Perhaps the most important component of any great photo is its composition. In other words, how the image is placed within the frame and how the subject and background relate to, and complement, each other. A common rule to follow is the rule of thirds, which as the name suggests, involves separating the frame into thirds, both vertically and horizontally. By doing this the image is essentially divided into nine equal blocks and the key is to frame the subject at one of the intersecting points rather than framing it dead center. In general, images where the subject is framed in the center of the frame are much less interesting that those that obey the rule. With that said, the rule of thirds is not the only element of a properly composed photo.

Yet another element of great photo composition is the ability of a photographer to alternate between vertical and horizontal framing, which can have a significant impact on the overall image. In general, a subject that is vertical in nature is better suited to vertical framing. An example would be the Eiffel Tower or a giraffe at the local zoo where a vertically framed shot would likely capture the entire subject. Perhaps the whole subject of composition can be summed up in the words of the famous photographer Ansel Adams – “A good photo is knowing where to stand.”