How the foreground creates depth in photography

One composition technique that is constant in nature photography is to create a sense of depth by using foreground elements. In today’s article, seasoned nature photographer Alan Bohms will show us some theories of this technique, as well as how it can be achieved.

Knowing the foreground

As a nature photographer it is essential to know how to utilize the foreground to add interest or, in this sense, create depth for a great landscape photo. We all know that foreground is anything that lies between us (the photographer) and the subject, but knowing how to use them is a virtue of common sense and creativity, claims Alan Bohms. To be clear, though, foreground is only one of three sections that make a landscape photo. The other two are the middle ground which is the subject, and the background which is everything behind the subject.

How to use the foreground

Now that we’ve determined the foreground, it is time to know precisely how to use it in creating depth to a photo. Alan Bohms recalls the leading lines technique where viewers are drawn to a subject by virtue of the elements within the foreground. In that sense, objects such as rocks, shells by the shoreline, flowers on a mountain range, small trees and plants, even the mere specks of fallen leaves, create the necessary depth that is essential.

Keeping it sharp

Since the foreground is the one near the photographer, it is strongly advised to keep the view of it sharp, says Alan Bohms. Maintain between f/11 and f/16 of aperture settings to ensure adequate sharpness.

Conclusion

As a nature photographer, Alan Bohms considers this special bond between the foreground and the subject to create that necessary depth. He will try to explore in future articles how this could be enhanced, but for now, beginners may look into this issue as a primer to appreciate this basic but important knowledge in nature photography.