Stunning Bird Photos: A Simple Tip for Perfect Composition

^{Note: This tip comes from Digital Photography School’s article - How To Compose Amazing Bird Photos}

The main subject in a photo is the heart of the image—the element that captivates you and what you want to share with the viewer.

The key to great composition is to identify and highlight this main subject.

When you approach a scene, ask yourself: What captures my attention here? What do I want the viewer to see? Then, make every compositional choice with that goal in mind.

For example, in the above photo. Is the bird the main subject? Is it the environment? It may be the unique coloring of the facial feathers. 

While not every photo has a clear main subject, bird photography always centers around one or more birds.

It's crucial to make sure the bird, or birds, stand out in the frame. Everything else in the photo should complement and enhance the bird or portion of the bird that you wish to highlight.

So, how do you achieve that?

First and foremost, simple, simple, simple! Simplify your composition as much as possible!

1. You can accomplish this through your choice of lens. Get close.

2. Your choice of camera angle. Emphasize or deemphasize the background by observing the lighting and color contrast.

3. Use a frame. Be careful with this one! The frame should not absorb too much visual weight.

4. The positioning of the bird within the overall frame. Experiment with different options and placements.

This photograph hits every composition bullet point!

Want more? If you want to learn more about bird photography, and capture beautiful shots of your own, we recommend downloading and printing out Photzy’s 10 Bird Photography Cheat Sheets (Special bonus available now!)