Photography Tutorial - Basics of Composition

Summary

In this video, Jared Polin from froknowsphoto.com discusses the art of composition using a Rebel T3i camera and a 16-35mm lens. He emphasizes the importance of experimenting with different angles and focal lengths, even with a basic kit lens, to improve one's composition skills. Using Kermit the Frog as a subject, he demonstrates how adjusting the camera angle and subject placement can significantly impact the composition and visual appeal of a photo.

Takeaways

• 📸 **Use of Canon Camera**: The speaker uses a Canon Rebel T3i camera for the demonstration.
• 🔍 **Lens Selection**: A 16-35mm f/2.8 lens is used, but the focus is on shooting between 18-35mm at f/3.5 to mimic common kit lenses.
• 🐸 **Subject Matter**: Kermit the Frog, an inanimate object, is used as a subject to practice composition.
• 👀 **Composition Focus**: The main theme is learning and improving photographic composition through experimentation.
• 🤔 **Experimentation**: Different angles and compositions are tried to find the best image, emphasizing the importance of trying out various setups.
• 👶 **Subject's Perspective**: It's recommended to get down to the subject's level, especially when photographing children.
• 📐 **Rule of Thirds**: The speaker discusses the rule of thirds, showing how off-center positioning can create a stronger composition.
• 🌳 **Background Awareness**: The importance of being aware of the background and potential distractions is highlighted.
• 📱 **Camera as a Tool**: The camera is used not just to capture the subject but also to analyze the frame and composition.
• 🔄 **Adjust and Move**: The speaker emphasizes moving around and adjusting the camera to find the best composition rather than moving the subject.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is photography composition.

Which camera and lens setup does Jared Polin use in the video?

Jared Polin uses a Canon Rebel T3i with a 16-35mm f/2.8 lens, but he limits himself to shooting at 18-35mm and at apertures no lower than f/3.5 to keep it realistic for beginners.

Why does Jared choose Kermit the Frog as his subject?

Jared chooses Kermit the Frog as his subject because he is an inanimate object, which allows him to demonstrate composition techniques without the complexity of a moving subject.

What is the significance of the Kermit the Frog cutout used in the video?

The Kermit the Frog cutout is significant because it was made by Jared's mom in 1983 and has been his doorstop since then, adding a personal touch to the demonstration.

How does Jared suggest improving composition when photographing a child or a similar subject?

Jared suggests getting down to the subject's level to improve composition, as it provides a more natural perspective.

What is the importance of focusing on the subject's eye in photography?

Focusing on the subject's eye is important because it helps to draw attention to the subject and can make the image more engaging.

How does Jared demonstrate the effect of different angles on composition?

Jared demonstrates the effect of different angles by taking pictures from various heights and perspectives, showing how each change affects the composition.

What is the purpose of moving the subject off-center in a composition?

Moving the subject off-center can create a more dynamic and interesting composition by using the rule of thirds and drawing the viewer's eye to the subject in a more engaging way.

Why does Jared avoid having distracting elements in the background?

Jared avoids distracting elements in the background to keep the focus on the subject and to ensure that the background complements rather than detracts from the main subject.

What is the role of the photographer in controlling the composition?

The photographer plays a crucial role in controlling the composition by moving themselves, changing angles, and adjusting the framing to create the desired visual effect.

How does Jared emphasize the importance of seeing what's going on in the frame?

Jared emphasizes the importance of seeing what's going on in the frame by constantly checking the borders and background for distractions and adjusting the composition accordingly.