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.
A frame serves to isolate your main subject and create an interesting composition. Oftentimes, it’s the feeling of depth you’re after. You may choose 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).
When you are composing a shot, keep your eyes open to foreground (and sometimes, even middle or background) objects that can be used as a natural frame. You may need to physically back up a bit, kneel down for a more pleasant composition, or zoom in to include your subject within your chosen frame.
You can also add a frame to your photograph once taken also. Using image editing software, you can combine elements of two or more photographs into one, creating striking results.
Be careful when adding a frame through digital editing though. While you can certainly combine features of different images together, be cautious about adding artificial frames on familiar scenes and landscapes.
As an extreme example, don’t frame the Washington Monument with the Great Wall of China. Unless your goal is to create dissonance within your viewers’ minds, a picture with an intense difference will only come across as 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!
