Photo Challenge: Frame Within a Frame

As a photographer, I am always looking at my surroundings with a captured image in mind. This practice has helped me become more aware of the people, landscapes and lighting around me. Among the many ways to creatively draw attention to these subjects is through the use of framing.  Framing can be used to enhance the subject or draw the viewers' attention to the main subject.

Today I am going to take it a step further and introduce you to another form of creative framing that is called "frame within a frame." This technique is when you use repeating patterns or shapes in the foreground to frame the main subject. When used effectively, framing can simplify a composition by camouflaging any distracting elements or by adding detail to an otherwise featureless background.

Framing within a frame strengthens the perception of depth within the image. It also provides facts about where the photograph was taken by showing the subject in its environment. A photo using the frame-within-a-frame technique creates visual movement by amplifying the interest of the recurring shape.

In this photo, I was able to use the multiple doorways as a repetitive frame to draw attention to my subject. The simplicity of the color, pattern and shape work together making the subject clear, adding interest and depth to the image.

Frames can be made from virtually anything. The more you look for them, the more you will start to see them. Things like trees, grass and rocks can be found in nature. Doorways, arches, and window frames also work well. Repeating geometric shapes, such as circles, squares, and rectangles, can provide unique framing opportunities too.

This next image is one of those times when seeing a frame in a frame made for a fun photo. While capturing images of the lovely bride, I spotted the groom sneaking in for a quick photo with his cellphone camera. Standing behind him, I was able to capture both the groom's view and mine of the bride in the background.

It is important to pay special attention to lighting when exposing an image using repetitive shapes. Unlike our eyes, a camera cannot typically record good color and detail in areas that are both sunlit and shadowed at the same time. In this scenario, it is best to bracket a few exposures to see which one you like the best. Using the fill flash on your camera can help add light to the shadow areas, or as an alternative, you can try metering the highlighted areas to create a silhouette of the subject.

The foreground frame can be in either sharp or soft focus, depending on your own personal vision. When in doubt, experiment by taking the picture both ways to determine which view looks the best.

Capturing a frame within a frame is one of those creative photography tricks that get easier to spot over time. Practice will open your eyes to many framing possibilities and improve your chances at success. Taking a few minutes and really looking around your subject can make the difference between a good photograph and a great one.

Happy shooting!