Looking to achieve a stronger visual impact from your travel photos? Let this infographic show you how framing, a simple but sometimes overlooked composition technique, helps to direct the viewer’s eye to your subject and adds depth and dimension to your travel photos.

 

Framing is a popular technique within a composition that emphasises your subject by adding a focal point so your viewer knows exactly where to look.

Learn how to master this technique to achieve more interesting and engaging travel photos.

What - Here’s what you need to know about framing in photography

Framing draws focus to the subject by covering other parts of the image with something in the scene. Frames can be located in the centre or along the edges of the photo to create interest, depth and balance. You can find frames everywhere - from natural elements such as tree trunks, to light and shadow, and unexpected arrangements of things created by the human hand.

 

Why - 3 reasons why you should frame your shots

1. Give context

Framing tells your viewer something about the person or place the photo was created. Elements around your subject not only form a frame, but add a story too. For example, the dense trees and leaves that frame this image indicate it was shot in the height of autumn.

2. Bring focus 

Framing adds a focal point, which emphasises the main subject of your photo. Not only does it lead your viewer’s eyes in the photo, but creates a flow that keeps them there longer, separating your subject and the outside of the shot in a creative way.

3. Add intrigue

Sometimes, what is not obvious in an image makes your viewer linger and look at it a little longer. With the help of clever framing, your viewer is able to wonder or imagine what’s going on beneath the frame.

How - 3 ways to frame when composing your shots

1. Using architectural elements

Look for arches, doorways or any area that give you a ‘window’ to shoot through. You don’t have to place your subject in the centre of the element; try having them on one side and use the Rule of Thirds to good effect. This can work well for sightseeing in urban or rural areas.

2. Using light and shadow

This is a subtle but effective way to make your subject stand out. Light and shadows can help to isolate your subject and ensure it is the most important part of the photo, while the rest of the image fades to black. Photographing a subject seated underneath a street lamp is a good example.

3. Using sub-framing

Why stop at one frame? Have a sub-frame within your frame to add depth and bring your viewers' eyes straight on to the subject. In this way, you change a typical framed composition to a more quirky one, giving the image a more interesting mood.

Framing is not the only composition technique to help you achieve impactful photos. Learn how to master Rule of Thirds and the Golden Ratio, basic composition techniques for more balanced and interesting shots. Or find out how Rule of Space helps to create stronger photos and more engaging photography.

Grab a copy of this infographic here. 

 

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