Frames can be used to highlight architectural subjects.
Beautiful buildings and structures are a great feature of cities and towns. Many of them have interesting pillars or arches.
It is stunning because the frame directs the viewers’ attention to the main subject and provides context and contrast. You can use the frame to provide scale or even a fun false sense scale where the frame appears larger than the subject.
When you see a building that you like, start looking for frames. You don’t have to frame a building within another. It is possible to frame a building within or capture trees, bridges and car windows have framed.
Balance can be achieved by using symmetry.
Many travel photography composition techniques can be used to shoot familiar subjects in various ways. One of my favourite techniques is symmetry. This involves finding a point of reflection across the composition and reflecting half of it.
While symmetry can be used for many travel-related topics, there are reflective surfaces all over. However, I recommend that you search for structures close to water. Although this might be a lovely building that overlooks a pond, it can also create incredible results using puddles and car hood reflections.
To draw the viewer in, look for leading lines.
Leading lines guide the eye across the frame. They can move horizontally, diagonally, or vertically. A composition’s dynamic can also be enhanced by adding leading lines.
For a spectacular view, get up high.
Every travel photographer should use this tip at least once during their trip.
Shoot down from high.
It is easy to become obsessed with the subject matter in front of us, but if we can look beyond the landscape or city, there are many interesting elements to be found: lakes that wind their way to the sea, building spires and so on.
Travel landscapes can be mapped using the rule of three.
The rule to thirds is an important compositional guideline. But have you tried it in your photos? Tried it?
If you have a dramatic sky with interesting cloud patterns, you can place the horizon in the third position. This will highlight the sky and diminish the foreground. This can be stunning, especially if the sky is dark and moody or when there is a beautiful sunset.
Place your subject in the centre of the composition.
In the previous section, I talked about the importance of placing key elements at least a third of how deep into the frame. Sometimes it’s okay to break the rules. One of the best ways to create striking and unique travel compositions is to place your subject in the centre of the frame.
The viewer will instantly be drawn to a subject if placed in the centre of the image. The lack of distractions will help the viewer immediately grasp the theme and story behind the image.
Add an intriguing foreground element.
Foreground elements look fantastic in travel photos, especially when used with wide-angle lenses.
Why? They add depth to the scene. They allow the viewer to see the entire area below the photographer’s feet.
…before taking the viewer to the distant ocean, city or mountains.
Use patterns and shapes
There are many shapes and patterns, so it is easy to make travel images that have more impact by identifying these features.
This is about being more abstract in your travel compositions. Do not just photograph your subject. Instead, search for interesting patterns and shapes that make up your subject. Then, compose with these in mind.
Final words: Travel photography composition tips
Your final image will be greatly affected by composing your travel photos. Your shots will immediately improve if you use the tips above, such as framing your subject and finding leading lines.
Have fun and explore all of your compositional possibilities!
