Learning Photography – The Background
One of the most important elements of a photograph is often the one that is the most frequently overlooked. The background of a picture helps establish context for the image and its subjects, strengthens the narrative of the photograph, and can change the way a person feels about particular imagery. When shooting photos, it is important to understand the impact that the background can have, and how to use it to your advantage.
Double Check the Background
The next time you have that perfect photo lined up in your frame and you’re about to hit the shutter button, take a second to examine the background. Are there any objects or people in your picture that are distracting? Are there any noticeable or loud colors that bring your attention away from the subject? Is there a tree or light pole coming out of the person’s head? These are all things you should be watching out for when you shoot, and with a quick mental checklist they are all easily avoided.
Crop Inside Your Camera
Framing is an incredibly important part of the art of photography but we’re not talking about putting in 8×10 picture frames we’re talking about composition. Many bad backgrounds can be avoided altogether simply by framing the picture differently and having the subject take up most of the picture. Don’t forget that you really don’t need a background with every shot- a background is simply an option that’s available to enhance your image. Try to make this decision while shooting and not in the editing room; it’s always best to get it right in-camera.
Move
This may sound obvious, but if you find yourself working with a background that is ruining your shot, try changing the position of your subject or the angle of the shot. In just about every case, you can always find a way to avoid a bad background. Additionally, shifting the angle around a bit may give you new inspiration on how to make good use of the background, and will also help you create unique and interesting photographs.
Use What You Have
While studio photographers have long relied on backdrops to help enhance their portraits, there are plenty of incredible opportunities to be found right in the environment. Any time you’re taking picture of someone, take a look at the area around you to see if there is anything that will help to enhance the picture. For example, don’t include a swing set in the background unless you’re going to have your subject sitting in it? Think of the background as another part of your photograph than you can change whenever needed.
Depth of Field
When it comes to your background, make sure to be selective of something that will look good. You can always play around with your picture’s depth of field by changing the shutter speed so always feel free to make changes that you feel will improve the quality of your picture. Since people often interpret depth of field differently, it’s always best to try to think of different ways to use it to enhance your image. And, often times the types of frames you use (like leather picture frames vs ornate) to display your image can also make a big difference in how your image is perceived.
Many photographers spend so much time worrying about capturing their subjects that they completely overlook the background. If you use backgrounds properly they can make a shot look great, while ignoring a background can make a bad shot even worse.. At the end of the day, every single element in a photograph is the responsibility of the photographer. If the background is detracting from the image, it is up to you to either find a way to make it work or find a way to get rid of it. Using backgrounds properly can be tricky, but before long you’ll soon start using them effectively without even thinking.
November 22, 2010
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Posted by Jam Man
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