Framing your compositions

Framing your compositions

A very common method of framing photographs involves the drawing of
imaginary lines, dividing your photo both horizontally and vertically into
thirds, creating four intersections. These are very useful reference points
for placing the most important elements of your photograph, say for instance
if you have a fairly small subject placed on one of the lower intersections in a
large landscape, it will create a much more dynamic picture than putting it right
in the middle of the picture. This method tends to work for most subjects.

You can use the same technique for say a beach scene where you would place
the horizon either across the upper third, to highlight an interesting beach, or if
you would like to show off a dramatic sky, you could place the horizon on the
lower third, creating a much more effective composition than simply placing the
horizon in the middle.

If you happen to have two important elements in your photo you may use the same
method, but this time putting the focal points on diagonally opposite intersections.