Framing your Photo
July 19, 2008
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).
When you are composing a shot, keep your eyes open to foreground (and sometimes, even middle or background) objects that can be used as a natural frame. You may need to physically back up a bit, kneel down for a more pleasant composition, or zoom in to include your subject within your 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.
As an extreme example, don’t frame the Washington Monument with the Great Wall of China. Unless your goal is to create dissonance within your viewers’ minds, a picture with an intense difference will only come across as strange.
Next time you go to take that photograph, check out what you might be able to use as a natural frame. Experiment with this, and if you have any doubts, take one photo with a frame and one without. I bet you’ll find you eye drawn to the one making use of a natural frame.
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