Composition is one of the most crucial elements in photography. It’s what gives your images balance, depth, and impact. Even the most stunning landscape can look flat and uninspiring without good composition. In this article, I will go into the fundamentals of composition and explore how I use different techniques to create visually captivating landscape photos.
Before we begin, it is worth noting that composition techniques haven't changed since effectively the dawn of time, and many of you will already know the fundamentals, especially if you have tried figuring out how to improve your shots before now. However, one key item to note is that you will never stop learning when it comes to composition in landscape photography, as every location you visit will be different from the last. Having a set of tools in your bag will help you nail those shots, regardless of the location you are visiting. Additionally, while some might believe that composition is a set of rules and only rules, there are caveats to this approach. Look at them as tools more than rules, be ready to adjust to what the scene requires, and, most of all, experiment to see what works for the shot. Once you know what you are looking for in terms of elements, then the jigsaw becomes one that is more manageable and ultimately more rewarding.
Rule of Thirds: A Starting Point
The Rule of Thirds is one of the most well-known compositional techniques, and for a good reason. It’s a simple method that helps you break up your frame into more dynamic sections. Imagine dividing your frame into a 3x3 grid and placing key elements of your scene along those lines or at their intersections.
For example, placing the horizon on the top or bottom third of the frame can create a more balanced image than placing it directly in the center. Similarly, aligning a subject like a tree or mountain peak at one of the intersecting points can add visual interest and keep the viewer’s eye moving around the image.
While the Rule of Thirds is a fantastic starting point, remember that it’s just that—a starting point. Rules can be broken, and as you develop your style, you’ll find opportunities to experiment and bend the rules to create something truly unique. As I said in the intro, do what works best for the scene, but still use the fundamentals more than anything else. If you need to have the horizon lower, then have it lower; just try to keep it on one of those lines for the best impact.
Leading Lines: Drawing the Viewer In
Leading lines are another powerful compositional tool. These are lines within your scene—natural or man-made—that guide the viewer’s eye toward the main subject. Roads, rivers, shorelines, fences, and even shadows can all function as leading lines.
For instance, a winding road leading toward a mountain range can add a sense of depth and movement to your photo. The viewer’s eye naturally follows the line, creating a journey through the image. This technique is especially effective in landscapes because it helps create a sense of scale and immersion. But what if there isn't a clear leading line in the scene? Well, this is where we need to be creative. Look for elements that you can place in the frame that run at an angle. Putting this on the left or right, depending on its direction, can not only act as an anchor but also move the eye into the scene.
Symmetry and Balance
Symmetry can be incredibly striking when used effectively. While the Rule of Thirds encourages breaking up your frame, symmetrical compositions embrace balance. Reflection shots over still water or framing a subject perfectly in the center of the frame are great ways to achieve symmetry.
However, symmetry doesn’t always mean everything has to be identical on both sides of the frame. You can create balance with contrasting elements—like placing a small tree on one side of the image and balancing it with a mountain range or larger object on the other.
The important part I have found is looking around the location for such items before you even set up your tripod. Many photographers rush into taking a shot. They arrive, put the camera on the tripod, and take the shot almost immediately. The best approach is to survey the scene. Once you find what you are looking for, then look to fine-tune the composition further.
Foreground, Middle Ground, and Background
One of the best ways to create depth in your landscape photos is by incorporating distinct layers: foreground, middle ground, and background. These layers help give your images a sense of scale and dimension.
For example, placing rocks or flowers in the foreground, a body of water or open space in the middle ground, and mountains or a sky in the background creates a dynamic image that draws the viewer in. The key is to balance these elements so that none of them feel overpowering or out of place.
In general, you can't change the background, but you can change how it interacts with the foreground and middle ground. Move around the scene, looking for elements that will complement the next. Once you have all three, you are more than halfway there. The next steps help bring it all together.
Framing Your Subject
Framing is an excellent way to draw attention to your subject. This technique involves using elements within the scene—like tree branches, rocks, or architectural features—to create a natural “frame” around your subject. Framing not only helps highlight the main focus of your image but also adds a layer of depth and context to the scene.
It can also be very helpful when you have a dull sky or even a harsh sky to deal with. Looking for elements to act as a natural frame not only adds context to your image but can also be easier to shoot in terms of harshness of light. It can also be far more appealing than a scene of gray.
Negative Space: Less Is More
Sometimes, less is more. Negative space refers to the empty or unoccupied areas of your photo, and it can be just as important as the subject itself. Using negative space effectively allows the viewer’s eye to rest and makes the subject stand out even more.
For example, an expansive sky or a vast open field can serve as negative space, giving the viewer a sense of scale and isolation, which can evoke a strong emotional response.
When taking this approach, be mindful of the edges of your frame and exclude anything that is breaking that emptiness. This might mean zooming in to eliminate it, or it could mean removing that branch or rock later in post. While this is generally possible, if you can avoid this step while shooting, then that’s the better approach, where possible, of course.
Color and Contrast in Composition
Color plays a crucial role in how we perceive a photograph. Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow tend to come forward, while cool colors like blue and green recede. By understanding this, you can use color to create depth in your image. For example, warm tones in the foreground and cool tones in the background can emphasize distance and depth.
Contrast, both in terms of brightness and color, is another way to lead the viewer’s eye through the frame. High-contrast areas naturally draw attention, so use this to your advantage when composing your shots.
Breaking the Rules
While these compositional techniques are incredibly useful, don’t be afraid to break the rules once you’ve mastered them. Some of the most iconic photos are those that challenge conventional ideas of composition. Experiment with different perspectives, angles, and framing to create something unique and personal. As I mentioned earlier, do what works best for the scene, but keep the ideas of the elements always in your mind. This approach will not only ensure you find a better composition but will also ensure that you can adapt and not be fixed in your intention.
Conclusion
Mastering composition is a journey that takes time and practice, but it’s one of the most rewarding aspects of landscape photography. By using techniques like the Rule of Thirds, leading lines, symmetry, and negative space, you can create images that are not only visually pleasing but also emotionally impactful. So, the next time you’re out in the field, take a moment to think about how you’re composing your shot—because the right composition can turn a good photo into a great one.
I have been a landscape photographer for over a decade, and I still struggle at times with composition. However, I have found over time that my eye has improved by knowing what I am looking for when I first arrive at a location. I still make mistakes, of course—I’m human—and that is all part of the landscape photography journey. We learn from mistakes. I have made many, and I hope this article will help you avoid some of them and help you create the images you have always wanted.
If you are more of a visual person, then I have made a video about this topic, which is linked above. I'd love for you to join me.
Do you have anything to add to this article? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments below.
