How to Compose a Photograph
Good composition is important because it will not only keep your viewer engaged, but it will also make your photo more interesting. These tips will help you take great photos. For most beginning photographers, it will take a while to develop an “eye” for composition, but don’t worry because you will get better.
1. When you are photographing your subject, always keep composition in mind. Do not rely on cropping them afterward. While it is okay to crop your photos, you do not want to be spending time cropping every single one in order to get an interesting photograph.
2. Firstly, consider the placement of your subject. You will want to avoid placing your subject in the middle of the frame. “Sweet spots” are where you want to place your subject.
To visualize these sweet spots, first think about a blank, rectangular photo. Next, draw 2 vertical lines that break the frame into 3 equal sections. Draw 2 horizontal lines that break the frame into 3 equal sections. There are 4 spots where these lines intersect, and these are called sweet spots. Experiment placing your subject in one of these imaginary sweet spots for a great photo.
3. If you use lines and texture creatively, your viewer will be drawn in. They will also be guided around the photos with these lines.
For example, if your subject is a spiral staircase, the lines will draw the viewer around the entire photo. A cycle can be made if you have grass that draws the viewer from the bottom of the photo to the top, and rays of sun that draw the viewer from the top of the photo to the bottom.
If you have horizon lines, try placing them higher or lower in the frame. You can use strong lines with subjects such as buildings, railroad tracks, ladders, or trees.