9 rules for beginner photographers and 1 tip
Steve McCurry is the author of a photograph that’s sometimes compared to Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa. It’s the famous "Afghan Girl" photo taken in 1985. Not too long ago, the Cooperative of Photography (COOPH) released a video with several rules for photography students. The video is based on the works of Steve McCurry, who is already a recognized master and one of the most famous photographers in the world today.
1. Rule of thirds
Visual division of the image into nine equal parts by vertical and horizontal lines. The most important subject of the frame is placed at the intersection of these lines or along them. This promotes deep visual perception.
2. Rule of leading lines
A photograph will fascinate the viewer with its three-dimensional depth if the eye is focused along the direction of the lines. They join at one specific point and are called natural leading lines.
3. Rule of diagonals
Diagonal lines add dynamism and movement to the frame. Don’t be afraid to introduce them into the structure of a photograph. They enhance the sense of perspective. Composition can lead the eye through the entire photo.
4. Rule of natural frames
Natural frames will help to make the frame perfect in composition. This term can refer to windows, doors, portholes and various other objects.
5. Ratio rule
The photograph looks best if the significant details within the frame are in contrast with the background. At the same time, the background should not distract the viewer from the main subject of photograph, if it is not part of the storyline.
6. Frame filling rule
A stunning artistic effect can be achieved with close-up shots. Keeping all the details visible is a way to hold the viewer’s attention. Regardless of whether the background is a part of the narrative in the photo, you should always keep it in mind.
7. Eyes on the center line rule
If you want to make your subject “look” from a photograph, their eyes should gaze straight from the very center of the photo. And in order to achieve that Mona Lisa effect, when the person in the portrait follows the observer passing by, one of the eyes needs to be right in the center of the frame or along the center line. This is the rule we use when creating a portrait on canvas.
8. Rule of patterns and repetitions
Contrasting patterns in the photo look striking. Repetitions are pleasing to the human eye, they symbolize order in the world.
9. Rule of symmetry
The rule of symmetry in the frame helps with the perception of the concept of perfection, or on the contrary, awkwardness. People usually have a special preference for symmetry in their environment.
10. A rule to break all the rules
Individuality can’t flourish under the constraint of rules, but they sometimes provide a good incentive to find your own unique style. Mesmerizing photographs can be created by a photographer who breaks the basic rules, but only if they do it consciously.
I hope these tips will help you create beautiful photos, and we will be happy to print them on canvas or photo paper and frame them beautifully.
