Photo Compostition

Snapshot- a quick shot, often spontaneous, taken to record a moment in time
Photograph- an image taken with care and thought

Rules of Composition

Rule of thirds- imaginary lines drawn dividing the frame of your camera into thirds both horizontally and vertically
place the horizon line at the top or bottom horizontal divider, fill up the entire frame with the subject for a close up image, or hit an intersection
Leading lines- use the lines created within the foreground or background of the composition to lead the viewer's eye through the photo
lines can draw attention to one or more intended subjects or a single focal point
Point of view- change the way your subject is perceived by changing the camera position
If you are photographing a subject that you want to seem very tall, compose the short so that the camera is looking upwards
If you want the subject to look small, compose the shot so that the camera is looking downwards
Simplicity- keep your backing simple and clear of clutter
The mood and effectiveness of a photo can be altered by what is in the background
A chaotic composition will cause the viewer to look away