The use of a frame can turn an otherwise plain picture into a pleasing one. Usually a foreground element is used to create the frame. Examples are an overhanging tree branch, a window frame, a door, arches, a fence, rows of trees, etc.
The goal in using a frame in your photo is to isolate the main subject and construct an appealing composition within your photo. Many times it is used to create a feeling of depth. You may decide to keep the detail of the frame (as in a wall, fence or branch), or let the frame go completely dark (as in a window frame).
Look for objects that can be used as a natural frame in the forefront (and even in the middle or background) when you are composing a shot. Take in all aspects of what is available in the environment of your subject. You might need to change your viewpoint or angle to include your subject into a chosen frame.
Framing can also be done after the fact by combining two or more pictures in an image editing software. Very dramatic effects can be accomplished this way and you are only limited by your imagination.
Be careful when adding a frame through digital editing though. While you can certainly combine features of different images together, be cautious about adding artificial frames on familiar scenes and landscapes.
Nothing could look odder than the Eifel Tower being framed by the Great Wall of China. Unless to are trying to create a dissonance to the viewer, a picture of that extreme will only look bizarre.
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!
The goal in using a frame in your photo is to isolate the main subject and construct an appealing composition within your photo. Many times it is used to create a feeling of depth. You may decide to keep the detail of the frame (as in a wall, fence or branch), or let the frame go completely dark (as in a window frame).
Look for objects that can be used as a natural frame in the forefront (and even in the middle or background) when you are composing a shot. Take in all aspects of what is available in the environment of your subject. You might need to change your viewpoint or angle to include your subject into a chosen frame.
Framing can also be done after the fact by combining two or more pictures in an image editing software. Very dramatic effects can be accomplished this way and you are only limited by your imagination.
Be careful when adding a frame through digital editing though. While you can certainly combine features of different images together, be cautious about adding artificial frames on familiar scenes and landscapes.
Nothing could look odder than the Eifel Tower being framed by the Great Wall of China. Unless to are trying to create a dissonance to the viewer, a picture of that extreme will only look bizarre.
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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