LifeStyle : Nine rules for taking the perfect photograph

There’s no easy way to produce a photographic masterpiece. However, there are certain rules which can bring you closer to one. Steve McCurry, an acknowledged genius behind the lens who has worked for National Geographic and who took the famous ’Afghan girl’ photo, knows them all. Using examples of his own work, he demonstrates that, provided you stick to the fundamental principles of composition, you can take a beautiful shot easily enough.

Life Beauty Place publishes 9 pieces of his advice to help you significantly improve your camera skills.

The rule of thirds

Place important parts of the shot along lines, and the most important parts at the points                                                         where these lines intersect. 

Leading lines

                Use the natural lines available in the shot to focus the attention of the viewer.

Diagonal lines

                       Correctly chosen diagonal lines give dynamism to the picture.

Framing

          Make use of natural frames and borders in the shot, such as windows and doors.

Figures vs. background

                 Find the contrast between the object of the photo and the background.

Fill the frame

                            Get up close to the person you’re taking a shot of.

Dominant eyes

Place the right or left eye at the centre of the composition. This gives the impression that                                               the subject’s eyes are following you.

Patterns and repetition

It’s certainly pleasant to observe patterns in a photo. But it’s even better if patterns are                                   interrupted — this gives some contrast to the shot.

Symmetry

                      The harmony between two halves is always pleasing to the eye.

Photo credit: Steve McCurry