arranging the perfect shot

Improve your digital camera photo composition by properly framing your subject, choosing the right backgrounds, and more.

Position your subject

The way you fill your frame can be the difference between a "snapshot" and a truly moving photograph. Whether you're producing fine art, or preserving everyday moments, these guidelines will take your photos to the next level. Rule of thirds The perfect way to make photos more interesting is to imagine them divided into three sections horizontally and vertically (like a tic-tac-toe game). Positioning your subject at the intersection of those lines will break up symmetry and result in a more artful and compelling photo. Cropping You don't always get that perfect shot to begin with, so keeping the rule of thirds in mind, try cropping your photo after you've shot it-either in your camera, or using photo editing software like HP Photosmart Essential to achieve the same effect.

Choose the right backgrounds

Blurring the background focuses attention on your subject.

Simple backgrounds are best for subjects with busy patterns. If you don't have the luxury of the perfect background, you can adjust your depth of field to focus on objects closer to you, while blurring objects far away. b jectsub ed.us singchoo tiveCrea het yswa ghtri ot roundsbackg amefr nda uryo re.mo jectsub tionPosi rea uryo where.every jectsub rce:Sou Likewise, simple patterns look best set against a detailed background.

An intricate background works well for subjects with simple patterns.

Also, be sure the background of your photo doesn't interfere with your subject and take attention away. Objects such as poles or tree branches (a light in this case) can ruin your shot completely. Don't let background objects ruin a perfectly good photo.

Imply distance and dimension

In this photo, the fountain serves as a reference point for gauging distance.

A photo of a distant subject can seem static and one-dimensional. Including subjects nearer to you in your photos gives a sense of distance.

Choose an orientation

Horizontal orientation is not ideal for tall objects.

Your camera produces a rectangular image. This gives you two distinct orientations to work with-vertical or horizontal. Often, your subject will lend itself to one or the other. One sure way to find out is simply to take your photo both ways and decide which is best.

A vertical orientation is much more effective in this case.

Get close to your subject

Getting closer adds more detail and expression.

Close-up photography adds intimacy to your photos. It brings the viewer in and helps capture all the hidden details and moments you might not ever see.

Use a unique point of view

Instead of that head-on portrait, try an over-the-shoulder shot instead. This adds a candid quality to your photos.

Break the habit of shooting everything from eye level. Experiment with kneeling down to capture subjects from near the ground, or photographing subjects above you. A photo taken from below makes your subject more dominant.

Use your surroundings to frame your subject

This doorway serves as a great natural frame for this subject.

You can frame your subject in your photo by taking advantage of various naturally occurring physical structures or patterns. Doorways, windows, trees, bushes—almost anything can be used. Creative ways to frame your subject are everywhere.