Three Ways of Framing a Photograph
Which one should you choose to create the best impression for your viewers?
Natural Framing
Natural framing involves using elements that are already present in the scene to create a frame around the subject. This technique draws the viewer’s eye towards the subject, adding depth and interest to the photograph.
Some well-known street photographs often feature natural frames created by architectural elements such as windows, doors, and staircases.
The photograph below uses the entrance of a Japanese bookstore as a natural framing.
Forced Framing
Forced framing, on the other hand, involves the intentional placement of objects within the frame to create a frame around the subject.
This technique requires the photographer to manipulate the scene and add elements to create the frame. The objects used can be anything that helps to create a frame around the subject, such as hands, arms, legs, or even objects.
Layered Framing
This technique involves composing the photograph with multiple elements in the foreground, middle ground, and background to create a sense of depth and three-dimensionality.
The elements used in layered framing can be anything from natural objects such as trees and rocks to man-made objects such as buildings and structures.
By positioning these elements at different depths within the frame, the photographer can create a layered effect that draws the viewer’s eye deeper into the photograph.
Layered framing is particularly effective when the elements in the foreground are slightly blurred, and the elements in the middle ground are in focus .
In conclusion, framing is an essential part of photography that can add depth, interest, and context to your photographs. Natural framing, forced framing, and layered framing are just a few of the techniques that you can use to enhance your images.
