Frame of Mind: Exploring the Composition Technique of Framing in Photography
In a previous post, I talked about the element of light as an essential tool in photography. This week I want to discuss another important element, and that is the concept of framing.
Framing serves several functions in a photograph, and when used creatively, can greatly enhance the quality, beauty and visual interest of a photograph. It is most often used to draw attention to the subject of the photograph, and to capture a moment in action. For instance, picture a scene of a bride getting ready for her big day. She is in a room filled with people - bridesmaids, family members, hair and make-up artists. A photograph taken from within the room might appear cluttered and chaotic. Now picture the same scene from three feet back, taken through the frame of a door. Using the doorway as a frame for the scene creates a much more beautiful photograph with a soft, romantic edge and draws attention to the action in the room. It also creates depth and layers (foreground, subject and background) to the image, a subject that I will discuss in a future post.
As a wedding photographer with years of experience I know intuitively what to look for when framing a photograph, and am constantly alert to anticipate special moments as they occur. I know to always have an eye on the door to the room because at any moment, the bride’s father or a relative might suddenly enter and see the bride in her gown for the first time. Another area in a room that I often use to frame a subject is a window. Photographing a bride or her dress against a window creates an ethereal frame of light around the subject and softens the look.
Additionally, creative framing can offer a hint of the environment - the bride leaning forward and stepping into the door frame of a vintage car, for example. Only a suggestion of the car is needed, just an open car door to frame the bride and give context to the photograph. The location of a wedding can also be used to frame a scene and be a part of the narrative. I photograph a lot of New York City weddings, and the location is an important part of the story, so I tend to use wide angle lens to draw in the environment. Some environments can be challenging to shoot if they are not visually appealing. Ever been pleased with yourself for taking a great picture, only to find on closer inspection a large and unsightly advertisement in the background? As photographers we are often stuck with a specific location or environment and have to work with what is there. The good news is that strategically choosing an object or area to frame the foreground can eliminate clutter, traffic, or billboards in the background by blocking them from view. In other cases, shooting a couple from a distance and using a long lens can be a good way to create a crisp, clear image of them while giving a busy background a softer, out-of-focus glow. More to come on lenses as well. Stay tuned - Christian Oth
I've been following your blog for sometime now, and while I enjoy the photographs you post, I really enjoy reading your philosophy towards photography. As a videographer, I know "anticipation" is the key to my success, so it's nice to read the following. "I know to always have an eye on the door to the room because at any moment, the bride’s father or a relative might suddenly enter and see the bride in her gown for the first time."
And you're right, that initial moment where both the bride and her father get emotional and show their true happiness and joy, is a special moment.
I certainly look forward to reading more.
Amazing post- love the idea of using actual objects o frame the picture. And, the pictures, just so beautiful!
I recently bought a new camera and have been struggling with trying not to be just another hipster with a big lense. The difference between a beautiful photograph and something that comes across as "artsy" are the subtleties you outline above. So here I go, out in the world, with my "framing" homework... Thank you so much for the tips and inspiration!
As as bride who will be wed soon in San Francisco, I appreciate the concept of framing in photographs. Framing allows for a photograph to appear as if it is a dramatic page out of a storybook. My hope is that long after our wedding day, our photographs will serve as a special glimpse of our day.
What a gift to be able to capture the sentiments of joy, laughter and love and be so aware of your surroundings as to avoid the distractions of the physical elements that might be visually unappealing- that might take away from capturing the emotions of a wedding day scene. Great post! Eye opening as to how much talent is needed in order to truly freeze this special day in time.