Composition Lesson 7
FRAMING
Framing is another technique photographers use to direct the viewer's attention to the primary subject of a picture. Positioned around the subject, a tree, an archway, or even people, for example, can create a frame within the picture area. Subjects enclosed by a frame become separated from the rest of the picture and are emphasized. Looking across a broad expanse of land or water at some object can make a rather dull uninteresting view. Moving back a few feet and framing the object between trees improves the composition.
An element used as a frame should not draw attention to itself. Ideally, the frame should relate to the theme of the picture.
Not only is framing an effective means of directing the viewer's attention, it can also be used to obscure undesirable foregrounds and backgrounds. The illusion of depth can be created in a picture by the effective use of framing.
Composition: Lesson 5/Assignment 3: (2 photos)
Take a photo with a natural frames.
Take the same photo without the natural frames.
Note the differences.
FOREGROUND
A large percentage of otherwise good pictures is ruined, because they include unnecessary or distracting foreground. This common fault can result from the photographer standing too far away from their subject when they take a picture, or the fact that normal focal length or standard lenses cover a relatively wide angle of view.
Undesirable foreground can be eliminated by moving in closer to the subject. Many already existing pictures can be improved by cropping out meaningless or distracting foreground. In most cases, the foreground should be sharply focused and of sufficient depth to furnish substantial support for the subject. No object in the foreground should ever be so prominent that it distracts from the subject. You should clear the foreground of items that have no connection with the picture. The ultimate example of carelessness on the part of the photographer is to leave his or her camera case where it shows in the picture. Generally, the foreground contains the leading line that is the line that leads the eye into the photograph and toward the point of interest.
BACKGROUND
The background is almost as important an element in good composition as the camera angle. Too often it is overlooked when composing a scene since the photographer normally gives so much attention to the subject. Be particularly observant of the background to see that it contains nothing distracting. A tree or pole that was unnoticed in the distance behind a person when composing the scene may appear in the photograph to be growing out of his or her collar or supporting his or her head.
The background should be subordinate to the main subject in both tone and interest. It should also make the subject stand out and present it to best advantage. Unsharpness and blur are effective ways for separating the subject from the background. Unsharpness can be accomplished by using the "close up" setting on your camera so that your focal point is sharply focused and your background is out of focus. Occasionally, you may want to reverse these effects and record the subject unsharp or blurred and the background sharp.
Composition: Lesson 5/Assignment 4: (2 photos)
Take a photo with your focal point in the foreground with very sharp focus, while your background is fuzzy.
Take a photo with your focal point in the background with the foreground fuzzy.