Taking great photos has never been easier. With a digital camera, you can take as many photos as you have the battery and storage capacity for, so it’s just a matter of going for it. With that in mind, use these rules for what they’re worth, but don’t forget that the photo needs to be taken. Subjects can change and things can happen while you’re thinking about angles, light and lines. So remember to snap away!
1. Simplify the view.
Your eyes quickly pick out what’s of interest when you look at something. The camera can’t distinguish this, so everything is included. The result is a messy image with no clear subject. So you need to simplify the view. Use silhouettes and patterns. Move around until you get the shot you want and as little else as possible.
2. Avoid the middle.
It’s natural to want the subject in the center of the image. But this usually results in static, boring images. Think about movement and direction. Where are things heading? Divide the section into thirds and place the subject in one of these.
3. Space to move around in.
Things that move must have space to move into. A car or someone running can’t just drive/run out of the frame, you need to leave room for movement. There should be a little more space in front of the subject than behind.
4. Look for diagonals.
Horizontal lines feel static and calm, vertical lines feel enduring and stable. So if you can find some diagonals that can give you some drama, movement and tension, it can create variation. If you can’t find any diagonals, you can create some by tilting the camera.
With these rules in mind, it’s easier to take photos that aren’t just a documentation of something happening. If you can remember a few of these things, you can take your photos to the next level. If you’d rather let someone else do the work for you, get in touch with Kristine at Sveum Design. Get help with photography and image processing, and get a result you’ll be happy with.
