Composition cheat sheet: 30 guides
Every composition guide in Beginner Cam on one page, each with its lines and a one-line tip, from easiest to hardest. "Subject" boxes show where the main thing goes; dashed boxes are space to keep empty. Print it or save it for your next shoot.
Easy (10)
Rule of thirdsPut the subject on a crossing.
Center focusPlace the subject in the center.
Low horizonKeep the horizon low. Show sky.
High horizonKeep the horizon high. Show ground.
Top-downHold the phone flat above.
Mirror symmetryLine up the center line.
Eye lineKeep the eyes on the top line.
Head and shouldersFit the head and shoulders in the outline.
Fill the frameGet close. Fill the whole frame.
ColumnKeep tall things straight in the middle.
Medium (14)
Leading linesLet lines lead to the subject.
Frame in frameFrame the subject with a doorway.
Negative spaceLeave lots of empty space.
LayersShow near, middle and far.
Lead roomLeave space where they look.
Golden ratioLike thirds, a little closer to the center.
Flat layLay things in a neat grid. Shoot from above.
Side lightLet the light come from one side.
PairPut two subjects on opposite lines.
TriangleArrange three points in a triangle.
RadialLet things spread out from the center.
Half splitSplit the frame into two halves.
Vanishing pointAim where the lines meet.
S-curveFollow a gentle S into the scene.
Advanced (6)
Diagonal flowFollow the diagonal across the frame.
L-frameArrange things along an L.
Rule of oddsGroup things in threes.
Cross diagonalsPlace things along both diagonals.
Break the patternFind a pattern, then break it.
Golden spiralLet the curve wind to the subject.