Have you ever wondered why some photos stand out from the rest? Of course, there are plenty of aspects that may catch our eye, but it’s most likely to have something to do with the composition.
With the rise of social media platforms, we’ve all seen countless photos that have been captured using common composition strategies; but, however impressive or technically correct they are, these shots tend to get lost in a sea of similar-looking images.
This is hardly surprising, as when we’re first introduced to photography, the use of classic framing methods is high on the list of things we’re taught. Straying from this path of tried-and-tested rules is not considered an option, although, in reality, not every interesting scene can be captured at its fullest potential by applying these traditional approaches. Sometimes, to create unique and extraordinary frames, it’s necessary to come up with an alternative way to consider the visual potential.
So, it’s time to put the tried-and-tested strategies, such as the golden ratio or the rule of thirds, on hold, and learn from compositions of other mediums that can help us cut loose from the familiar. Exploring the diversity of framing in photography starts with analysing juxtapositions and new visual possibilities that are waiting to be put into action. However, not every scene will benefit from creative compositions, so it’s crucial to not always use them as framing tools and, instead, see them as a way of considering the possibilities when capturing the subject.
This story is from the May 02, 2024 edition of Photography week.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 02, 2024 edition of Photography week.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
FUJINON GF 30MM F5.6 T/S
A stunning tilt-shift optic for Fujifilm's medium-format GFX system
HOW TO...ADD A TOUCH OF FLARE
Create lens flare effects in Affinity Photo, and master shapes, live filters, and colour tools with James Paterson
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Mike Harris shows you how to capture stunning portraits on location and in golden light
CREATIVE WAYS TO USE SHUTTER SPEED
Master the art of controlling shutter speed to create beautiful works of art
ASTRHORI UNVEILS BUDGET PORTRAIT PRIME FOR NIKON
Super-affordable 85mm F1.8 Full-frame AF lens is now available for Z mount
POLAROID I-2
With full manual controls and a huge price tag, is this instant camera worth the big bucks?
HOW TO...GO MONO WITH PROFILES
James Paterson shows you how to create brilliant black-and-white images with ease using Profiles
UNDERSTAND COLOUR THEORY
Adam Waring takes you back to art class with a primer in colour theory
MEET THE YOUNGSTER WITH A EYE FOR A WINNING PHOTO
Jamie Smart won a top contest aged just eight, and she's only just getting started
FAMILY BUSINESS
Pro portrait photographer Catherine O'Donnell passes on her top tips and techniques for capturing sponateous and engaging family photos in the studio