It’s the first reflex of (too) many photographers: you have to take the picture right here, right now!
Too many photographers forget that their cameras are not doomed to shoot only where they just got out of the car. They are moved too much by their emotions, and think that the best photo is to be taken immediately.
Moving with your camera has a name: it’s composing your photo!
After the subject and the shooting, composition is the 3rd essential level of my creative pyramid.
I offer you 3 tips to better position yourself in front of your subject and find the best compositions.
And it works no matter what the subject type!
Tip #1: Rotate Around Your Subject to Get its Best Angle
Of course, start taking your picture where you feel there is something.
But then take more pictures by rotating around your subject.
Sometimes, it’s not always possible due to lack of space. But your photo will certainly be less banal if you take your subject otherwise than from the front.
Tip #2: Choose Your Background Carefully
If you have decided to take a picture of your subject, it is because it has captured your complete attention.
But before you start to trigger your camera, have you looked at what was behind your subject?
Maybe there are people passing through the frame. Any distracting object may intrude the field of view. Or the background is too confused with too many objects, too many colors or too many details.
If the background leaves something to be desired, try shifting your viewpoint to find a more pleasant one.
And it’s often easier than you think!
Tip #3: Find the Right Distance to Your Subject
Your subject may be great, but maybe you’re too close or too far away from it.
If you are too close, you may reveal a perspective effect that can be distorting for a portrait.
If you are too far away, your framing may be too wide when your subject deserves a tighter frame.
Show What Really Moves You
The right composition depends on the emotions you want to convey in your photo.
Remember that with digital, taking pictures is almost free. So, force yourself to experiment with different compositions!
Feel free to use your feet, knees or arms to find THE point of view that will highlight your subject.
Don’t take a souvenir photo anymore, but make the photo you will really remember as a great one.
What Do You Think?
Are you also succombing to the easy option of not looking for a better point of view? What prevents you from imagining other ways to compose your photo?
Leave me your comment, I will answer with pleasure.
Do you like what you’ve learned? Share this article with your loved ones!
Amauary, where are you? In 2018, you said you would be completing the lessons re photography & emotions. Are you okay? JB