Rule of Thirds

Imagine that your image is divided into a grid. You should position the most important elements in your image along the lines of the grid.

Balancing Elements

Place the main subject off center, which creates a more interesting photo. Balance the weight of the subject by including another object of lesser importance to fill the space.

Leading Lines

Eyes are naturally attracted to lines. They can pull someone into the picture, towards the subject, or on a journey through the scene. Any type of line can be used to create this effect.

Symmetry and Patterns

Symmetry and patterns are found everywhere. Include them in photos to catch peoples’ eye. You can also use them when they are not expected, or break them up to create tension and a focal point.

Viewpoint

Take time to think about where you will shoot the photo from. Viewpoint has a massive affect on the composition of the photo, and affect the message the shot conveys. Consider shooting from high above, down below, ground level, side, behind, far away, close up, etc.

Background

Look for a plain and unobtrusive background and compose your shot so the background doesn’t distract or detract from the image.

Depth

You can create depth by including objects in the foreground, middle, and background. You can also overlap, where you obscure one object with another.

Framing

Trees, archways, and holes are natural frames. Place these around the edge of the composition to help isolate the main subject from the outside. It results in drawing eyes to the main point of interest.

Cropping

If the main subject is too small, it can become lost among the rest of the photo. By cropping, you eliminate the background noise, and makes sure the subject gets full attention.

Experimentation

With digital photography, you don’t have to worry about running out of shots or film processing. Experimentation is now a real possibility. Take advantage of this fact and experiment with your composition.