Framing your photograph can turn what would otherwise be a boring picture into a visually pleasing one. Often times an element in the foreground can be used to create the frame. Some examples of framing include using an overhanging tree branch, a window frame, a door, arches, a fence, rows of trees, etc.
Frames serve to isolate the main subject of your photograph and create an interesting composition. When framing your photograph it is oftentimes the feeling of depth you're after. At times you may decide to retain the detail of the frame (as in a wall, fence or branch), or let the frame go completely dark (as in a window frame).
Some ideas to keep in mind when you are organizing a photo: look around the foreground (and sometimes, even middle or background) and choose objects that might be used as a natural frame. There will be times you may need to physically back or even kneel down for a more pleasant composition. You can even try zooming in to include your subject within the frame that you have chosen.
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.
A word of caution is necessary here, however. While there is nothing wrong with combining different images to create a separate one, please be very careful about employing artificial frames on identifiable scenes and landscapes.
As an extreme example, don't frame the Statue of Liberty by the St. Louis Arch. Unless your purpose is to create dissonance within your viewers' minds, that picture will just look strange.
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! - 15437
Frames serve to isolate the main subject of your photograph and create an interesting composition. When framing your photograph it is oftentimes the feeling of depth you're after. At times you may decide to retain the detail of the frame (as in a wall, fence or branch), or let the frame go completely dark (as in a window frame).
Some ideas to keep in mind when you are organizing a photo: look around the foreground (and sometimes, even middle or background) and choose objects that might be used as a natural frame. There will be times you may need to physically back or even kneel down for a more pleasant composition. You can even try zooming in to include your subject within the frame that you have chosen.
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.
A word of caution is necessary here, however. While there is nothing wrong with combining different images to create a separate one, please be very careful about employing artificial frames on identifiable scenes and landscapes.
As an extreme example, don't frame the Statue of Liberty by the St. Louis Arch. Unless your purpose is to create dissonance within your viewers' minds, that picture will just look strange.
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! - 15437
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