Subject Matter

The building you choose to photograph becomes the Subject Matter. Why I like a specific building or other subject can be completely different from your reasons. What counts is we both know what is visually appealing to us. Our eyes are drawn to things that spark an emotion or feeling.

One reason we photograph things is to capture that emotion or feeling so it doesn't fade from our memory. You want to show it off so it keeps that spark alive. You don't want to look at your photo at a later date and say; "I remember that differently."

What you decide to photograph is not as important as how you capture the image.

Make that main thing that caught your eye the main focus or center of attention. Move in, zoom in or move around to a better viewing point to capture a good photo. You want to add drama.

Notice how the details start to pop out as we get closer. Areas of interest are starting to be isolated. I've zoomed in with the camera as far as I can, so I think I'll cross the street and get even closer. A good rule of thumb is when you think you've gotten as close as you can, go in just a little closer and see if that's even better. You can always back off.

That's even better, and you can see all the cool details. I turned the camera 90 degrees on its side to take what is known as a Vertical shot, very dramatic. What we have done is the first stage of Cropping, cutting things out of the shot to isolate the building.

I think this shot does a good job showing off this building.