Photography 101: Learn the Basics with Camera Expert Louis Assoulin

Not everyone who has a fancy DSLR camera can call themselves a photographer. Photography is an art and, just like any other art form, you have to be well-versed in your selected medium before you are able to produce a work that you can truly be proud of. Images can capture moments and convey emotions in a way that words can’t, and knowing how to frame the subject can very much change the story you are trying to tell.

Framing and composition is one of the very first lessons every amateur photographer should learn. While some prefer to shoot by instinct, camera experts like Louis Assoulin believe that nothing beats proper preparation and planning. Learning the basic composition techniques will help improve the quality of your pictures and will make you appreciate the works of other master photographers more.

Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds is one of the simplest yet most effective techniques used in photography. Imagine that the image is divided into nine, equal grids. The image’s most important elements should lie along the lines or should be positioned where the points intersect.

Worm’s-Eye View vs. Bird’s-Eye View

The way you angle your photo can drastically affect the way people view the subject. The worm’s-eye view, for example, is taken from the ground up, and creates the illusion of having a bigger or more powerful subject. The bird’s-eye view on the other hand, is taken from above the subject, which makes it look smaller and more vulnerable.

Use Other Objects to Frame Your Subjects

Framing, when done right, can make an ordinary subject become infinitely more interesting. This technique encourages you to view your surroundings and see what objects you can use to highlight your main subject, creating a more dynamic and multi-layered picture. Photographs do not only reflect the lives or mood of the subject that you choose to depict, it also shows your perspective and how you see the world through your eyes. The way you compose a photograph says a lot about you as an artist and as a person, and this encapsulates how unique an art form photography can be. If you’re considering taking it up as a hobby, camera sellers like Louis Assoulin offer a wide variety of branded camera gear and equipment.