COMPOSITION MISTAKES that photographers make and how to avoid them

[@simon_dentremont]

Don't forget to download my free guide on shooting backlit! www.simondentremont.com/freebie123

[@MrBillkaz]

Done good sir and thank you

[@NorwayT]

I tried, but all I got was "Captcha validation failed. Please try again." without seeing any captcha challenge on the screen… Which makes it kinda hard to do what the invisible Captcha wants me to do… Great videos!

[@VangelisMatosMedina]

8 tips in 8 minutes, instead of half hour, you are the real MVP.

[@wolfgangmarvelous7239]

I watch a number of channels on photography. This one consistently delivers useful advice in a concise and pleasing manner. You give polished and efficient presentations that are easy on the ear. Some photographers stumble over their words, some have annoying affectations, others fill the time with unnecessary verbiage. Not you. Keep up the great work!

[@hughchisholm-ns]

I agree! You know Simon isn’t going to waste your time with “fluff”.

[@simon_dentremont]

Wow, thank you!

[@desireneilson2168]

Ditto!

[@RobbSkates]

Yeah he's good haha

[@uhoh7541]

This gentleman also always answers questions and isn't afraid to say when he doesn't have the answer or isn't certain. Sign of a truly intelligent and helpful person!

[@mikeuptonphoto]

Man I like content like this. Straightforward, to the point, and every second of the video is loaded with good advice.

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks very much!

[@lyuklike8767]

As a beginner, I have no clue at all about photography, this gentleman explains really well, patient and clear explanation. And his last name sounds so cool.😅

[@brunaburg9377]

Really useful tips. My beginner mistake was only seeing what my brain didn't "ignore" because it wasn't part of the subject. My brain saw one person, the camera saw everyone else as well

[@alilstinky]

It seems too good to be true that you consistently give away such incredible and clear advice completely for free. Absolutely love your videos and always come away with something new to try. Thank you for everything!

[@Macmannus82]

This is not "one of many" photography channels. This is THE BEST place to find everything you need to know about photography. Btw i think i'll have to creat a special placr on my yt account specifically for your movies.

[@MarksThinkTank]

I'm shooting with a S23 ultra phone camera cuz that's what I have. Even so, applying this and your other tips to my approach has made a huge difference in the quality of my photos. Just moving through the day, I'm starting to become aware of my surroundings in a new wonderful way. Thanks for your content!

[@jamestonbellajo]

Thanks for this Simon. I’ve seen a few ads and other creators saying they’ll teach these things in exchange for money but the fact that you do this for free and so concisely is incredible. I hope you feel appreciated by the community.

[@simon_dentremont]

Glad it was helpful!

[@KurtisPape]

I primarily photograph small birds and my biggest mistake when I was a beginner was shooting too tight, my only goal was to fill the frame with the subject as much as possible. There is a middleground, if the subject is too small it feels like i'm photographing a tree rather than a bird, if the subject is too large it may as well been taken in an aviary. This is where small birds are difficult because it's basically telephoto marco photography, where larger subjects like raptors you can naturally shoot wider while still having a good subject size.

[@christinaeneroth675]

I had a photo rejected from a model railroad magazine because it showed “too little train” 😅. The editor instead picked photos were the train filled the frame 😅. But then I got to print the photo of the train in its natural habitat, with a nice blurry bridge and empty track ahead in the foreground, and showcase it at a train show instead 😊

[@lawrencenebriluy1367]

My favorite photography teacher.

[@robertelmouchi5018]

Hi Simon, This is nobody. I want to share some compliments; 1) even though I was a commercial photographer for 20 years, I’ve never seen the fundamentals of composition presented and explained as well as this video, 2) your video is a well paced balance of speed and information, which kept me interested from start to finish, 3) the much shorter standard channel I.D. clip Immediately after the topic introduction is a great improvement. In general, I think you have created a successful format that, I hope, will grow your channel. I will continue to watch. Thank you. Bob

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks Bob! And everybody is a somebody!

[@dream431ca]

One of the things I learned as doing landscape photography for a few years now, is sometimes you don't need a clear subject. The whole photo or "picture" as it were, creates the scene, especially with editing techniques that creates the feel you want. This is especially apparent in some street photography, where you want to convey a certain juxtaposition between two or more parts of the photo by using off angles, unique lighting and different placement of elements in the frame. I do agree, if the photo becomes to busy, then it's hard for the observer of the photo to know what the story is. It's a fairly fine line, but it's fun to cross that line and see what you can come up with.

[@greebo6549]

👍 The lighthouse scene at 3:21 IMHO is the better of the two examples ... collectively all the parts together work better than trying to focus on one element

[@Sushi33312]

Foreground framing, even if just a few fronds or shadowed leaves, rocks, trail, etc around the edges adds enough depth so to place the scene so it doesn't look agoraphobic. Need something to relate the viewer to the scene. That's why Grand Canyon vistas often fall short of actual majesty.

[@bryan81584]

I recently came back from an air show. I tried to use a lot of these tips here..I found not completely zooming in on the planes enabled the condesation trails and interesting sky to add a lot more to a lot of shots. The sky was fantastic that day, so I tried to include it as much as possible. I was extremely pleased with the results! Thanks!

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks for sharing!

[@GordonFRegan]

I liken my travel photography to my golf game. "Every once and a while, I take a great shot." MY biggest composition problem is just like this comment."I want to fit everything in." I downloaded your article about back lighting, and that will definitely help me with harsh lighting situations. Great video.

[@simotherworld728]

Thank you for showing comparisons and "mistakes" in your own work! It's so easy for someone to say "Here's what a good composition is" and leave it there. But for me, the comparison between a successful composition and a less successful composition, especially using the same photo/scenario, is where the connection is made. You have to see the mistakes too so you can recognize them in your own work! Thank you for putting so much thought into your videos. Cheers!

[@mathiasbecktangaaandersen2490]

This is so inspiring. I've just bought my first "real" camera a few weeks ago. Thanks to your tips and tricks my photos have improved immensely. I've never even tried taking pictures of wildlife but now I can't stop taking pictures of birds all the time. I'm currently studying abroad in New Zealand, so there's a lot of wonderful nature to practice and take inspiration from. Thank you so much for the informative videos and tricks to improve my photography.

[@RipeOldBanana]

A lesson learned from watching an old movie - 8mm - from my in-laws' wedding. The photographer captured people dancing but only centered their heads and shoulders in the frame. All we see is people bobbing up and down with ceiling above. The interesting footwork of the dance is lost forever. Seems the same could apply to still photography. Good composition is a gift to future viewers.

[@Sushi33312]

I am a compositional photographer, so I do these things without having to think about it. I can make instant compositions out of almost anything. Even my grab-shots seem to naturally balance. My one downfall was my horizons...frequently they were off-kilter just a degree and always had to be corrected in the darkroom! I thank the universe for digital cameras! All these skill tips are great advice. Thank you!

[@kurotaka007]

What can I say that hasn’t already been said. Going backwards for refresher’s help break old habits. Clear and concise message. I’ve watched many a “Photography” videos but your channel is the benchmark I measure all others. I learn. I’m inspired! I’m amazed at the sheer beauty! The most palatable channel out there. Sensei…much appreciated!

[@simon_dentremont]

Glad to help!

[@gyratingseacow595]

You're a gem, good sir. Never change.

[@jeffkimble8857]

Like so many others on here, I really appreciate your channel. I have been an amateur photographer for about 12 years but struggle mightily with good composition and a few other technical areas. This video, like all your other videos, cover areas I struggle with so it’s obvious you’ve walked the path I am currently on 😅. I do some landscapes, fireworks and birding and I’ve gained a wealth of information from you. Again, much obliged for you taking the time to do this. I hopefully can go on one of your tours in 2025! Keep up the good work. We appreciate it!

[@Ulquiorro]

Photo from 7:07 is just crazy, im amazed. I had the oportunity once to take a similar photo in daylight, but from my lack of knockledge and experience, i ended up with a bunch of too-bright-to-look photos, it justs makes me sad. In 2 months more, i will have the same chance again, i hope i can do it this time!

[@mikelthewug]

I was literally thinking of improving my composition, saying nothing out loud, and your video popped up! I've been watching you for like a year and you're great at teaching us new photographers! Thank you!

[@simon_dentremont]

Wonderful!

[@dizietz]

Simon -- I am absolutely not interested in taking wildlife photography, but your videos are such a wonderful treat that get straight to the point and open one's mind to possibilities. Thank you!

[@HowardWolff-cu3mk]

This is one of the best talks ever. Cape town South Africa

[@smoke362]

Watching your videos is like taking a class on photography and actually being enthusiastic about the subject. Thank you so much for sharing your time and knowledge

[@simon_dentremont]

My pleasure!

[@adrianmichael4042]

I'm becoming a better photograper though I don't own a camera. Thanks for growing my passion for photography and i believe I'll become a better photographer

[@trevorkloth2222]

7:05 casually just shows one of the coolest pictures i’ve ever seen

[@MrOz8472]

Composition issues aside, I rather like the image at 3:39. It grabs my attention, makes me want to study it. Captures the sheer power of those waves, the might of the sea. There's beauty in that chaos.

[@chrisweavers903]

The BEST photo advice Channel - each post full of easy to understand advice and guidance - not obsessively technical but all the information

[@alexeilers6536]

I'm new to photography, and have been absolutely binging your videos the last couple days. It is SO EASY to understand what you are teaching, and even in a few days my photos have come a long way. Thank you!!

[@simon_dentremont]

Awesome, thank you!

[@clonkex]

Wow, your photography is incredible! The trick with photography isn't that each element is especially difficult on its own, but getting them all right at once requires a lot of practice. You are demonstrating a very high level of competence when it comes to getting them all right at once!

[@DSG0805]

That tiny clip if the bird in the cold with the air coming out its beak is amazing

[@harrison00xXx]

5:40 I had to think about that as i saw a photo from the NPT treaty in 1986, where the photographer didnt shoot the paper itself as all photographers, instead he photographed the mass of photographers and cameras all over the place shooting the papers. Thats basically a more interesting perspective than the photo taken by the rest of the photographers since you could technically even look at this paper in a museum.

[@edy5082]

Better told than many professors, this is one of the top explanations and with examples explaining

[@PenguinAdLitem]

Once again you have almost instantly improved the quality of my photographs quickly and effortlessly. Your super straightforward, no nonsense approach is perfect. Thank you so much for your content!

[@simon_dentremont]

Wow, thank you!

[@augusti1]

In the beginning, I wanted to show how sharp I got the subject. Now I have learned, like a painter, to show more and that breathing space is perhaps more important than the subject. Learned a lot of tips from you Simon, thanks for it

[@simon_dentremont]

Great job!

[@Sven-R]

I think it’s less laziness causing not to move to get a better background or removing distractions from your image. For me, more often than not it’s more about recognising it when on location. There are some many things to look for at the same time, from technical things like getting the right focus, a good exposure etc., and at the same time all the distractions around you.

[@clonkex]

100%. For me, my brain naturally filters out all the rubbish behind my subject and I don't notice it. Thankfully I'm getting better after consciously paying attention.

[@arkicorbilla1983]

Thank you so much, Simon. I'm a beginner in photography. I've learned a lot from your videos! As Architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe famous quote said 3:47, "Less is more".

[@mikede2464]

I can binge this channel for hours....and every video is a revelation. Fantastic work. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us.

[@dalloiselle7274]

Thank you for a composition lesson that goes beyond the rule of thirds and provides reasons and how to’s for breaking the boundaries of the rule of thirds.

[@simon_dentremont]

You're very welcome!

[@TheAndyTortoise]

I'll let you know my biggest composition mistake in 6 years when I stop making them. ;) Thanks for the shooting backlit eBook!

[@mauriciogarfield7122]

Simon you are my Reference as nature and landscape photographer and your videos and Tutorials are my permanent guides. Thanks so much

[@simon_dentremont]

My pleasure!

[@omzig18]

I'm a beginner with photography I've been using my phone or a point and shoot but I just got a Sony a7ii to become a pet photographer and these tips are a lifeline. Thank you

[@Ragingwasabi9000]

I only take screenshots in video games but this really helps a lot. Never understood when to center my subject or follow rule of thirds but now i know its based on symmetry of the scene!

[@hugo_vroom]

You're videos are the best photography videos on KZbin. You always have such great tips and deliver them in such a great way. Awesome explanations too!

[@simon_dentremont]

Wow, thank you!

[@chrisburnard5157]

Thank you Simon. Your content to me is always top quality and inspirational.

[@dominikmilien]

Hey, long time viewer here. Just got an idea, what if you found a platform for your subscribers to share their photos for others to look at and you would then maybe use some of those pictures as good and bad examples of what to do and what not to? There is a chance that people do mistakes you wouldn't think of so it could be beneficial. Thank you for your videos

[@simon_dentremont]

Good idea!

[@JohnJones-pe9kj]

I agree as well !! Simon you are one of a handful of photographers I would want to give me an opinion my work. If you follow through with this idea set it up for subscribers only. Most of us want constructive feedback and criticism with comments to help improve our art.

[@namenloserflo]

Maybe discord could work. Without the premium version (nitro) we'd have to convert the images to jpg though to make them under 25mb. I love the platform for chatting though and administration works well.

[@philipcolumbus3054]

It’s a good idea. I just worry you won’t have any time to shoot with all the photos you will be asked to look at! 😮

[@citizenychoux]

I cannot stress enough how great this would be in my opinion. Such a marvelous idea!

[@markbalazscseke470]

Last tuesday I was out photographying flocks of cranes. I kinda like to do all kinds of photography but mainly lifestyle (non-set snapshots), hence I do not have lenses larger than 80mm equivalent. After hours of suffering to actually see the cranes with my trusty 50mm I decided to use the clouds and the sunset as main subjects, with the birds being presented as tiny little silhouettes. I think that'd do it for the homework. At that point, I am very grateful for your videos, for the sake of leading me into wildlife and landscape photography. Live long and never stop! (pretty pleaseeee)

[@dylancleveland]

My phone is the best handheld camera I have but I do have an Air 3 and this made me realize why some of my aerial photos that I felt like were great "views" didn't feel like good photographs.

[@adt7058]

thanks for all the advice! photos are all insane but i was particularly impressed by the two photo at 2:09 the seal and the fox looks amazing, looking directly at us wow

[@simon_dentremont]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jamescullen3252]

Hi Simon, thank you for the video. Numerous so called popular 'KZbin photographers' fail to mention or fail miserably at presenting work that contains a scrap of compositional technique/s. I found your video instructive and to the point. Thank you

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks for sharing

[@HusbandnWifeDuo]

Watched the video on my TV and liked it immensely. I am into hiking photography, which is like street photography, except that I shoot landscapes, wildlife, flora, fellow hikers to show scale, an unusual natural phenomena as I hike. I may not be able to afford time to wait for the right moment to take a shot, but I am sure several techniques from here will be helpful.

[@Jimo368]

I was taking pictures of hummingbirds and wasn’t getting the results I wanted so I put a ladder against the house and took pictures downward with much better pictures. They were less aware of me and I avoided aiming into a bright sky

[@JohnJones-pe9kj]

WOW JIMO thank you for taking the time to write this. Hummingbirds are one of my favorite birds to watch and photograph, one of the most frustrating to capture that “One of kind shot”. This concept puts me in the director’s chair. I know as time passes I will add more to art of capturing better photographs of these ballerinas of the air.

[@Swaggerlot]

I use a very basic mental checklist, not that I claim proficiency in all yet. 1. Content - what you are actually photographing and is it going to be interesting to viewers? 2. Composition - how have you framed the content? 3. Competence - have you made the best use of your equipment?

[@steveruel3175]

Excellent information and examples that clearly demonstrate the point of reference. One of the better presentations on composition.

[@simon_dentremont]

Wow, thank you!

[@robertleem5643]

Another excellent video, I do try and put your suggestions to use, surprising though how many times I watch your content over and over again, so much to remember

[@simon_dentremont]

Cool, thanks

[@justinryan1488]

I’ve ordered a few rite in the rain books and have been filling them with tips and basics from your videos So keep up the work Simon Your fueling my desire to be better

[@digital-nature-uk]

Just found your channel and thank you, thank you, thank you! I have been trying digital photography for a few months and am happy to say that my "gut instincts" on a few things coincided with your advice. The thank yous are for your excellent explanations on WHY something works, not just how.

[@simon_dentremont]

Great to hear!

[@kyonru]

Thank you, I finally understand I don't have to use all the 500mm in my lens. 😅 Last week I decided to edit some bird photos I took in a trip to Colombia, I thought they where really bad, but once editing them I realized that the ones where the subject was not in the center of the frame or where not all the way in, looked really nice. This video gives me a clearer explanation of why is this: I need to work on my composition.

[@simon_dentremont]

Glad it was helpful!

[@training7574]

Very useful food for thought, thank you. It helps a lot comparing a decent photo with a great one, thus learning to spot the difference. You rightly emphasize that photos are meant to activate the viewer's interpretations or direct his gaze.

[@jimgsewell]

Thanks for the tips. Composition is an ongoing challenge. Thank goodness for high megapixel cameras. They afford the opportunity to take your time and recompose, when you miss it in the field, as I still often do.

[@thomasphillips5850]

Thanks Simon, it's always nice to get a little refresher here and there. Thank you.

[@simon_dentremont]

Enjoy!

[@Western-Ranger.]

As an amateur photographer these videos are fantastic and I'm learning so much. Thank you and keep them coming please

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks, will do!

[@kj6372]

Always enjoyed watching all your videos Simon! I may not have wildlife where I live, but your tips still apply to what I am shooting

[@michaelme1548]

I like these. There were a couple of the examples where I didn’t prefer the one I was supposed to but those were the exceptions.

[@grumpyfpv]

I have been doing photography for a couple years now and have found it hard to find my spot as I love to shoot different things. Today was my first day really giving wildlife a shot. Got super lucky and got a beautiful shot of an Elk. Was such a great experience and can't wait to do much much more.

[@janpauls1873]

This is by far the most compact and valueable guide on composition I have ever seen. Thank you! I think other rules will apply when you have more then one and less then too much subjects, because they will relate to each other. Besides that, I really envy you of your shoot on the snow owl :) BR from Germany

[@esakamonin5309]

Thank you so much Simon for the backlit guide.

[@simon_dentremont]

My pleasure!

[@luzr6613]

All good things to be aware of and to meditate on. The biggest challenge i have is usually simplifying complex environments - like inside the rainforest i live in. It's a challenge too because the rainforest is inherently complex and representing it as anything other fails to capture one of it's most fundamental features - Catch 22. Regarding your shot of the lion with the voyeurs gallery.... I know what you're saying, but i can see a flip-side that, while not as pleasing in some respects, is arguably more important in others. What i saw in that compressed image was the lion as it now is - reduced to being the subject of the gaze, not the 'thing in itself', and pressured on all sides by the encroachment of people in it's habitat. So, from my perspective, that's a valid and important image illustrating a small part of a significant and ongoing global story. It's documentary photography in the purest sense. I'd add to that with another shot - the B&W of the woman stranded in the middle of the highway. That's graphically and aesthetically strong, but it also conveys the sense of disorientation and danger of the modern world - that juxtapositioning of speeding metal with vulnerable flesh.... Great moment - wish i'd taken it. All the very best to you and thanks for another great video. Cheers from NZ.

[@Kellysher]

What great tips for us zoom lens shooters! In my case the RF 100-500. My subjects can be smaller in the frame due to distance. However there are times that I actually zoom back for less focal length to increase the aperture. More light and sharper photos. I’ve taken my share of portrait shots, but I tend to like more habitat shots these days. I’m a nature nut, so habitat and behavior shots are my style! I spend a lot of time observing and on Google.

[@simon_dentremont]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Stefan-ys2rx]

What a great Video! Thank you! Mist Times ppl Just give some normal sayings or a lot of talking without big improvments. But your examples. We're great!

[@simon_dentremont]

You are so welcome!

[@TimberTransport]

That "i know you can do it" is a guaranteed smile from me every time :D

[@mikes96fs]

Thanks for all the information you share! I’ve been making short videos on my iPhone for a couple years. Buying my first “real camera” in about a month. I’ve always used mostly point and shoot camera on full auto mode in the past. After watching alot of your videos over the past couple months I feel I am finally ready to purchase a canon R6 mark ii. I was planning on using it mostly for video but now, your videos are inspiring me to go out and take still pictures too! You explain everything in a way that someone without a ton of experience can understand

[@djmusic130fdy]

Great advice. Though I've been shooting awhile, backgrounds are something I really focus on now. It really does make a huge difference making sure there are no distractions, and often it's not all that much of a move. Shooting eye-level would come in a close second. Always love your videos. Thanks for helping us along our photographic journey!

[@kenschaub4119]

Great tips. Thank you. I am still not used to snapping one with my 35mm prime and seeing how really small and “way back” subjects are. Kind of jarring and makes me want to go hook up a zoom. I guess i just like “closer”

[@bhaaratjoshi]

Never thought I'd ever be patient enough to watch any video completely until I found this channel.

[@simon_dentremont]

too kind!

[@MattHalpain]

This year the local neighborhood flower gardens in people's yards the flowers have been very abundant or plentiful. Depending on the available natural flowers in peoples gardens in the neighborhood I will supplement buying or purchasing flowers to photograph. I shoot flower n foliage photos with my Canon R100 paired with a 70-200mm f2.8 lens.

[@BruiserFL]

Composition is my weakness. Thanks for the tips.

[@micter59]

We heard many of these tips on youtube videos. But the last one is different and not very often told. Thanks !

[@BrianChristopherPhotography]

I wholeheartedly agree with your instruction which is why I get so conflicted. If I look at the top ten most expensive images ever sold, a good number break these rules. 99 Cent II, Rhein II, and Untitled #96 are a few examples.

[@MartinB0]

Thank you for sharing those tips with us. I remembered my photography teacher who told me those tips too.

[@bartsme]

I'm having a hard time understanding which is foreground which is backgroung until i found this video and it helps me understand the composition ideas in easier ways i can relate, thnks a lot, time to go out again

[@simon_dentremont]

You're very welcome!

[@D-generon]

I kinda into street/architecture photography and my biggest composition mistake for a looong time was not being aware of how many random out-of-place object there are in the way of the subject: like poles, wires, road signs, cars, billboards, random people, etc.

[@whispofwild]

Another super video. What's really good about your videos is you cover one subject in a short video. And give useful tips to the aspect of photography. Well done...keep it up.

[@simon_dentremont]

So nice of you

[@jonmazurek7158]

Your work is amazing. Thank you so much for your content. Love it!!!! Absolutely stunning images and priceless tips.

[@simon_dentremont]

Glad you like them!

[@higgsfermion3536]

Nice Tips and especially good examples. I once heard a talk about composition, but none of the examples that were presented made me think "this is a god photo". Your examples are very inspiring.

[@RealCopsReelLife]

Great video. Love that you’re right into the “meat and potatoes” of your lessons. Well done.

[@tashitenzin4599]

I can't take photos like you but ur tips and beautiful shots always makes me happy.. 😊

[@simon_dentremont]

Thank you so much 😀

[@RedmilesShark]

Composition, especially with complementary subjects (e.g. green traffic with blurred car) makes you look differently to a lot of things. Devil is in the detail. Again great video that gets the mind rolling.

[@otnipraccoon1828]

Thanks for the tips. I tried the different angle tip on a squirrel in a feeder and got a really nice and unusual shot.

[@reicherttjr]

As always, you have given me more composition ideas that I need. Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge.

[@simon_dentremont]

My pleasure!

[@Thorstein31]

When trying to take wildlife shots, I try to get a quick one as a banker, thrn try to move around for composition, always in the hope I don't scare the beastie off! None of my shot are anywhere near your standard, but it's an aspiration, and fun to keep trying to improve!

[@brianjordan8990]

This is a great video. I have been a hobbyist photographer for years and have the creativity of a sharp stick. It's something I've always struggled with. This was awesome info. Thanks Simon, I'll be trying your advice and try to keep avoiding these mistakes.

[@antonioblake7754]

This video is great. You are literally practicing what you are preaching👏

[@simon_dentremont]

I appreciate that!

[@gratefulangel674]

So much value! Great teacher, every idea comes with an example. Thank you! New fan!

[@CDeeez94]

My biggest composition mistake in my photography journey? *EVERYTHING* I wanted a nice camera and cool photos but I knew absolutely nothing about composition. I didn't know what made photos compelling or interesting to look at other than pretty colors and interesting subjects. I wish I had seen this video before I bought my first camera. Edit: Thank you for putting out this video.