thirds.' This is more than just not putting your subject right in the middle of the frame (which most photographers agree is the weakest point.) The 'rule of thirds' consists of dividing your frame into 3rds; horizontally and vertically. Then, place your subject at one of the intersections of the imaginary lines (of the 'thirds' grid) by placing a subject just off center you will create a more dynamic picture.

On the Horizon
In the same vein, a horizon line should never lie in the center of the frame either. It is much more artistic to ensure the horizon is aligned half way between the top of the picture and the middle, or the bottom of the picture in the middle. This is easily overlooked when capturing your subject, but also very easy to correct. Once you become mindful of it; a slight tip of the camera makes all the difference.

Middle Ground
When taking pictures, it is pretty common to consider the background. But there is more to a picture than a foreground and a background. Especially, when taking pictures of a wide area. This really comes into play in landscape pictures, but is certainly not isolated to that. So, when photographing a wide area, be sure to include a point of interest in the foreground, the center ground and the back ground. Focusing on something in the foreground can add depth to the picture and change the way you start to see everything through the lens.

Use Lines To Create Feeling

Often times, there are lines in a picture that you may not even notice till after the shot is developed. By scanning old photos, you can see these lines everywhere. For example; the horizon line (which is really very common) a fence line, the lines of a window or door, tracts of a train, etc. Did you know lines can create subtle effects in pictures?

Horizontal lines are said to create a peaceful effect. Diagonal lines add dynamics or generate a tense feeling. Lastly, a curved line triggers activity or often something sensuous.

Overall, lines will also lead the viewer's eye into and around the picture. So, before you click, consider the lines and the feeling they create. Make the lines work for you to set your picture up to be viewed as a whole, where every weight is worthy of study.

Simplify

A photographer once commented that interior photography is "10% creativity and 90% moving furniture!" This best illustrates what many photographers know...and many hobby "picture takers" miss; the art of simplifying.

The best pictures are ones that have uncluttered backgrounds inside or out. Less is usually more. If there is too much going on in a single shot, a viewer's eye is drawn to nothing. A good photograph displays a subject, and a context. A good photographer makes sure there is nothing else.

Context is a simple backdrop which adds relevance, contrast, and/or a location to the subject. Ask yourself, "Does this add to the subject, or distract from it?" If the things in the background or around your subject are not adding context, get rid of them or move your angle so they are not captured. Otherwise, they will ruin an A+ shot.

Position of Advantage

On the Level
When photographing pets, or children, get down to their level. Your composition will change if you are not standing over them. This way you can capture the detail of their features and concentrate on things eyes are naturally drawn to such as their eyes and hands (or paws.) From this angle, expressions look more natural, flash photos will be more evenly lit, and your height can set you up for better composition.

Go the Distance
Just as you change your position in height to help your composition, consider a distance change as well. A close-up shot, for example, is a more intimate approach. Standing back, then zooming creates a different effect than standing 1" from something. A tip to heed when photographing people is that if you want to flatter your subject you will probably want to minimize their nose. This can be achieved by standing about twelve feet from your subject, so that their nose isn't significantly closer to the lens than the rest of the face...then zoom. By doing this, you are allowing yourself more room with the composition and it will make a difference.

Here is a test. Take a look at a picture close to you right now. Maybe it is a magazine, or book cover or a painting on the wall. Think of the lines (horizon, or a more subtle line), the foreground, center ground, background and position of the eye that saw it. Examples of these things are all around you. As a photographer, make it your goal to pack these thoughts into a single frame and you will be on your way to a perfect picture.