Negative Space : Why Blank Space Can Be Thoughtful

when it comes to composing a photo, using negative space is something i have done for so long that i no longer realize that i am doing it.  negative space is when you purposefully leave blank space within your frame and it is defined as the space that surrounds your subject.  instead of filling your frame with your subject, you place your subject in one part of your frame and balance it out with blank space.  this is a very thoughtful way of composing an image and showcasing your subject.

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Negative Space : Why Blank Space Can Be Thoughtful

Negative Space : Why Blank Space Can Be Thoughtful | Bethadilly Photography

Your Subject Is Obvious

using negative space allows your subject to be showcased quite obviously.  in the photo above, i placed the carton of eggs in the top third of the frame and filled the remaining two thirds of the frame with negative space.  through the blank space and the leading lines of the table, i am guiding the viewer’s eye right to my subject: the eggs.

Negative Space : Why Blank Space Can Be Thoughtful | Bethadilly Photography

Offers A Sense of Balance

when using negative space, you are offering a sense of balance within your photo.  with this composition, you are balancing out your subject with blank space.  when using this composition, you may find it helpful to remember that less is more.  instead of filling your frame with things and objects, be thoughtful about leaving some empty space so that your subject pops within the frame.  this can be very balancing to the eye.

Negative Space : Why Blank Space Can Be Thoughtful | Bethadilly Photography

Take A Step Back

getting into a habit of incorporating negative space into your photographs is something that takes a little thoughtfulness when picking up your camera.  while this can be done with any and every lens, i find it easiest to creative negative space with my wide angle lens because i can naturally fit more space within my frame.  no matter what lens you are using, get in the habit of taking a step back.  instead of getting really close to your subject, take a step back and observe how you can fit more negative and blank space into your frame to create a stronger composition.

do you use negative space when photographing?  the next time you pick up your camera to photograph something, consider how intentionally leaving some blank space within your frame can help make your subject stand out and create more balance within your image.  and when in doubt, take a small step back.

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Negative Space : Why Blank Space Can Be Thoughtful | Bethadilly Photography

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