Introduction To Photography Composition: Examples

Subject & Background

In photography, the subject is the main object of interest that the photographer is trying to capture. The background is everything else in the image that supports the subject. It can include other objects, textures, colors, and patterns. The background can also be empty space. When composing an image, photographers must carefully consider both the subject and the background. The relationship between these two elements can make or break a photo. For example, a busy background can distract from the subject, whereas a simple background can help to emphasize it. The best photos often strike a balance between the two, using the background to support and enhance the subject. With a little practice, anyone can learn to compose images with impactful subjects and backgrounds.

Light

Photography is all about capturing light. Without light, there would be no images. While that may seem like a simple concept, understanding how light works is essential to taking great photos. The type of light, the direction of light, and the intensity of light all have a big impact on the final image. For instance, harsh midday sun can create deep shadows and harsh contrast, while softer morning or evening light can produce more gentle results. By experimenting with different lighting conditions, photographers can create a wide range of unique images. Understanding how to use light is one of the key skills of any photographer.

View Point

Anyone who has ever been behind a camera knows that one of the most important elements of photography is finding the right viewpoint. After all, the angle from which a photo is taken can make all the difference in the world. A picture of a tree taken from ground level will look very different from one taken from high up in a nearby building. And even the slightest change in perspective can alter the feel of an image. For instance, a photo of a person standing alone in a field will convey a very different message than a photo of that same person walking towards the camera. The key to taking great photos, then, is to experiment with different viewpoints until you find the perfect one for your subject matter. You just might find that the best shots are ones you never would have thought to take.

Equipment

While some people believe that the equipment used for photography is not important, the right equipment can make a big difference in the quality of your photos. With advances in technology, today's cameras are more sophisticated than ever before, and they are capable of capturing images with incredible detail and clarity. However, even the best camera will only produce mediocre results if it is not used properly. In order to get the most out of your camera, it is important to have the right equipment. A tripod will help you to keep your camera steady when taking long exposures or shooting in low light, and a remote shutter release will allow you to take pictures without having to touch the camera, preventing blur. A filter can also be used to protect your camera's lens from scratches, and a UV filter can help to reduce glare.

Darkroom Processing

For many photographers, the darkroom is an essential part of the creative process. Working in a darkened room, they are able to control every aspect of the printing process, from choosing the right paper to manipulating the contrast and density of their images. While digital technology has made it possible to produce high-quality prints without ever setting foot in a darkroom, for many photographers the analogue process remains the gold standard. There is something about working with physical materials that can't be replicated digitally, and the hands-on nature of darkroom printing offers a level of control and flexibility that is simply unmatched. Whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist, if you're interested in producing the highest-quality prints possible, darkroom processing is definitely worth exploring.

Simplifying

In the world of photography, "simplifying" refers to the art of distilling a scene down to its essentials. This can be achieved through a variety of means, such as eliminating distractions, isolating elements, and using black and white tones. By simplifying a scene, photographers can create images that are more impactful and memorable. In many cases, less is indeed more.

California Dreaming

The Rule of Thirds

One of the most fundamental principles of photography is the rule of thirds. This guideline dictates that an image should be divided into nine equal parts, with the subject of the photo placed at one of the intersections. This simple composition technique can be used to create more balanced and visually appealing photos. Additionally, the rule of thirds can be used to help determine where to place the horizon in a landscape photo. When using this guideline, remember that the placement of the subject does not have to be perfectly symmetrical.

Brown Pelicans

Contrast

An important element of composition is contrast. This refers to the difference in lightness or darkness between different parts of an image. High contrast can create a more striking photo, while low contrast can give an image a softer, more delicate look. Contrast can also be used to draw the viewer's attention to a particular part of the photo.

St. Paul Church

Filling The Frame

One way to create more impactful photos is to fill the frame with your subject. This can be done by physically moving closer to your subject or by using a zoom lens to get closer without actually moving.

Hands

Pattern

The way in which elements are arranged within a photo can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of the image. When composing your photos, pay attention to the placement of different elements and how they interact with each other. By carefully arranging the elements in your photo, you can create more visually appealing and harmonious images.

Arlington National Cemetery

Balance

In photography, balance is used to create a sense of stability and order. Formal balance is created when the elements in an image are evenly distributed on either side of the frame. The key to creating successful images is to use balance in a way that enhances the overall message of the photograph.

Moonrise

Framing

Framing is the process of using elements in the scene to create a border around the subject. This can be done with physical objects, like doorways and windows, or with elements within the frame itself, like tree branches or lines on the ground. Framing can be used to highlight the subject, isolate it from the background, or create a sense of depth.

Memorial Church

Leading Lines

Leading lines are simply any line in the frame that leads the eye towards the subject. By carefully placing leading lines in the frame, photographers can direct the viewer's attention exactly where they want it to go. Leading lines can take many different forms, from actual lines on the ground to the edge of a building or even a person's gaze.

Brooklyn Bridge and New York City

Creating Depth

If you want to create beautiful, depth-filled photographs, there's a little bit more to it than that. To start with, you need to understand the concept of depth of field. This refers to the portion of the image that appears in focus. A shallow depth of field means that only a small part of the picture is in focus, while a deep depth of field means that most of the picture is in focus. By playing with the depth of field, you can create photographs with different levels of detail and interest.

Sunrise