What is composition? The word means, the act of combining parts or elements to form a whole. So, in photography, the elements or parts are the subjects you see through the viewfinder or on the LCD screen of your camera. Another definition of composition is, something that is the result of creative effort. This definition lends itself quite well to the creativity available in photography. Elements of a camera bag include protective rainflaps, lens cradle, shoulder straps, and deep mesh pockets, as example.

Mastering photography composition is a necessary skill if you want to graduate from just taking ordinary pictures to taking impressive, quality photographs. The first common mistake most people make is taking the picture with their eye, not the camera. You’re seeing what you’re intending to have as the focus of your photograph, but the camera is going to take the picture, including everything within the frame. You need to train yourself to see as your camera sees; the main subject of the photograph and everything surrounding it.

Once you condition yourself to see the entire picture, you can change the background and foreground by changing the angle of the shot. That’s the key to fine tuning the photograph’s composition, the angle. You may want to shoot the picture from up above the subject, or you may want to try shooting it from down below. Try looking at it from several different vantage points and take a few different shots to see which one you like the best. Remember to anticipate. Always pack your camera bag with extras lenses that you may need to get the best shot.

Simplicity in a photograph allows the beauty and strength of the actual subject to be the focus of the image, not distracted by the background, unless that’s what you’ve intended. An important rule of composition is the Rule of Thirds. Most professional photographers use this technique, since it adds interest and depth to a photograph. The rule of thirds calls for the photographer to mentally divide the photograph into thirds, both vertically and horizontally. Then focus the main subject of the picture at the intersections of those lines.

Generally, it’s best to have the subject fill the frame, unless the background is related to the subject. If it doesn’t, get as close as you can or zoom in to get the closest shot possible. Hold the camera both ways to see how the picture looks best. Try taking the shot diagonally for a very powerful, impressive image. Pay close attention to the small details, they can make or break the photograph.

But, don’t be afraid to break some of the “rules” and let your creative juices flow. After all, you really have nothing to loose and everything to gain. Experimenting is how you’ll get some of your best pictures. But, practice and become comfortable with and knowledgeable of the basics first. Pack your camera bag with all your best equipment and go out and have fun with learning how to be the best at photographic composition.

About the Author

Suzanne VanDeGrift has developed this article for M-ROCK.COM, manufacturer of exceptional quality camera bagscomplimented by professional good looks.