I talked about framing the shot a little while back as a great way to use other people or items to frame your shot. Using things in the foreground can really make a dynamic composition and draw the readers eye to the main part of the image you want them to focus on. Today I want to talk about a similar idea that can also improve your photography, photographing through items. When on a wedding shoot I am always looking for things I can shoot through for an interesting perspective.

There are many things you can photograph through that can give your image some additional visual interest, here are just a few:

  • Glass (windows, a cars windshield, a drinking glass, so many options with glass)
  • Drapes (sheer drapes are great to shoot through)
  • Netting (anything with some texture and holes to create a pattern)

    • Glass can always be fun to shoot through, depending on the angle there can be some really interesting reflections on the glass that can create a strong visual element to your photos. Here is one example of shooting through a window at a church during a wedding. This glass had some etching with an open center section that made it perfect to frame in the couple during the ceremony. Shooting with a shallow depth of field will make the glass in the foreground be out of focus. Even though there are reflections and lots of things going on in the glass since it’s out of focus it doesn’t distract that much and still keeps the focus on the subjects.

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    Here is another example of photographing through glass. When you are outdoors and photographing through a car window there can be lots of glare and reflections. Always watch out for your own reflection so you aren’t in the photo. Sometimes you never know exactly how those reflections will come out but keep trying. The reflection here worked out so perfect, it goes directly across the brides face but is right below her eyes and above her mouth so it really brings attention up to the eyes and the look she is giving.

    Those are just a few examples of photographing through something to get us all thinking. If you have any great shots to share where you have photographed through something let us know. You can always leave a comment below and start a conversation or head over to our facebook page.

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    Next time you are out photographing something remember to try and photograph through something. Then head on over to our facebook wall to share it, I love to see everyones work!

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