The way you fill your frame can be the difference between a "snapshot" and a truly moving photograph. Whether
you're producing fine art, or preserving everyday moments, these guidelines will take your photos to the next
level.
Rule of thirds
The perfect way to make photos more interesting is to imagine them divided into three sections horizontally
and vertically (like a tic-tac-toe game). Positioning your subject at the intersection of those lines will
break up symmetry and result in a more artful and compelling photo.
Cropping
You don't always get that perfect shot to begin with, so keeping the rule of thirds in mind, try cropping
your photo after you've shot it-either in your camera, or using photo editing software like
HP Photosmart Essential
to achieve the same effect.
Blurring the background focuses attention on your subject.
Simple backgrounds are best for subjects with busy patterns. If you don't have the luxury of the perfect
background, you can adjust your depth of field
to focus on objects closer to you, while blurring objects far away.
Likewise, simple patterns look best set against a detailed background.
An intricate background works well for subjects with simple patterns.
Also, be sure the background of your photo doesn't interfere with your subject and take attention away.
Objects such as poles or tree branches (a light in this case) can ruin your shot completely.
Don't let background objects ruin a perfectly good photo.
Horizontal orientation is not ideal for tall objects.
Your camera produces a rectangular image. This gives you two distinct orientations to work with-vertical or
horizontal. Often, your subject will lend itself to one or the other. One sure way to find out is simply to
take your photo both ways and decide which is best.
A vertical orientation is much more effective in this case.
Close-up photography adds intimacy to your photos. It brings the viewer in and helps capture all the hidden
details and moments you might not ever see.
Instead of that head-on portrait, try an over-the-shoulder shot instead. This adds a candid quality to your photos.
Break the habit of shooting everything from eye level. Experiment with kneeling down to capture subjects from
near the ground, or photographing subjects above you.
A photo taken from below makes your subject more dominant.
This doorway serves as a great natural frame for this subject.
You can frame your subject in your photo by taking advantage of various naturally occurring physical structures
or patterns. Doorways, windows, trees, bushes—almost anything can be used.
Creative ways to frame your subject are everywhere.
Take a free online class
in digital photography! Explore the many features of your digital camera, find tips for cropping and editing your
images, and discover new ideas for sharing your photos in creative ways.
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