Photography tip: Compositional framing

Regardless of where you travel to, if you have a camera in hand there will usually be an interesting landmark or building to photograph. As you already know, the subject matter that is in front of you has already been photographed ad nauseam. To set your photo apart from all the millions of other similar images, try a simple framing technique where the main subject is encased within a secondary point of interest. In the case of this image, my goal was to photograph the Budapest parliament building, but to have the image framed by a secondary subject, the famous Buda Castle.

There are many examples of this technique throughout the history of photography, and the one that stood out for me the most was a snapshot that an acquaintance took of the Taj Mahal in India. There are countless Taj Mahal photographs in existence, but this one was framed within a minaret shaped archway or gate, and the effect was very dramatic.

If you are a nature photographer, you no doubt have already employed framing devices in your images. An often-used example is autumn tree branches surrounding your main subject. Outdoor portrait photographers often use similar techniques to add drama to their images.

Experiment with different angles, and try shooting your main subject through another subject. It may just be the extra touch that takes an ordinary photo to something mysterious and compelling.

Thanks to professional photographer Mark Hemmings (www.markhemmings.com) for writing this photo tip.