Composing the Image

fig 1 Poorly Composed Image

The biggest fault with most photographs is failing to fill the frame with the main subject. The main cause of this problem is that people do not look at the complete scene through the viewfinder. As long as the main subject is in there...somewhere, they just shoot.

Many photos are a disappointment because the camera user does not take enough time to look carefully through the viewfinder at what they are about to take.

The solution is simple, and can be done with any camera:

• Look into the viewfinder and make sure there are no wide open unnecessary spaces.
• Exclude detail that may clutter the image, taking attention from your main subject.
• Get as close to your subject as possible without cutting part of it out (unless that is your intention!).

It is important to "read" the entire viewfinder. Press the camera as close to your eye as possible and look carefully at the whole scene.

Practice looking at all four corners by looking from top left to right and then down and around. Make the necessary adjustments to the composition and then the photo is ready to be taken.

When taking photos in crowds, it is very difficult to isolate the subject and make it clear in the image.

In fig 1 there is a lot happening in the image. The main subject can be identified but he is fighting for attention in the image. Getting in close and keeping a tight viewpoint on the main subject will clearly identified it. Remember to always Communicate the Purpose for taking the image by clearly Identifying it.

fig 1 Portrait Format

Assuming you are using a digital, 35mm or APS camera, you will note that your pictures are rectangular. This gives you the choice of two formats, a horizontal or "landscape" format and by turning the camera through 90° you also have a vertical or "portrait" format. Use these different formats to maximize your subject.

The cropped version of our original image (Fig 2) is a good example of how getting in closer and using a different format can improve the image.

This is a typical example of the way an image can be improved just by changing the format. Fig 2 was taken in the portrait or vertical format. Turning the camera to the vertical format helps to close in on the subjects and isolate them in the image thus improving the composition.

A good rule of thumb to start with is to hold the camera horizontally when taking photos of groups of people (3 or more for example) and hold it vertically when taking one or two people.

There are no hard and fast rules in the composition of photographs, there are only guidelines. Using both formats will help you to develop a way of looking at a subject, filling the frame with what is important and excluding the 'clutter'.

More info...

If you want to learn more about all kinds of photography, take a look at our complete full length courses. All are tutor assisted with examples, full text and projects.

• Basic Photography Course For the beginner, this tutor assisted level 1 course assumes you have little or no knowledge of photography. Suitable for both digital and film users.
• Digital Photography Course This course shows how to capture digital images, use manipulation programs to add effects and enhancements, and print and display your work. Includes image restoration.
• Glamour Photography Course This level 2 course assumes you know your way around a camera. It takes you further with studio lighting setups, home studio, model portfolios, posing guide, multiple lighting guide, model releases, make up and more.
• Freelance Photography Course This level 2 course is essential if you want to make money with your camera. Imagine being paid to be do something you love doing, well you can now with School of Photography.com
• Black and White Photography Course Have you ever wanted to learn how to develop film at home? Then go on to make your own prints using an enlarger in a darkroom? Then this level 2 course is the right start for you.
• Landscape Photography Course Find out how to improve your landscapes with this level 2 course. Packed full of illustrations, examples, full text and projects.

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