One of the most elemental concepts of photography is often one of the most overlooked principles in many photographs. And that often misunderstood concept is the planer nature of the photograph.
In photography, you are actually capturing a three dimensional subject and transforming it into a two dimensional plane. And the simple truth is that not all subjects translate well as depth is removed from the formula.
So the savvy photographer seeks elements that will enhance the apparent depth of the finished picture. Proper use of light and shadows is one way, as well as including both foreground elements and distant objects.
Practice "thinking in 2D" and learn to "see" your photos in your minds eye as information that needs tweaking and adjusting. And make those decisions BEFORE you open the shutter.
There isn't a photo editing program in the world that can make up for poor composition!

Photo Top Right: Use of light and shadows to produce depth.
Photo Bottom: Use of foreground and distant elements to produce depth.
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All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate Better Homes and Gardens Metro Brokers, Newnan Georgia. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2009. Richard Weisser REOS, E-Pro. licensed Auctioneer. 770-827-6225.
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Richard, your photos are always outstanding, so I knew I'd learn something from reading your post on taking photos---and I did! Now I understand what happens sometimes and not others, for me. I thought I just got lucky sometimes. I do love watching how natural light changes throughout the day, and find the greatest contrasts early a.m. or p.m. Thanks for the great info!
I think I am one of those elements that do not translate well to 2D. By that I mean that I am not very photogenic, however I look very nice in person.
Hi Richard!
I just e-mailed this to my husband...he has discovered a love of photography, so I am sure he will enjoy your post!
I always have wondered how those of you who take such great pictures see them before you take the shot.
Thank you for the information. Any photography tips that you can give are greatly appreciated!! You have a great eye!
Mara...
It's not often that I write about photographic "technique" because many find that it is boring, but sometimes one simple principle can lead to better photos across the board. I hope to do more of these kinds of posts in the future! Thanks for the comment.
JL...
I have heard that is definitely the case! ;)
Paula...
Thanks so much for the recommendation ... I appreciate your support!
Cameron...
It was different in the days of film ... you had to learn to "see" the photo or it cost you money, in film and developing. So the more you did prior to the shot, the less you spent. It takes practice, that's all! Thanks.
Jamie...
Thanks for that ... now tell JL to get a new photo of himself for AR!
Richard,
That was quite well written, and I agree with what you have to say. I personally don't believe in editing so I have to get the picture I want in the field. :)
Steve
Richard, I am not one to take good photos and have not ventured into doing so. Thanks for sharing how to better view a subject.
Richard, Excellent advice. Thank you for sharing your tips - we can all benefit from them. Training the eye to 'see' what the camera sees, really does take practice.
Debi
Please give me hints on mine....I use Digital Image for enhancing and making sharper images....I do believe that photography means to do so :) :)
You always have an 'eye' for capturing the moment...not just dimensions...but...the moment :)
Hi Richard, Thanks for the tips. I admire your photography skills, and you always find the most beautiful scenery!
Richard, I think I know something but still I learned a lot from your post. Great pictures. Especially the second one.
Some things are easier in the digital age... then again I don't know if photography has become easier or we're just more willing to hit delete when the frame doesn't come out quite right. I know I delete far more now than I ever threw away in the print era.
Great tips Richard. Now if I would just get that camera repaired or replaced. It's on my to do list but it keeps getting bumped to the next day!
Richard...I have resigned myself to try and get only a few good pictures. That would be ME setting up my camera and having someone take a good picture of MY trophy fish before I release it!
I can never seem to get the right lighting. But every now and again I just get lucky! Good thing I always know where I can find a beautiful picture
Hi Richard, For those of us wishing to upgrade the quality of our MLS pics ( and who shouldn't ? ) your posts are very helpful.
I read all this stuff and then when I get out to take a picture it just goes out of my head.