You know that feeling when you’re scrolling through your camera roll and everything feels… the same? Same angle, same framing, same shot. It’s easy to fall into a routine, especially when you’re photographing family moments, client shoots, or just trying to capture the everyday magic.
But the difference between an okay photo and one that makes someone stop scrolling often comes down to one thing: composition.
In this post, you’re going to learn seven simple composition techniques you can start using right away. Whether you’re shooting on your phone or DSLR, these tips will help you add variety, story, and intention to your images.
If you’d rather listen to the audio version of this podcast, click here and check out episode 4 or scroll to the bottom.
Rule of Thirds
Let’s start with the classic. Rule of thirds is one of the most well-known photography techniques – and for good reason.
If you’ve ever seen that grid on your phone camera or in your camera settings, that’s it. Imagine a tic-tac-toe board overlaying your photo. Instead of putting your subject smack in the middle, try placing them at one of the intersections.
This can add instant movement, interest, and story to your photo. For example, if someone is walking, place them on the left grid and leave space to the right to show where they’re heading. It gives the viewer a visual cue that something is happening – or about to happen.
👉 Quick Tip: Start training your eye by turning on the grid in your camera settings.
Leading Lines
Leading lines are exactly what they sound like – lines in your photo that guide the viewer’s eye straight to your subject.
Think roads, fences, stairs, bridges, window sills – anything that naturally points toward your subject. Even furniture or a path at the park can do the trick.
The key? Make sure the lines actually lead to your subject. If they’re off to the side or leading away, they’ll distract rather than enhance.
👉 Try This: Next time you’re out shooting, look for paths or fences. Frame your subject where those lines naturally intersect.
Framing
Framing is one of my favorites because it adds instant depth and interest to an image. It’s like a little scavenger hunt – what can you use around you to frame your subject?
Look for natural frames like:
- Doorways
- Windows (inside or outside)
- Archways
- Crib slats or Moses baskets
- Picture frames
- Florals arranged in a circle
The key is to keep the rest of the image free from distractions. Too much clutter in the background can take away from the frame you’re trying to create.
👉 Watch Out For: Accidental feet, toys, or furniture edges sneaking into the shot – they can distract from your framing.
Negative Space
Negative space is all about simplicity. It’s leaving intentional blank space around your subject to let them shine.
This could be:
- A blank wall
- A clean sheet or blanket
- The sky
- A simple floor or solid rug
- A plain backdrop (I link to mine in the show notes if you need ideas)
Too much going on in the background can make a photo feel cluttered. By using negative space, you draw the viewer’s focus directly where you want it.
👉 Common Mistake: If you go too far and make your subject too small, they can get lost in all that blank space. Keep the balance.
Patterns and Symmetry
Our eyes love patterns – and they love it even more when that pattern is broken just right.
You might find patterns in:
- Rows of windows
- Lines of trees
- Toys lined up
- A rug’s repeating design
Add a subject to break that pattern, and your image instantly becomes more dynamic. Symmetry works similarly. Think of two parents on either side of a child – your eye naturally lands on the middle.
Styling Note: This is where I get picky with wardrobe. Bold patterns and busy backgrounds? Not a good combo. I usually recommend lighter neutrals for clients, especially if I don’t have full control over the location. That way, they stand out instead of blending into a chaotic backdrop.
Layering (Foreground, Middle Ground, Background)
Layering adds depth and story. Instead of just one flat plane, you’re creating a 3D effect by having something in the foreground, your subject in the middle, and something else in the background.
Here are some ideas:
- Flowers or grass in the front, family on a blanket in the middle, trees behind
- Parents in the foreground, toddler walking toward them in focus
- Shooting through something (a window, toy, or plant) to frame your subject
Just be careful your focus doesn’t land on the wrong thing. If the grass is sharp but your subject is blurry, it misses the mark.
👉 Pro Tip: Shoot wide, then crop if needed. That way, you avoid accidentally cropping out joints (wrists, knees, ankles), which can make an image feel jarring.
Point of View
This one is fun – and often overlooked. Changing your angle can completely change the emotion and impact of a photo.
Try:
- Getting on the floor with your toddler
- Shooting from above (hello, ceiling shots!)
- Pretending you’re a bird looking down or an ant looking up
- Peeking through a doorway or mug handle for a voyeuristic vibe
Different perspectives make your photos feel more like storytelling moments than snapshots. They invite the viewer in.
Just avoid those ultra-wide 0.5 lens shots that distort your subject’s face or body unless you’re going for a very specific look (or just messing around with your kids).
Your Challenge This Week
Ready to practice? Here’s what to do:
📸 Take two photos for each composition technique:
- Rule of Thirds
- Leading Lines
- Framing
- Negative Space
- Patterns & Symmetry
- Layering
- Point of View
Then, post your favorites and use #BetterPhotosPodcast so I can see them! And if you have questions or want to chat about your progress, message me over on Instagram @brittanyporterphotography
Bonus: Tools I Mentioned
I’ve added links in the show notes to some of my favorite tools:
- Backdrops
- My drone setup
- Ladders for overhead shots
- The lens filter I mentioned (the one I tried at the first birthday shoot!)
Here’s more of my faves on Amazon.
Thanks for being here and taking time to improve your craft. These small tweaks can make a big difference. Can’t wait to see what you create.
On the next post– we’ll be diving into storytelling techniques and how to make your photos say more, without adding a single prop. Check it out here.
