Rule of Thirds: Placing Subjects for a Balanced Composition
The Rule of Thirds divides the frame into a 3×3 grid, with two horizontal and two vertical lines. The idea is to place key elements of your scene along these lines or at their intersections. This creates a more dynamic and balanced composition, as opposed to centering the subject.

• Example: Positioning a subject on one of the vertical lines while leaving space in the rest of the frame adds balance and guides the viewer’s eye.

Leading Lines, Symmetry, and Framing: Techniques to Draw Attention

• Leading Lines: These are lines (like roads, rivers, or buildings) that naturally guide the viewer’s eye toward the main subject. They create depth and flow in the image.
• Symmetry: Using symmetry, such as reflections or mirrored scenes, adds a sense of harmony and balance. This works well in architecture and nature photography.
• Framing: Use elements in the scene (e.g., archways, windows, or trees) to frame the subject. This directs focus to the subject while adding context to the image.

Perspective and Angles: Shooting from Different Heights and Distances
Experimenting with perspective and angles can drastically change the feel of a photograph:

• Low Angle: Shooting from below the subject makes it appear larger or more powerful.
• High Angle: Shooting from above can make the subject seem smaller or more vulnerable.
• Close-Up vs. Wide Angle: Close-up shots emphasize details, while wide-angle shots capture broader context and scale.

The Importance of Negative Space and Background

• Negative Space: The empty space around the subject, known as negative space, can emphasize the subject and add simplicity to the image. It allows the viewer to focus on the subject without distraction.
• Background: A cluttered or busy background can distract from the main subject. Pay attention to the background and use it to complement the subject, whether by using blur (shallow depth of field) or finding simple, non-distracting environments.

By combining these composition techniques, you can create more visually compelling and balanced images that draw the viewer’s eye and convey your creative vision effectively.