Photographic Composition: Part 3

Framing

Framing is a technique used to give a picture extra depth and character. Luckily it doesn’t mean that you need to carry a picture frame around with you wherever you go. Framing uses naturally occurring objects in the foreground to frame your center of interest (main subject).

You’ll be amazed with the abundance of natural frames out there. These can include windows, doorways, architecture or even plants and trees. The possibilities are endless. It only takes a bit of imagination and experimentation to turn a normal snapshot into a work of art. Ideally the frame should relate to the theme of the picture; for example an architecture scene can be framed using windows or walls. Framing can also be quite useful in hiding undesirable foregrounds and backgrounds.

The image shown above illustrates the effective use of framing. A normal window frame in the foreground is used to frame the main section in the background to great effect. It immediately adds depth and interest to what could otherwise have been a rather bland shot of old ruins.