The rule of thirds

The basic principle behind the rule of thirds is to imagine breaking an image down into thirds (both horizontally and vertically) so that you have nine blocks. The theory is that if you place points of interest in the intersections in or along the lines of that imaginary grid, your photo becomes more balanced and allows a viewer to interact with it more naturally.

In a similar way, a good technique for landscape shots is to position the horizon along one of the imaginary horizontal lines you drew for “thirds.” Make sure the horizon is straight by holding the camera level.

Find fresh angles from which to shoot:

• Lie or crouch in front of the object
• Climb above the object
• Place the camera on ground level
• Take snapshots of objects above your eye level

Framing

Use natural surroundings to add more meaning to your subject. Usually a foreground object is used to frame the picture. It could be anything — trees, windows, arches, a shadow, fences, stairwells, or doorways.

Backgrounds

Always scan the background before taking a shot. Look for colors that don’t fit with the rest of the image, bright patches that might distract the eye, lines that clash, people that don’t belong, elements protruding from the subject’s head, etc. Cultural backdrops are interesting and help draw the reader into your story and your work.

Foreground objects

Landscape photos look better with a foreground object. Foreground objects will help frame the scene and add a look of three-dimensionality.

Tilting

Tilting can provide a contemporary feel for a photo. However, use it sparingly! It can be very distracting. Use tilting to photograph two subjects with a significant height difference.

Patterns

Patterns, both natural and manmade, bring a sense of visual rhythm and harmony to photographs that, like a series of repeating notes in a melody, capture the imagination. Patterns appear whenever strong graphic elements—lines, colors, shapes, or forms—repeat themselves.

Activities and interaction

More than any other kind of photo, candid shots of you interacting with local people are best. Shoot activities such as cooking, eating, walking, working, praying, singing, shopping, teaching, and playing. If you are serving as a family, remember to include your children interacting with others.

Focus on local people

Focus on local people as the center of attention with yourself or a family member close by interacting.

Close-ups

Consider close-up portraits of local people that you know personally. Some of the best portraits happen when the subject looks completely natural and isn't looking directly at the camera.

Capture cross-cultural settings

Find photos that illustrate how people live in another culture and how they worship there. Get names and other caption information whenever possible.

Pleasant faces

Sometimes people look scared or unhappy about having their picture taken. Putting people at ease can be a challenge, but talk to your subjects to develop a sense of trust.

Eyes

It’s usually best if a photograph shows the subject’s eyes. If the subject is looking down, get lower so you can see his/her eyes.

Concept photos

Photos of people walking down paths or roads could illustrate going on a life journey. Photos of people walking through a gate or a door could symbolize open communication. And photos of people crossing bridges, riding in boats, or climbing steps could symbolize connections. What other symbolic photos could you take?

Taking photos in sensitive regions

When workers in a region cannot be pictured, try taking a photo of them from the side or back.