Careful positioning of your subject matter can make or break a great photograph. Take time to frame your photographs, and be aware of everything within the frame. Move around, room in with the camera or get a wider view.
Features
The key element to framing a photograph is to be aware of the subject, as well as the foreground and the background. Choose your subject matter and make it the focal point of the picture. Focus should be sharp on the subject and soft on the foreground or background to draw attention to the person or thing
Frame your focal point, or main subject, by using the foreground to enhance your framing. Stand under a tree and let the weeping limbs create a natural border around the subject. The natural lines of architecture can create a frame within the camera's viewfinder. Windows, arches and fences also create easy frames.
When framing a subject, always look past them and take note of the background. Look for natural distractions, such as street signs, garbage cans or telephone poles. Avoid placing the subject next to unnatural backgrounds or undesired elements.
Time Frame
Take your time when framing and composting a photograph. Don't simply raise the camera and shoot. Look around the perimeter of your viewfinder and make sure that everything you see within the frame is wanted in your final photograph.
Misconceptions
Framing your subject matter in the center is not always best. A photograph can be made more visually interesting when the subject is placed off center, allowing some of the surroundings to tell a story. This is very effective for vacation photos, group pictures around interesting scenery and in architecturally interesting locations.
Experiment with your framing by placing your subject in the center, to the left and to the right in the viewfinder. Shoot all three varieties, and choose later which one is most dramatic.
Type
Follow the classic photography rule of thirds. Imagine dividing your viewfinder into thirds, both vertically and horizontally. Where the lines intersect among the 9 boxes is said to be the perfect placement of the main subject.
Effects
Taking the time to frame your photographs carefully will leave you with more usable photos that will become "keepers." The solid composition, and more powerful photos, will be admired by friends and family, and have a more professional edge.
Tags: your subject, subject matter, your subject matter, everything within, everything within frame, focal point, foreground background
