Learn Digital Photography – A Good Photo is Knowing Where to Stand
Ansel Adams, one of the world’s greatest photographers, said, “A good photo is knowing where to stand.” This sums up photography as half the battle is won when you know the best vantage point for a great photo. Finding that vantage point is key to taking your photos from average to great. Let’s see why.
Understanding this fundamental of photography will dramatically increase the quality and composition of your images. When you think about it, the idea is so simple. Once you know where to stand or the best positions in relation to your subject, the rest is much easier.
So what is the best position when photographing a subject? I don’t know. Because, I don’t know what or where your topic is. I can’t give you an answer as each scene is unique. What I can give you are some keys to find that best position.
1. Explore your options
Don’t stay in the scene or in front of your subject. Explore a variety of viewpoints by walking around and looking at your subject from as many positions as possible. Do not take any photos at this point, as they will distract you from your task. You want to allow yourself to become part of the environment and see all the elements that are potentially part of your final image.
2. Take your time
The key to deciding what your final point of view will be is to take your time. We are so quick to point and shoot in our new digital world that the element of time is often left out of photography. Time is your best friend in any photo session. It takes time to walk and make the decision. Linked to this is thinking. Think carefully about what your final image will look like, as you’ll need to work on this before you press the shutter.
3. Explore the alternatives
Most of us will start with the normal or traditional point of view, standing right in front of the subject and shooting. Now, I am not saying that the traditional perspective is not the best. What I’m saying is, before you go this route, try the more radical perspectives, like climbing up high or lying down for a completely different vantage point. Get really close, hold the camera above your head, at an incredible angle, or hold it by your ankles. This may sound crazy, but you have a better chance of finding the best vantage point possible.
4. The elements
A subject does not remain isolated from its surroundings against a white background, or at least very rarely. He is in relation to all the other elements in the scene and you must consider each of them when finding the perfect position for his image. As you move through the subject, the elements change in relation to the subject. The background moves and the subject contrasts differently with the new background. Suddenly there are distractions and disorder. Move the other way, and the lessons of clutter and the potential for a great picture increase. Using your feet is key to finding the best position.
Continually challenging yourself to find a better vantage point should be the key to all your photography. Each scene or situation is different from the rest and you will have to find the best position each time. There is no formula or standard when it comes to finding the best vantage point and there is not always time. What you need to consolidate in your mind is that every time you take an image be mindful, take your time and think. And above all, be prepared to experiment and practice.