Camera Skills
what does a successful shot look like?
Notice what makes the following images unsuccessful?
Lighting can’t see
the
features
Photogra
pher is
too far
back,
notice
room
beneath
the
subject’s
feet.
Here the
subject
is
framed
nicely in
the
middle.
What angle
is this
taken
from?
Does it add
to the
image?
What’s in the
background?
Does it fit in
the frame?
Does it add
to the
image?
How to Frame
Let’s look at some highly
successful examples…
Know the Rules
Whilst many successful photographs play with
or break the rules of framing and angles it is first
important to know and follow the rules.
1. Fill the frame/Move in.
There are simple tips for those beginning
photography, like YOU to follow to help create
beautiful and meaningful pictures.
3. Rule of thirds - remember your grid
and purposely position your subject
(use the environment!).
2. Only keep what’s important to the
picture (move clutter out of the
background).
4. Create patterns (ie, colour, light and
dark)
5. Simplicity
1. Fill the Frame
The closer you get to your subject the more
control you have over WHAT gets in your image.
There’s no limit on how close your shot should
be, just pay attention to the features you want to
capture.
2. Background
First make sure to move your subject away from
any unwanted clutter in the background that you
don’t want.
You could also play with your camera’s angle,
zooming in, using clothes or props to hide
background clutter.
Lastly look for naturally occurring “frames” like
doors, windows or walls or create your own
frame to draw attention to your subject.
3. Rule of thirds
Try imaging what you’re shooting in a 3x3 grid.
The most simple way to get a clean picture is to
shoot something near to or right on the centre.
If you place your subject to the side, don’t let
clutter sneak in.
When you are extremely close up, pay attention
to the features you want in each section of the
grid.
4. Pattern
Look for or create patterns to add to the interest
of your image.
This could be:
Colour
Light and dark
The dark
desk and light
watch create
a pattern of
dark, light,
dark.
The texture
of the carton
and the eggs
creates a
pattern.
texture
The
photographer
uses different
colours for
affect.
5. Simplicity
Remember to keep it simple.
Focus on what message, mood or detain you
want to shine through in your image.
Very ordinary objects can become art simply
through proper framing, angles, light and
pattern.