Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and it’s often difficult to define why something is beautiful for one person and not for another. However, I have found a few general principles that should help you build a better photo:
1. Pick 1 object to focus on. Find a single point of interest, and build your photo around that Subject. If possible, frame your photo so that no other object competes with your chosen Subject.
2. Place that Subject on one of the points described in the Rule of Thirds. There are many fantastic descriptions of the Rule of Thirds, and it’s likely the more pervasive rule in photography.
3. Use leading lines to point to the Subject, or to show motion for the Subject. Leading lines help draw the viewer into the image and center their gaze on the Subject of your image.
4. Fill the frame of your photo with the Subject and objects that compliment the Subject (like leading lines).
Using the suggestions above won’t automatically produce a better image, and there are many times when you can ignore each of the suggestions. Your photograph is an extension of your artistic taste, express yourself and don’t let someone else and their suggestions or rules define your art.
• Joshua L. Smith • November 2015 •