Composition is one of the most important aspects of good photography,
it cannot be set automatically by the camera this is down purely to the
photographer. I believe that it is essential to learn the basic rules
of composition, before you can begin to break the rules of composition.
Yes I know what you are thinking that is a contradiction, well yes it
is, but you will begin to understand why it is important to master the
rules first before we can bend them, distort them and even break them.
Simple
things can make a big difference to the composition of your
photographs. You don't need to get too technical, something as simple as
changing the angle of your view by kneeling instead of standing upright
or just by taking a step to one side you will be amazed at the
difference it makes to the image. Just try it take a shot of an image
and then change your position by sitting kneeling or standing on
something, anything you can think of, just remember to stay safe and not
to take any risks.
Rule Of Thirds
The Rule of Thirds is one
of the oldest and one of the most taught rules of composition. Put
simply it you divide your image into a grid of 9 equal sections by using
2 lines running vertically and 2 line running horizontally.
The
idea is quite simple you place your point of interest where the lines
intersect rather than directly in the centre of your photograph. This
gives your image a more balanced appearance, when we look at any
photograph we tend to look at these points rather than the middle of the
image.
All DSLR's and many compact cameras these days come with a
feature that allows you to place a grid over your view finder, this
makes the process so much easier. As time goes on and you become more
attuned to doing this you will find that you don't even need the grid it
will become second nature.
When photographing landscapes divide
your image into three sky, horizon and foreground, then place your point
of interest on one of the intersecting line this will give your image a
much more powerful and dramatic effect. It does not need to be exact
remember this is a guide so don't become too bogged down with getting it
perfect. Practice taking lots of different shots and see which looks
the best, you will be amazed at how much your photographs improve and
how your confidence grows each time.