By : Nikon School Blog | 11 Nov, 2014 |
One of the most effective ways of making strong compositions is to include human elements in your frame. Much of what we shoot is somehow related to human life.
A frame devoid of any human element usually looks lifeless. It's psychological. In a vast, barren landscape, you feel good if you see anyone, even at a distance. Perhaps the same applies to us when we see images of landscapes.
Often we can't judge how vast a landscape or a building is when it is devoid of any life. A human subject placed at the right place in the frame suggests scale of the scene. Placing the subject too close to the camera makes it appear too large, while placing it too far may make it almost invisible. The right spot is where the subject is visible, yet small enough to suggest the vastness of the scene.
Timing the shot is also crucial, more so at tourist places. Shoot too fast and you may have some distractions in the frame, like other groups of tourists, or other photographers. Wait too long and the subject may move away, or other people may get in the frame. The aim is to isolate the subject with the overall scene.
Not any human subject is an effective human element. Ideally the human element should blend with the scene. Local people in local attires are most effective. However, variations can always be tried. An interesting tourist who contrasts the ambience can also make a good composition.
Isolating the human element is crucial to get the right effect
While shooting at any place, keep an eye on the people around you. If you find someone interesting then with some patience you will surely get the compositions you are looking for.