Take better photos

Take better photos

Arranging the perfect shot: Improve your digital camera photo composition by properly framing your subject, choosing the right backgrounds, and more.

Position your subject
The way you fill your frame can be the difference between a "snapshot" and a truly moving photograph. Whether you're producing fine art, or preserving everyday moments, these guidelines will take your photos to the next level.

• Rule of thirds
  

The perfect way to make photos more interesting is to imagine them divided into three sections horizontally and vertically (like a tic-tac-toe game). Positioning your subject at the intersection of those lines will break up symmetry and result in a more artful and compelling photo.

• Cropping
  

You don't always get that perfect shot to begin with, so keeping the rule of thirds in mind, try cropping your photo after you've shot it-either in your camera, or using photo editing software to achieve the same effect.

Choose the right backgrounds
Simple backgrounds are best for subjects with busy patterns. If you don't have the luxury of the perfect background, you can adjust your depth of field to focus on objects closer to you, while blurring objects far away.
Likewise, simple patterns look best set against a detailed background.
Also, be sure the background of your photo doesn't interfere with your subject and take attention away. Objects such as poles or tree branches can ruin your shot completely.

Imply distance and dimension
A photo of a distant subject can seem static and one-dimensional. Including subjects nearer to you in your photos gives a sense of distance.

Choose an orientation
Your camera produces a rectangular image. This gives you two distinct orientations to work with-vertical or horizontal. Often, your subject will lend itself to one or the other. One sure way to find out is simply to take your photo both ways and decide which is best.

Get close to your subject
Close-up photography adds intimacy to your photos. It brings the viewer in and helps capture all the hidden details and moments you might not ever see.

Use a unique point of view
Break the habit of shooting everything from eye level. Experiment with kneeling down to capture subjects from near the ground, or photographing subjects above you.

Use your surroundings to frame your subject
You can frame your subject in your photo by taking advantage of various naturally occurring physical structures or patterns. Doorways, windows, trees, bushes—almost anything can be used.