Frame Your Picture
Incorporating a frame into your photo can transform a plain picture into an amazing one. Typically a foreground element is used to create the frame. Some frame elements could be a window frame, arches, a door, rows of trees, a fence, an overhanging tree branch and so on
The goal in using a frame in your photo is to isolate the main subject and construct an appealing composition within your photo. Many times it is used to create a feeling of depth. You may decide to keep the detail of the frame (as in a wall, fence or branch), or let the frame go completely dark (as in a window frame).
Look for objects that can be used as a natural frame in the forefront (and even in the middle or background) when you are composing a shot. Take in all aspects of what is available in the environment of your subject. You might need to change your viewpoint or angle to include your subject into a chosen frame.
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.
Be cautious though when doing this. While there is nothing wrong with incorporating certain aspects of different pictures into one, be careful about utilizing artificial frames on familiar landscapes and scenes.
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, before you take that shot next time, look around and see if there is an object that you can use as a natural frame. Take a picture without the frame, and another one with the frame, and compare. Betcha, you’ll like the one with the frame better!
