Framing The Subject

Another compositional technique that you can try out is framing. Anything can be used as a frame to surround the main subject matter; tree branches, a valley with mountains or hills rising up from the sides or a building. The frame highlights the focal point, fills dead space or hides unwanted objects.

Hayward Lake Dam in Mission, B.C. framed by tree branches.

There were hydro poles and a car or two parked on either side of the dam. By framing the shot using the tree branches, I was able to hide those unwanted objects and highlight the water, the dam and the hills in the background.

Assignment

Look specifically for features that can be used as a frame for another object. It could be a person framed by an umbrella, tree branches as in this shot or a cove on the waterfront. Try and find at least three or four; more is better. Don't forget to incorporate the rule of thirds where appropriate and decide which orientation to use. Shoot in portrait or landscape - either might work well. As always, view full screen after downloading and see which are the better shots.