Poor photo composition can make a fantastic subject dull, but a well-set scene can create a wonderful image from the most ordinary of situations. With that in mind, we've picked our top 10 photo composition 'rules' to show you how to transform your images, as well as offered some of our best photography tips from the experts who do it on a daily basis.
Photo composition doesn't have to be complicated. There are all sorts of theories about the 'Rule of Thirds' and more complex 'Golden Mean', for example. But if you pay too much attention to strict formula, your photos will lose any kind of spontaneity.
Imagine that your image is divided into 9 equal segments by 2 vertical and 2 horizontal lines. The rules of thirds says that you should position the most important elements in your scene along these lines, or at the points where they intersect.
Doing so will add balance and interest to your photo. Some cameras even offer an option to superimpose a rule of thirds grid over the LCD screen, making it even easier to use.