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Frame Your Picture
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The use of a frame can turn an otherwise plain picture into a pleasing one. Usually a foreground element is used to create the frame. Examples are an overhanging tree branch, a window frame, a door, arches, a fence, rows of trees, etc.
Generally frames are used to isolate the main subject of your photograph and create a visually interesting composition. The idea behind framing your photograph is to give your picture depth. There will be times you may choose to keep the detail of the frame (as in a wall, fence or branch), or you may choose to 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.
A word of caution is necessary here, however. While there is nothing wrong with combining different images to create a separate one, please be very careful about employing artificial frames on identifiable scenes and landscapes.
As an extreme example, don't frame the Statue of Liberty by the St. Louis Arch. Unless your purpose is to create dissonance within your viewers' minds, that picture will just look strange.
So, the next time you are ready to take your shot, look around and see if there is an object nearby that you can use as a natural frame. I recommend that you try to take a picture without the frame, and another one with the frame, and then compare the two. Chances are, you will like the one with the frame better!
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Interested in find out more about Editing Digital Photographs? Don't trust anybody's advice until you have read This Free Report
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