10 Questions Every Photographer Should Ask Themselves

When you’re out on a shoot, and you’re looking through the viewfinder of your camera, what thoughts cross your mind? Most of us probably don’t think twice before taking a photo except for trying to capture what we see right away.

At some point, in order to take your photography skills to the next level, there are some questions you should ponder, and quite possibly, make a habit of them.

Below is a list of 10 questions that every photographer should make a habit of asking them, especially if they want to compose better photographs.

Photo by: dreami

1. What am I trying to say?

This question is important to ask yourself before you even touch your camera. It is not only helpful to beginner photographers, but is also an essential question that professional photographers ask themselves frequently. With examining the story behind the photo, you’re also asking yourself what the photo’s purpose is.  This will lead to you developing better framing, exposures and compositions. The reasoning behind your photography is important and can be about a wide range of themes such as fun, capturing an important moment, or documenting an event. Besides, it’s good to know what you’re doing, isn’t it?

Photo by: narabia

2. What is my main focal point?

When you have your camera in your hands and are looking through the view finder, what is your main subject? Also, what do you want the viewer of your photo to look at immediately? Once you’ve decided, you’ll know how to place your subject within the frame. For some, a good reference to use in this situation is the rule of thirds.

Photo by: joneartista

3. Are there competing focal points in my composition?

Many times, there is more than a single focus point in a composition. Being aware of that is essential to achieve great photography. When you’ve decided what your main focal point is, and where to place it in the frame, be sure to look at what else might be going on in your frame.

In some instances, something extra can add to the photo while other times, it can only be distracting. If you find that there is a distracting element, try readjusting your position.

Photo by: dimkatm

4. What is in the Background? Is there anything in the Foreground?

Two important areas to be aware of is the background and foreground. Sometimes, when looking through the view finder, you can easily miss these areas, so making a distinct note to yourself to examine what is there is critical.  With practice you can develop a habit of being conscious of what is in your surroundings.

Photo by: Terrordrome

5. Where will the observer’s eye travel?

This question also has to do with your focal points. As you’re creating your composition, and have noticed what is in your surrounding area, decide if it’s the right shot. The way to do this is by thinking about how an observer would see it.

Photo by: nop

6. Do I have a good Proximity?

A common mistake that happens in photography, especially digital, is taking a photo where the subject isn’t filling the frame. In order to compose a really dynamic photo, you should position yourself close to the subject, and make lens adjustments so that it fills the frame.

Photo by: mich984

7. Is my Frame Straight?

Straight framing simply takes practice and awareness. Furthermore, composing a photo with straight lines within the frame can make all the difference in the world. Something that is very useful in most cameras is the gridlines on the viewfinder or the LCD screen. Before you press the shutter button, see if you’re lined up with the gridlines.

Photo by: Meandarksmile

8. Where is the main source of light coming from?

Light is one of the most essential elements in photography. Ask yourself where the light is coming from, is your subject getting enough of it and is your flash necessary. A photograph without enough light can cause the composition to lose its detail. Other ways to improve your lighting is by increasing your ISO and by setting your shutter to stay open longer. If you do set a slow shutter speed, you may want to use a tripod to eliminate camera shake.

Photo by: tigerpaws

9. Do I have another perspective?

After you’ve asked yourself all the questions above, it’s a good idea to see if there is another perspective you can take on your subject. This can be simply moving more to the right or to the left, sitting on your knees and photographing upwards or photographing downwards on your subject. A small change can do big things for a photo.

Photo by: Sha2001

10. Can I change how I’m holding the camera to make a better photo?

Just like changing perspectives, holding your camera in a different way can produce a visually pleasing photo. Try holding the camera diagonally, vertically or even upside down. Experimenting with your camera is the most fun of it all, so don’t be afraid to move around.