18 Tips to INSTANTLY Improve Your Photos and Videos

Composition is one of the most overlooked aspects of creating stunning photos and videos. You might not consciously notice it when it’s done well, but when it’s missing, the results are glaringly obvious. Even with perfect settings for exposure, focus, and white balance, poor composition can ruin your shots.

In this guide, I’ll share 18 composition techniques to help you create more cinematic and visually compelling images, whether you’re shooting photos or videos. While these rules are rooted in photography and traditional art, they apply beautifully to video as well. Remember, these are not strict rules—think of them as creative suggestions to experiment with.

1. Rule of Thirds

Divide your frame into nine equal parts using two horizontal and two vertical lines. Place your subject along these lines or at their intersections to create a more visually interesting and balanced shot. This technique works wonders for framing subjects and ensuring your shots don’t feel static.

2. Frame Within a Frame

Use natural or architectural elements like doorways, windows, or arches to frame your subject within the larger frame. This technique draws the viewer’s attention directly to your subject and adds depth to your image.

3. Symmetry

Create balance and harmony by centering your subject so that each half of the frame mirrors the other. Symmetry is highly satisfying to the eye and is often used in the works of directors like Wes Anderson.

4. Leading Lines

Incorporate lines that guide the viewer’s eye to your subject. Roads, bridges, railings, and pathways are common examples. Leading lines not only emphasize your subject but also create a sense of depth and dimension.

5. Layers and Depth

Add depth to your images by incorporating elements in the foreground, middle ground, and background. This technique creates a three-dimensional feel, drawing the viewer into the scene.

6. Diagonal Lines

Introduce energy and movement into your shots by using diagonal lines. These lines add dynamism and a sense of motion, even in still images, and can overlap with leading lines for added effect.

7. Patterns

Capture repeated shapes, colors, or textures to create order and rhythm in your frame. Patterns found in nature or architecture are particularly satisfying and visually striking.

8. Breaking the Pattern

Disrupt a repeating pattern by introducing an element that stands out. For example, a single red object among a sea of green creates visual interest and grabs attention.

9. Filling the Frame

Fill the entire frame with your subject to eliminate distractions and create a dramatic, impactful image. This technique works particularly well for close-ups and portraits.

10. Rule of Odds

Include an odd number of subjects in your frame for a more balanced and pleasing composition. Groups of three, five, or seven subjects often feel more natural than even numbers.

11. Simplicity

Simplify your frame by removing unnecessary elements. Minimalist compositions allow your subject to stand out without distractions, keeping the viewer focused on what matters most.

12. Negative Space

Leave empty space around your subject to create balance and emphasize their presence. Negative space is particularly effective for conveying mood and simplicity.

13. Balance

Achieve balance in your frame by distributing visual weight evenly. This can be symmetrical, where both sides mirror each other, or asymmetrical, where different elements create a stable yet dynamic composition.

14. Golden Ratio

Use the mathematical golden ratio to position your subject in a way that feels natural and balanced. The spiral and intersecting lines of the golden ratio grid can guide you in arranging elements harmoniously.

15. Golden Triangles

Similar to the golden ratio, this technique involves dividing your frame into triangles. Place key elements along the triangle lines or at their intersection points for a unique and pleasing composition.

16. Parallel Lines

Use parallel lines, such as rows of chairs, steps, or fences, to add texture, stability, and depth to your shot. These lines emphasize order and create a sense of visual rhythm.

17. Curved Lines

Introduce curved lines, like winding roads or flowing rivers, to add motion and lead the viewer’s eye through the frame. Curves are more dynamic and visually engaging than straight lines.

18. Angles

Change your camera angle to emphasize or de-emphasize your subject. Shooting upward can make your subject appear powerful and imposing, while shooting downward can make them seem smaller and more vulnerable.

Final Thoughts

Mastering these composition techniques takes practice, but they’re guaranteed to elevate your photos and videos to the next level. Download the free PDF (linked below) for a handy reference you can take on your shoots. Remember, these aren’t hard-and-fast rules—experiment with them, adapt them to your style, and make them your own.

What’s your favorite composition tip? Drop it in the comments so we can all learn together. Let’s make your next shoot your best one yet!