Photo Composition

Snapshot - a picture taken quickly, often spontaneous; trying to preserve a moment in time

Photograph - an image taken with care and thought

Rules of Composition

1. Rule of thirds - imaginary lines drawn dividing the frame of your camera into thirds, both horizontally and vertically; take image with focal point on the intersecting lines

2. Leading lines - use lines created within the foreground or background of the composition to lead the viewer's eye through the photo; can draw attention to one or more intended subjects

3. Point of view - change the way your subject is perceived by changing the camera position

4. Simplicity - keep your background simple and clear of clutter; a chaotic background will push the viewer away