Composition Is the Backbone of Great Photography
It’s not just where things are in the frame—it’s why they’re there. A strong composition guides the viewer’s eye and tells a story without words.
Key Principles of Composition
- Rule of Thirds: Divide your frame into thirds. Place key subjects along those lines.
- Leading Lines: Use natural lines (roads, fences, arms) to draw attention to the subject.
- Framing: Use windows, doors, or foliage to create a “frame within the frame.”
- Negative Space: Leave breathing room to let the subject pop.
Practice Makes Progress
- Shoot the same subject from multiple angles.
- Try composing with just one lens or focal length.
- Review your photos and ask: Where’s the eye going first? Why?
Bonus: Break the Rules (When You Know Them)
Rules help you get started. But some of the most powerful compositions happen when you intentionally go against the grain. That’s when you start making magic.