Tag Archives: composition

Creative Composition

Remember the “Family Tree” photo my pal took of her entire clan perched on various branches in an actual tree? I still can’t get it out of my mind. Each time I pass the photo (which now adorns my refrigerator) I have to smile. While I marvel at the creative composition of the photo I also have to chuckle because I know there would be no way I could convince my own family members to pose for a similar shot. (I have visions of my 5’1” 98-pound mother being hoisted on to an upper branch by my 5’11” brother and … Continue reading →

Tips for Improving Your Shots

If you are spending more time deleting your photos on your digital camera than you are printing them out perhaps it’s time for a photography refresher course. Look over your most recent shots and figure out what is keeping you… from keeping them. Is it bad composition? Poor lighting? Or is your photo subject possessed with the dreaded red-eye? In most cases a bad shot can turn into a keeper by following a few simple pointers: COMPOSITION Remember the “Rule of Thirds.” It’s one of the most important lessons in photography, which requires you to imagine a tic-tac-toe grid over … Continue reading →

Photography Potpourri: The “S” Curve and Photo Puzzles

THE “S” CURVE In a previous blog I discussed the importance of proper composition and the use of the “Rule of Thirds.” Another helpful composition tip is the use of the “S” curve. For example, S-shaped roads, waterways, even train tracks can help spice up otherwise boring shots. “S” curves give a photo much welcome “depth.” And they are easy to capture provided you are willing to move around a bit. Don’t hesitate to bend down or climb an embankment (preferably one that is sturdy) in order to frame the “S” shape just right. Another way to add depth to … Continue reading →