Taking photos is more than just pointing your camera toward your subject and clicking the shutter button. If you want to take better photos, you must first compose your subject and that’s where spoutFIRE comes in.
In this blog, we’re going to run through some of the most basic composition rules in photography that we think everyone should know. Knowing these things can make or break the output of your photos so it’s important to tackle them in detail. Keep on reading to learn more about them.
Don’t cut off the limbs of your subject
When you’re taking photos of people and animals, make sure not to cut off any of their limbs with your framing. For instance, don’t crop the forehead of your model by making your graming too low.
Doing this will make the subject look incomplete which will make the overall photograph look odd. Don’t get us wrong, some shots and angles intentionally crop the subject but if you’re not going for these techniques, we recommend taking a double-take on your framing.
Use natural frames
The great thing about photography is that you’ll find several things outside that would make a great subject. However, did you know that the great outdoors can also provide natural frames for photography?
From arches to bridges or even building gaps, you can find great things during your exploration that would be great to frame your main subject. All you have to do is use your eyes and get those creative juices flowing!
Know the rule of thirds
The rule of thirds makes use of the grid found in your camera’s viewfinder. If you’re unfamiliar with this grid, all you have to do is visualise 9 equal rectangles on your screen which are divided by two horizontal and vertical lines.
The idea behind this is that you should place your subject on one of the intersecting points of the four lines. Moreover, you can also use the grid as a guideline for your composition. For instance, you can use vertical lines to capture trees and buildings while horizontal lines can be used for taking photos of flat surfaces and horizons.
Every photographer should know this rule as it’s one of the first things that will be taught to you when you want to take better compositions.
Don’t oversaturate your photo
Sometimes, simplicity is key when it comes to taking photos which is why it’s important not to oversaturate your composition. Doing this might take your viewer’s attention away from the subject which is the most important part of your photo.
To avoid this from happening, maintain the focus on your subject and keep the foreground/background elements at a minimum. We’re not saying that you should restrict your photo from having other elements but make sure that the focus doesn’t stray away from your subject.