A guest post by Swan V
Reasons to crop your images square
Cropping in general is a way to change your image sometimes slightly or sometimes cropping can be a huge change in the way that you read the image.
Many cameras back in the days only had a square option and these images were always printed and viewed in this square format. Since we are used to seeing with our eyes with a very wide landscape view, square images can force you to look at the composition a little harder. Also for those who like antique and vintage photos, a square crop can add the finishing touch to make a photo appear as though it were taken years ago. It sometimes might take a little getting used to but once you try it out a little you might really love the square.
There’s something about the symmetry of a square crop. In every image there a different shapes and different lines and while following the rule of thirds, you can still capture an attractive image. Also, the photo as a square is balanced and can make strange angles and lines look more appealing.
Another reasons to crop an image square is to remove distracting people in the background, obtrusive lines or unwanted space – cropping square can also help get rid of these unwanted elements. You always want to try to compose the shot perfect in camera but sometimes won’t have the ability to fully control a shot. Most photos are taken at a very rectangular ratio. When cropping square, you can get rid of a good portion of an image, which can give the subject of your image a better focus.
With a square crop, there’s no right or wrong. If you’re new to the idea, get your camera out and photograph something with the idea in mind that you’ll crop it square. To start, keep the image simple. Because you’ll be cropping off a lot of your image, make sure there’s room to do so. During your post processing, crop your image to a 1×1 or square ratio.
Do you have some great square images to share? Leave us a link in the comments below.
I recently tried one of my highly used and abused 50mm f/1.8 lens. I call it My Weapon of Choice: http://click.lovelldsouza.com/261/weapon-of-choice
Looks great Lovell!
can’t beat a 50mm, always a great lens to use
Really interesting article accompanied by some good example images. I love my 50mm f1.4 lens, and greatly enjoy the square format, takes me back to my days using a Bronica 6x6cm. Phil
Interesting perspective, might just have to try it!
Cropping a picture in post production is always a good idea. Most of us usually are afraid of doing it, but it really can give your picture a totally new look. Not only square cropping is a good a idea. Follow the shapes and subject and ask yourself how cropping the picture could improve it. Taking the picture thinking about cropping it is not always as easy as it looks. We need to practice a little to not lose the opportunity thinking.
Nice tip guys and wonderful examples!! Keep going..