Rather than placing your main subject in the middle of the screen, place it
to one side and ensure something interesting is in the background that fills
the remainder of the image.
This can be especially effective if the background has the same theme. For
example, if photographing a child opening a Christmas present, frame them to
one side and have the Christmas Tree with unopened presents filling the rest
of the image.
There are a few guidelines that can help you place your subject in the
frame. On a recent post i mentioned a very similar tip about getting in tight and pushing to one side. This technique alone will improve your photography out of sight...
The Rule of Thirds
One of the most popular rules in photography is the "Rule of Thirds". It is
a simple rule that can add dynamism to your photos. Simply, divide the image
into thirds both horizontally and vertically. When composing your shot,
place important elements either along these lines, or where the lines
intersect - NOT at the centre of the frame.
For example, place a subject's eyes where the top line is, or place your
subject on the place in the image where two of these lines intersect.
It's a very simple rule to follow and will result in a nicely balanced, easy
on the eye picture. It also helps get rid of the 'tiny subject and large
amount of space' tendency because you need to position items relative to the
edges of the frame.
Having said this, the Rule of Thirds is also one of the rules you'll want to
break often! This is fine - the Rule of Thirds is more of a guideline and
sometimes you will find a better image when you break the rule.
BELOW: I have sent you 2 different shots to show you where the rule of
thirds comes into play to make a better shot. The portrait of Amy is showing
that the eyes should be close to or on the cross line and the landscape of
Cronulla is showing that horizons sit very well on the upper or lower third
line.... Give these rules a try ... You will notice a huge improvement in
the way your shots will come across to you...
Next time : Some tricks to get winning shots involving one of the most
troublesome subjects - children!
Sydney Wedding Photography
