Written by Zachery Eng (All photos taken by yours truly)
Photography: a mystical and wonderful ability to capture and save any moment forever! It is one of the things in life I love most. It captures moments, has the ability to create varied emotions, and ultimately allows me to escape the limitations of reality through its ability to convey surreal imagery. Many people believe in order to take an amazing photograph you need an expensive DSLR camera, but that is not the case. All you need a bit of creativity, a dash of inspiration, and a lot of passion! As long as you have a camera in hand, anyone has the ability to create a superb photo. Here are a few tips and tricks that I use to improve my shots!
RULE OF THIRDS
In photography, there is a rule called “rule of thirds.” Through your camera viewfinder, picture your frame divided into 9 equal sections, divided by 2 vertical lines and 2 horizontally lines. The rule states that you should place important elements of your composition on the intersection of the segmenting strokes. Whether it be on only 1 intersection, or all 4. This will create more visual interest in your photographs!
Model: Mirabelle Wang
FRAMING
By placing objects around the edge of the composition/image, you help to isolate the main focus of the image from outer distraction. Thus resulting in a more focused image which will draw the viewer’s attention.
Model: Kristine Feliciano
LEADING LINES
Using elements in the environment to help draw the viewer’s attention to a specific part of the frame, whether it be a person or an object.
Model: Rachel Cheng
SYMMETRY
Symmetry can make for eye-catching compositions! Another great thing to do is to break the symmetry in some way, introducing tension within the composition.
Model: Anonymous
VIEWPOINT
Different viewpoints emit different feelings within a composition. Rather than just shooting from eye level, consider shooting from different heights and distances: from above, below, the side, back, front, etc. While taking photographs with me, there is a great chance you’ll find me on the floor at least once or twice (or multiple of times).
Model: Pedestrian
ALSO…
A great way to improve your photography and to gain inspiration is to join photo walks — a communal activity of camera enthusiasts who gather to take photos. I have personally joined multiple of walks, meeting amazing people and learning new styles of photography.
A great photograph does not depend on the camera you use or have, it is all about the creativity and the thought put in behind it. Do not be afraid to make mistakes, take lots of photos, and enjoy the process.