framing
FRAY-ming
/ˈfreɪmɪŋ/
The photographic composition technique of drawing attention to the subject by surrounding it with visual elements in the scene.
Focuses on composition using foreground elements like arches, branches, or doorways to surround the main subject.
The story behind the word. Tracing back to Old English 'framian' (to construct or promote), the word developed in carpentry to denote constructing a supportive wooden skeleton. Photography adopted it to describe how visual boundaries shape perspective inside an image.
Word relationships
- composition: Composition covers overall image organization, whereas framing specifically refers to surrounding elements.
- enclosure: Enclosure refers to physical fencing or physical surrounding.
- cropping: Cropping trims edges after taking the shot, whereas framing is executed through the camera viewfinder.
Commonly confused with
- bordering: Bordering adds an outer border around a finished image, whereas framing uses internal scene elements.
Word family
- frame (noun/verb): To surround or structure an image view.
Collocations
- natural framing
- tight framing
- clever framing
Example sentences
- "By using the overhanging archway as a natural framing, the photographer gave depth to the ancient cathedral." Composition workshop
Memory hook
FRAME-ing: Placing a natural visual FRAME inside your viewfinder. Bordering the main subject naturally.
When not to use
Do not confuse with physical wooden picture frames purchased for mounting pictures.
Fun facts
- Photographers call the technique 'sub-framing' when windows, tunnels, or foliage isolate the subject inside the picture frame itself.
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