Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Learning how to frame compositions and employ composition themes is a
means of stimulating this process.
Framing Compositions
Positioning and proportioning a frame around a subject is one of the most
powerful tools you have in creating art. Consider filling the frame with the most
intriguing part of the picture to generate interest. Sometimes this means zoom-
ing in or moving closer to the subject. Rotating the frame also adds a dynamic
tension that can be compelling (see Figure 1.3).
FIGURe 1.3
Framing compositions is an art.
Part of framing compositions is removing unwanted elements from the pic-
ture. The easiest way to do this is in the camera's viewfinder or LCD screen at
the time a photo is captured.
When framing compositions, you should also consider the dimension of
depth, which can be thought of as foreground, subject, and background. Don't
include foreground or background elements at the expense of your subject. In
landscapes, show more of the sky or ground according to which element you'd
like to accentuate. In portraiture, the rule of thumb is to show more of the
foreground than the background or risk losing the viewer's attention in compo-
sitional depth. Leonardo da Vinci bends this rule in the most famous painting of
all time by painting two different landscapes with slightly different viewpoints
behind Mona Lisa, accentuating the mysterious visual tension started in her
enigmatic smile (see Figure 1.4).
O
You can also reframe
images postcap-
ture by cropping
or retouching in
photoshop to remove
unwanted elements.
