Framing in photography is all about using elements in your scene to naturally draw attention to your subject. It’s like creating a little window to help your viewer focus on exactly what you want them to see.
For example, you can frame your dog snoozing on the rug by placing their leash, a frisbee, and a favorite toy around them. This technique makes your photos pop and gives context to the moment you’re capturing.
In this guide, we’ll show you different types of framing you can try, plus simple examples you can recreate at home.
Why use camera framing?
Framing photography makes your photos feel more intentional, even if you’re just snapping shots on your phone. It’s a simple trick that adds depth and can turn a snapshot into a story. You don’t need a tripod or special lenses—just look for shapes, edges, or objects around your subject that can act as a natural border.
Next time you’re taking a photo of a friend at the park, have them stand just behind a low branch or archway. This camera frame highlights the subject and gives the shot a sense of place.
“Photographers often use tree branches, windows, or doorways to create a natural frame and often a frame within a frame around the subject. This method not only focuses the viewer’s attention but also adds depth to the image, making it appear more three-dimensional.”
—Alan Ranger
Professional photographer and photography tutor
How to frame a shot using your phone’s camera
You don’t need special settings to use framing. Just pay attention to what’s around your subject and adjust your position. Here are a few ideas to help you frame your subject:
- Look for natural edges. Doorways, windows, mirrors, or even someone’s arms can frame a shot. Photographing your kid opening birthday presents? Step into the hallway and shoot through the doorway so it outlines the moment.
- Use foreground objects. Place something closer to your camera to create depth. At the park, shoot through low branches while your friend stands a few feet behind them. At home, let the edge of a coffee table frame your morning latte and open notebook.
- Adjust your angle. Take a few steps left or right instead of shooting straight on. If your dog is curled up on the couch, crouch down and use the arm of the sofa to frame their face rather than snapping from above.
Types of photo framing
Not all photo framing looks the same. Sometimes it’s bold and obvious, like shooting through a doorway. Other times, it’s subtle, like a shadow, or even a stack of presents that naturally guides the eye.
Here are a few common types of framing, plus real-life examples you can try on your phone:
Tips for better photography framing
Framing gets easier the more you practice noticing what’s around your subject. The goal is to guide the eye without distracting from the moment.
And if your framing isn’t quite right in-camera, that’s okay. A quick crop or adjustment later can tighten things up.
Here are some photography tips to improve your framing:
- Pay attention to the edges of your frame: The borders of your screen act like invisible walls. Anything touching them feels intentional or distracting. Before you take the photo, check for objects that accidentally cut into the shot.
- Use foreground elements to create depth: When something sits closer to your camera, and your subject is behind it, the image gains dimension. This layering prevents photos from looking flat. Just make sure to keep the foreground subtle so it supports the subject rather than blocking it.
- Adjust your position for stronger composition: Framing improves when you shift your angle or distance. Move slightly left or right. Step back to include natural borders. Crouch down to align shapes.
- Refine your framing during editing: Even strong photos can benefit from tightening. Cropping removes excess space and strengthens visual focus.
Mixbook tip:
Inside Mixbook Studio™, you can zoom, reposition, and fine-tune your image so the framing feels balanced on the final printed page.
Show off your photos with a custom photo book from Mixbook
Once you start practicing framing in photography, you’ll notice your everyday shots feel more structured and intentional. Instead of leaving those photos on your camera roll, turn them into a custom photo book you can flip through, share, and revisit.
Ready to bring your photos together? Head into Mixbook Studio™ to customize layouts, adjust crops, and fine-tune each page until it feels just right. Start building your photo book today and see how thoughtful framing transforms your favorite moments into a finished keepsake.
FAQ
Why is framing so important in photography?
Framing is important because it directs where the viewer looks. When you use surrounding elements to guide the eye, your subject stands out and the photo feels intentional instead of accidental.
The technique also adds depth and context, which makes everyday moments—like a birthday party or a quiet morning at home—feel more complete when you print them in a photo book.
What is an example of framing in photography?
A simple example of framing is photographing someone through a doorway so the door edges naturally surround them. You could also shoot through tree branches at the park or use a window frame to outline a pet sitting inside. In each case, the surrounding element acts like a border that directs attention toward the subject.
What are the rules of framing in photography?
Framing doesn’t follow strict rules, but a few guidelines make your shots stronger:
- Keep the focus clear. Make sure your subject stands out and isn’t lost in the scene.
- Avoid clutter at the edges. Remove or step around distracting elements that compete with the subject.
- Support the subject. Use the frame to highlight the main focus, not block or overwhelm it.
- Add depth. Include foreground or background elements to create layers in the photo.
- Be intentional. Every framing choice should feel purposeful, guiding the viewer’s eye without forcing it.
