Canon Bird Branch Project | Biodiversity Initiatives | How to photograph wild birds Lesson 5 | Altering the composition for better photos (2024)

As noted in Lesson 3, you should focus on the bird's eyes, keeping them in the center of the AF area. If this recommendation is followed, you will end up with centered compositions in which the main subject is placed in the middle of the photo. This is the most basic composition technique and is effective for beginners that are trying to capture the main subject. This lesson will introduce three other common composition techniques as well as centered compositions.

Centered compositions

This composition style places the main subject in the middle of the photo. This is the most basic composition and is effective for beginners who are learning to capture the main subject. Mastering this composition style is the first step toward better photos.

Diagonal composition

This composition style arranges the main subject and other key features in the background along lines running diagonally across the frame. Diagonal compositions can create a sense of vibrancy or a sense of depth in a photo.

Rule of thirds

This composition technique divides a photo equally into thirds both vertically and horizontally. The main subject and background features are placed on the lines, or at the intersections of lines. The rule of thirds creates a sense of narrative about the subject and gives your photos a professional, polished look.

Rule of fourths

This composition technique divides a photo equally into fourths both vertically and horizontally. The main subject and background features are placed on the lines, or at the intersections of lines. The rule of fourths makes the background appear even wider than the rule of thirds, resulting in a more expanded expression.

When you are starting out, it can be difficult to think about the composition at the same time you are taking the photo. A useful exercise is to try holding the camera vertically while keeping the subject centered in the frame. You can also shoot at the highest resolution possible and later crop the image to adjust the composition.

one point advice

Ways to make composing photos easier using camera functions.

Some cameras have a function that superimposes a grid over the image when looking through the viewfinder. This makes it easier to gauge the composition before taking a photo.
Some cameras also have an electronic level function that indicates the camera's inclination. This function allows you to check the horizontal and vertical orientation of the camera using the viewfinder, which is very convenient when composing your shots.