Aligning objects to a certain grid in your photos will add balance and intrigue to your work. To do this, you must imagine your photo is divided into a grid of 9 equal parts, like the image below.
From there frame your image to adhere to these dividing lines both vertically and horizontally as best you can. You can also adjust the image to feature key elements at intersections..
2.Leading lines
As humans we are drawn to lines and symmetrical objects, therefore by taking photos based off of leading lines, it can help improve your composition. Common leading lines could include roads, train tracks, waterways, and other lines that can guide the eye through an image.
They don’t have to be completely straight though. For a more interesting leading line try a windy road or curved river. Find ways to lead lines to your subject or creatively tell a story.
3.Patterns
Taking a photo that involves patterns can quickly draw people in. The contrast and pattern in the image below make it both eye-catching and different from the usual photos of a lake or pond.
Look for patterns in this photo. You’d be surprised what you can find! Patterns can come about in the form of colors, shapes, unique alignments, and more.
4.Depth of Field
By adding depth or focus to your photos you can draw people’s attention to a specific object or part of a photo. In this case we focus on one particular flower in a tree full of them.
Practice depth of field to add intrigue to your photos, with a focused object and slightly blurred background. Shooting at a lower aperture will help you to add the depth to your photos and get increased blur. Depth of field works well with portraits.
5. Framing
This type of compositional technique involves using or adding frame elements to emphasize and lead the viewer’s eye towards your subject or to simply add interest to your image. It can be anything from natural frames like rock formations or man-made ones like windows and tunnels. Whatever shape or form, as long as it helps bring focus to your intended subject, it’s bound to create a more aesthetically-pleasing image.
6.Colour & contrast
Another easy technique is the use of color to create stunning photographs and strengthen the message behind your images. You can choose to include one or several bold and striking colors to make your subjects stand out or you can go for pastel shades for light and pretty visuals.
Complementary colors (such as blue and orange sunsets) are also great for creating a stunning and well-balanced image. You may also want to play with color temperatures to produce interesting results or use certain shades to evoke various emotions, such as happiness with bright yellows and mystery with darker hues.
