7 better ways to compose your photos (better than the rule of thirds)

Let’s get straight to it. To me, composition isn't something you strictly learn—it's something you absorb. Whether you're diving into street photography or crafting a portrait, the process shouldn’t be a mathematical exercise. Instead, it should come from within, enhancing your photos naturally rather than inflating your ego through meticulously aligned grids. In most cases, composition should be about instinct, not just thought. Sure, it can be taught, but fundamentally, it needs to be instinctive.

Forget strict rules. Photography composition is about feeling your way through a scene, positioning elements harmoniously within the frame. Just like composing a song, where notes and chords create harmony, the same applies to visual art. Guidelines, like the rule of thirds, help place your subject at intersection points, but you’re not confined to one method. Mixing techniques—like negative space, the golden ratio, and the rule of thirds—adds layers and depth, creating dynamic and engaging images.

One of my favorite techniques is centering the eye. Placing the subject's eye along the central line of the frame creates a strong focal point, drawing the viewer’s attention naturally. This method is especially effective in portraits, emphasizing emotion and expression. For instance, in one of my portraits, I aimed to evoke deep emotion, connecting the viewer on a personal level. However, this technique can also serve purely aesthetic purposes, enhancing visual balance and harmony depending on the desired effect.

Composing with colors isn't always straightforward; it's often situational. For example, you might find a palette of warm tones contrasted by blue lines and jackets. Or, a yellow triangle created by a train contrasted with bluish shadows. Using colors in composition can be cool, fun, and rewarding, but it largely depends on your environment and shooting style.

Negative space in photography refers to the empty area around the main subject. It highlights the subject, adds balance, and creates a focused image by removing unnecessary elements. This minimalist approach emphasizes the subject, proving that less is more. Keeping the background simple without distractions ensures that the subject stands out. Black and white photography can simplify this process, but it's not mandatory as long as the subject is prominent.

Pattern composition involves using repeating elements like shapes, colors, or lines. Patterns are everywhere, and human eyes naturally love them. Symmetry and patterns draw attention and create visual interest, making them a powerful compositional tool.

Another engaging technique is incorporating abstract elements into your composition. Shapes, colors, textures, or patterns inject creativity and intrigue, challenging the viewer to interpret the image. These elements can transform a simple scene into something compelling, drawing attention and creating balance.

Layering and framing share similarities in adding depth and context. Layering uses elements at different distances from the camera to create dimension, guiding the viewer’s eye through the scene. Personally, I love using reflections for layering as they enhance depth and complexity. Framing involves encasing your subject through shapes created by windows, plants, or other objects, directing attention and adding context.

In summary, composition is about intuition and creativity. By blending various techniques like negative space, pattern composition, and layering, you can create engaging, well-composed images that captivate viewers. Remember, the goal is to enhance your photos naturally, making the process both enjoyable and instinctive.