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Use the Foreground
In many pictures, the subject
itself is the nearest object to the camera.
The image exists on only two planes....the subject and the background.
The
results are often just ordinary shots.
Yet to make your photos more effective, use of the
foreground can be a
big benefit. As well as helping to create an impression of depth and
distance, a strong foreground can make an important contribution to the
composition and overall impact of a photograph.
In some cases, the foreground can be used to lead
the eye towards the
center of interest such as a fence towards the barn or a river towards
the
distant mountain. Imagine the furrows created by a freshly plowed field
and
how by careful composition, you can have them lead to that lone tree in
the
middle of the field.
Another way in which the foreground can be used to
aid the composition
is to use it as a "frame" around the subject. For example, tree
branches
framing the steeple of the church will dramatically add to the overall
impact of the shot. Shooting a charming outdoor scene through a decorative
window frame will add a special touch not otherwise obtainable.
When using the foreground in your photography, you
must pay particular
attention to depth-of-field. Because you'll want the foreground as well
as
your subject sharp and in focus, you'll need to use a small lens aperture.
Learn how to read your camera's depth-of-field scale, or, if an automatic
camera, learn to program the camera to attain the necessary small aperture.
Compose carefully and use the foreground to complement
the subject, not
dominate it.
Use of the foreground will add strength to your shots
and will produce
pictures of which you'll be proud.
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