Framing your photograph can turn what would otherwise be a boring picture into a visually pleasing one. Often times an element in the foreground can be used to create the frame. Some examples of framing include using an overhanging tree branch, a window frame, a door, arches, a fence, rows of trees, etc.
Frames serve to isolate the main subject of your photograph and create an interesting composition. When framing your photograph it is oftentimes the feeling of depth you're after. At times you may decide to retain the detail of the frame (as in a wall, fence or branch), or let the frame go completely dark (as in a window frame).
When you are organizing a photo, look around the foreground (and sometimes, even middle or background) and find objects that can be used as a natural frame. At times you may need to physically back up a bit, kneel down for a more pleasant composition, or even zoom in to include your subject within the frame that you have chosen.
You can use image editing software to creating framing after the fact by combining two or more pictures. There are some very dramatic effects which can be accomplished this way and you are truly only limited by your imagination.
However, a word of caution is necessary here. Though there is nothing wrong with combining different images to create another one, be very careful about employing artificial frames on recognizable scenes and landscapes.
As an extreme example, don't frame the Statue of Liberty by the St. Louis Arch. Unless your purpose is to create dissonance within your viewers' minds, that picture will just look strange.
So, before you take that shot next time, look around and see if there is an object that you can use as a natural frame. Take a picture without the frame, and another one with the frame, and compare. Betcha, you'll like the one with the frame better!
Frames serve to isolate the main subject of your photograph and create an interesting composition. When framing your photograph it is oftentimes the feeling of depth you're after. At times you may decide to retain the detail of the frame (as in a wall, fence or branch), or let the frame go completely dark (as in a window frame).
When you are organizing a photo, look around the foreground (and sometimes, even middle or background) and find objects that can be used as a natural frame. At times you may need to physically back up a bit, kneel down for a more pleasant composition, or even zoom in to include your subject within the frame that you have chosen.
You can use image editing software to creating framing after the fact by combining two or more pictures. There are some very dramatic effects which can be accomplished this way and you are truly only limited by your imagination.
However, a word of caution is necessary here. Though there is nothing wrong with combining different images to create another one, be very careful about employing artificial frames on recognizable scenes and landscapes.
As an extreme example, don't frame the Statue of Liberty by the St. Louis Arch. Unless your purpose is to create dissonance within your viewers' minds, that picture will just look strange.
So, before you take that shot next time, look around and see if there is an object that you can use as a natural frame. Take a picture without the frame, and another one with the frame, and compare. Betcha, you'll like the one with the frame better!
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