Framing your photograph can turn what would otherwise be a boring picture into a visually pleasing one. Often times an element in the foreground can be used to create the frame. Some examples of framing include using an overhanging tree branch, a window frame, a door, arches, a fence, rows of trees, etc.
Frames serve to isolate the main subject of your photograph and create an interesting composition. When framing your photograph it is oftentimes the feeling of depth you’re after. At times you may decide to retain the detail of the frame (as in a wall, fence or branch), or let the frame go completely dark (as in a window frame).
When you are organizing a photo, look around the foreground (and sometimes, even middle or background) and find objects that can be used as a natural frame. At times you may need to physically back up a bit, kneel down for a more pleasant composition, or even zoom in to include your subject within the frame that you have chosen.
Framing can also be done after the fact by combining two or more pictures in an image editing software. Very dramatic effects can be accomplished this way and you are only limited by your imagination.
Please keep one thing in mind when using photo editing software; while there is nothing inherently wrong with combining different images to create a new photograph, please be very careful about employing artificial frames on identifiable scenes and landscapes.
An extreme example of this warning would be to frame the Statue of Liberty by the St. Louis Arch. The picture will not look right unless your purpose is to create dissonance within your viewers’ mind.
The next time you take your shot, look around and see if there is an object that you can use as a natural frame. Try to take a picture without the frame, and another one with the frame, and then compare the two. I would bet money that you will like the one with the frame better!
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