Composition

The composition is perhaps the most important consideration in taking a good shot, and that’s what distinguishes a professional photographer from an amateur. As we often get caught-up in the shoot, or the beauty projected by the model. Always keep in mind, first compose, then expose.

Composition is not just how your subject is posing, it’s your subject and their pose, your background, foreground and how the whole frame is filled. The most common mistake people make when taking pictures is not filling the frame with the subject. Try to understand how each part in the photograph contributes to it.

The first rule is 'the rule of thirds' that is dividing the frame into thirds horizontally and vertically using two equidistant lines in each direction Undoubtedly the strongest points of any picture are the intersections of these lines, but especially the top right intersection, irrespective of whether your format is vertical or horizontal.

Selecting your viewpoint, the position from which you photograph the subject, is a very important part of composition and one that some people pay very little attention to. The first, most obvious difference between one viewpoint and another is the background. If you are photographing a subject that cannot easily be moved, the only way to change what is in the background is to choose a different viewpoint.

When it comes to the arrangement of the picture’s components, remember that the camera will not necessarily place the same emphasis on various elements that you do. Shadows will gain an importance they do not have in real life and come across as solid components, colours will command attention and backgrounds may command the same attention as foregrounds.

You need to translate these things when arranging the frame. A few basic elements of compositions must be kept in mind. Always identify a primary point of interest before taking the picture. When you’ve determined which area is the most important to you, you can compose to emphasize it. The second point is that if you can’t find an angle or framing to isolate your subject, consider using depth of field control to keep the background out of focus by opening up the cameras apeture. Contrast plays a very important role in a photograph therefore contrasting colors may be used for emphasis, but can become distracting if not considered carefully.

Direction of movement is also a very important part of the photograph. It is best to leave space in front of the subject so it appears to be moving into, rather than out of, the photograph.

Back