What the @#$% is composition? (Part 1)

What the @#$% is composition? (Part 1)

Easily the single most important aspect of a great photo. Composition can and WILL make or break a photo from being a stupendous capture to an average generic snapshot. Wikipedia defines composition as such: "Composition is the placement or arrangement of visual elements or ingredients in a work of art. It can also be thought of as the organization of the elements of art according to the principles of art." Kinda Vague huh? There are many elements in composing a photograph, lets go over a few.

-Light-

Weither it be low light, high contrasts, flash, strobe, or long exposures, these situations contribute alot to the end result of your photos. Remember that experimentation goes along way to understanding lighting.

Here is more info on some lighting techuniques---->http://photography.about.com/od/takingpictures/tp/photographylighting.htm

-Depth of Field (DOF)-

Your choice in selecting the DOF of a photo can remarkably affect the focal point of the frame. Proper use can isolate your subject from the foreground or background or just as easily put into context that same subject by revealing its surroundings with a bigger DOF.

Can't get enough DOF? Check this out -----> http://www.livingroom.org.au/photolog/tips/depth_of_field_in_digital_photography_tutorials.php

-Textures- Photographers work in a two dimensional space. With a keen eye and some forethought one can make elements of the photograph pop into 3-D... well almost. Use of high contrasts or light hitting odd angles on the photo will be extremely useful.

Want more texture tips? -----> http://www.cgtextures.com/content.php?action=tutorial&name=shootingtextures

-Symmetry-

This somewhat contradicts the very well known Rule of Thirds( http://digital-photography-school.com/rule-of-thirds#ixzz0CUW1n9Ry ) but putting your photos focal point directly in the middle of your view finder might net you with surprisingly peaceful situations. Most of the time composing a photo from symmetrical purposes results in lame-ass shots, therefore training your eagle-eyes to look for situations where symmetry plays a strong role is critical.

Find your center with more symmetry info----->http://digital-photography-school.com/two-shot-strategy-symmetry

-Lines-

Yes, lines can and do make some quite interesting photos. Intersecting, converging, diagonal, horizontal and yes even vertical lines affect the shot, so teaching your self to notice and utilize these lines is essential on the long road to capturing great photos.

Here is some indepth info on converghing lines---->http://digital-photography-school.com/converging-lines

-Timing-Timing IS everything. The saying is true, regardless of other composition rules, a perfect timed shot is coveted by many. No matter the exposure, DOF, shutter speed or lens length getting that once a lifetime shot is epic.

Thats it for now... I hope your shutter actuations last a lifetime.