We discussed about how to use the flash and the macro mode on your compact camera to get the best out of your compact camera. You can read about Tip #1: Control the Flash here and Tip #2: Macro Mode here
Tip #3: Compose your shots
You would have heard professional photographers talking about composition. What to they mean by composing a shot? Technically, it is the arrangement of elements in your frame. Does it require a diploma in design to compose well? NO. The truth is, by following a set of simple techniques you can shoot amazing compositions which will make your friends and family go “WOW”!
Here are those:
Rule of Thirds
This is one of the oldest techniques, which was shamelessly borrowed from the painters. Imagine a tic-tac-toe grid. Place this across your image and where the lines intersect are your points where you should place your subjects. Most of the cameras now a days come with a grid to help you with this.
|
|
|
Lines
Lines play a very important element of composition. It draws the attention of the viewer to the main subject. Horizontal lines help divide the scene while vertical lines give a sense of strength and height. Try shooting an image with the diagonal line passing from the bottom left to the top right and see for yourself the power of lines!
Perspectives
Photography is a two dimensional medium while the subjects are in 3D. Perspectives help us add the third dimension by creating a sense of scale and depth. You can try keeping with one subject in the foreground and another a bit farther away in the background or try different positions while taking portraits.
You can also try with interesting backgrounds to make your photos come alive.
These techniques will help you get acquainted with the aesthetic aspect of photography. But don’t get constrained by these rules. Learn them and break them is the mantra. Keep clicking!
Update: Get all these tips, in a easy to print and carry ebook for FREE here
6 Comments for “Shoot like a Pro with Compact Camera – Part 3”