| Basics of Composition: Composing the Perfect Picture |
From "Photography"
episode DPT-102 |
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Placing the subject in the exact center of the photo is deadly, says DIY Photography host Rick Sammon. Instead, imagine a ticktacktoe grid on the viewfinder, and place the subject where the lines intersect. Have the subject look into the scene, not out of it. In other words, if you place her on the left, have her look to the right (figure A). The camera sees in only two dimensions, so you have to create the third. Angle your subject so you're not shooting straight on. Add a foreground element to create more depth (figure B). In an aerial photograph of snowcapped Mt. Everest Sammon included the cockpit of the plane in the frame. Remember to shoot vertically when that will give the photo more impact. You'll especially want to do this when photographing children. If you're not shooting a portrait, place your subject in the scene, adding environmental elements (figure C). Try placing the horizon line at different points to see how it affects your photo. You'll create dramatically different effects by moving the camera just a little bit.
RESOURCES :
Fabric Photos
Model: 093402653X
Author: Marjorie Croner
Interweave Press Inc.
Website: interweave.com
National Geographic Photography Field Guide: Secrets to Making Great Pictures
Model: 0792274989
Author: Peter K. Burian and Robert Caputo
September 1999
The Photographer's Handbook
Model: 0679742042
Author: John Hedgecoe
Knopf, 1998
Photography
Model: 0321011082
Author: Edited by Barbara London
August 1997
The Question-and-Answer Guide to Photo Techniques
Model: 0715301985
Author: Lee Frost
Out of Print
Camera Angles: Tips and Techniques for Professional-Quality Photographs
Model: 0896582353
Author: Rick Sammon & Steve Werner
June 1994
Nikon
Includes tutorials and mini-lessons on creating better pictures, digital cameras and more. Measurements are given in the metric system.
Nikon
Website: www.nikon.com
Kodak Information
Tips, techniques, tutorials and information on cameras and film.
To e-mail Kodak, click here.
To access Kodak's contact information, click here.
www.kodak.com
Kodak
Website: www.kodak.com
Rick Sammon
1 Fox Rd.
Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520
E-mail: RickSammon@aol.com
Web site: www.ricksammon.com
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