Framing is a technique that helps drawing attention to the subject in Photography. Photographers use framing by blocking other parts of the photo. But the tricky question is how can you do that while shooting? Well, in this guide, we will share the most amazing techniques for framing. Read the full article to learn the techniques. But before starting, let’s know the importance of framing.
Why Framing Is Important in Photography?
Composition and lighting are the most crucial thing in photography. To make your photo stand out you need the right perspective. When you need a different perspective, you need to apply framing in photos. In a word, framing is necessary when you want to surround the photo with different elements. This way the photos can stand out and grab the viewer’s attention. There are various options for you to use framing. Achieving great fame to the photos is not easy. Sometimes you can get a great frame by luck. But you need to use your extreme level of creativity to gain a great frame. Here are some great techniques for you.
Use Reflections for Framing
For perfect framing, window reflections are great. You can use window reflections in any kind of photography you want. In the case of portrait photography, position your model behind a window. Tell her to stand behind a window and focus on one part of her body.
Change your perspectives for shooting from different angles. Find the best angles to get the most out of reflections. Keep in mind that the reflection has to be neutral in color.
Use Natural Symmetry for Framing
Composing your shots and symmetry works proportionally. Especially if you are shooting in an atmospheric environment. Without too much movement, go a few steps back from your model. In this case, the basic symmetry method can help you a lot. You don’t have to set up a studio for that. Without a studio, you can take symmetrical props or backgrounds. Find symmetrical shapes in the environment. You can use roads, skyscrapers, bridges, or water reflections as the symmetrical shape.
Then placing the subject in the middle of these shapes will help take amazing shots.
Bring out Details by Shooting Through Objects
You can bring a more interesting look to your photo by placing elements in the foreground.
In this case, use a large aperture for creating a soft environment. Focus the subject and cover its surroundings with an appealing blur.
You can use a smaller aperture here to bring more details.
It would be better if you use a combination of simple and vibrant objects.
Use Doors and Windows as a Frame
Using doors, windows or an actual frame is the most unique framing technique. You can keep these elements in both foreground and background. But keeping the subject in front gets you amazing results. At different campaigns or programs, you can use photo booth frames too.
Frame the Subjects by Themselves
It is possible to use the subjects as frames. Many models and professional portrait photographers use this technique.
Tell the model to place her hands in a way that makes a frame around her face. This is a unique way of creating a natural frame.
Use Bokeh for Framing
Another amazing way of making a frame is by creating Bokeh. You can create bokeh in many ways. Use lights, leaves, or a glass. With these elements, you can create a soft and artistic frame.
There is some key factor you should remember when creating a Bokeh. These factors control the bokeh’s intensity and quality. Make sure you are applying the below factors properly when creating a frame.
- The wide aperture and narrow depth of field
- Maintain distance between subject and background.
- Try to get closer to the subject
- Try to use a longer focal length
- Expose your subject properly
Use Light and Shadows for Framing
The only art of photography is capturing the light. One of the best ways of highlighting the elements is by applying proper lighting techniques. With the proper composition of light and shadows, you can create an infinite number of amazing frames.
Add Context to the Photo
One of the most important things about the frame is that you can add context to the photo. You need to make storytelling with the information you have. Make sure your audience gets an understanding of where you took the photo and how you captured it. It is a great way to add a storytelling element to the picture.
Another trick is finding a vantage point that can help you to shoot through the frame. You should also try to send a message to the audience about the location.
Leading Lines and the Rule of Thirds
These two photography techniques are the most important fact when it comes to creating a frame. With the leading lines technique, you can attract the viewer’s focus on the essential elements. You can use paths, walls, or any pattern to apply leading lines. Look at the photo below for a better understanding of leading lines. Make frames with the leading lines to bring the most aesthetic look to the photo.
Another technique is applying the rule of thirds. Rule of thirds allows you to divide the frame into nine equal rectangles. For a perfect shot, you have to place your subject on the intersecting points of the rectangles. Every photographer has a natural tendency to keep the subject in the middle. But the rule of thirds suggests keeping the subject on the lines or on the intersecting points. When viewers look at a picture, they focus on the side of the frame. So, placing the subject off-center using the rule of thirds will get you more attractive shots.
Conclusion
Frames in photography help to create balance in the elements of a photo. There are many techniques for making frames. By practicing those in your photography, you can improve your shots. Apply these seven techniques to create eye-catching frames in your photo shooting.
For a perfect photo composition, the photo must have these 6 elements in it. Which is line, shape, form, texture, pattern, and color.