Learning to See in Photography: The Best Tip for Better Photos
Better photos start with learning to see in photography. Train your eye to spot light, shapes, and compositions.
Next time you’re out, leave your camera at home and observe the world like a viewfinder.
Why Learning to See in Photography Is So Important
In the days of analog photography, conscious seeing was second nature. Photographers had no electronic viewfinders (EVFs) or displays to review their shots. They had to observe their surroundings carefully before pressing the shutter.
Today, in the era of digital photography, EVFs and camera screens often tempt us to look for interesting subjects only through the lens or on the screen. This approach can lead us to overlook the rich details in our surroundings. Learning to see in photography brings back the focus on observation – a key to becoming a more creative photographer.
Exercises to Learn to See Like a Photographer
Here are three simple methods to help you see the world as if through a camera:
-
Virtual Viewfinder: Imagine you’re looking through a camera viewfinder. Focus on lines, light, shadows, and intriguing compositions.
-
Finger Frame: Use your thumbs and index fingers to create a rectangle. This limits your field of vision and makes it easier to spot compelling subjects.
-
My Favorite Tip: Cut out a frame from cardboard – just like a small picture frame. I love this exercise because it feels like I’m "cropping" a piece of my environment. If you have a favorite focal length, you can even shape the frame to match it. I prefer shooting with longer focal lengths, so this method is perfect for me.
These exercises can be done anytime and anywhere. Learning to see in photography becomes a natural part of your daily routine.
My Frame:
Finished photo:
Benefits of Conscious Seeing
Practicing conscious seeing helps you sharpen your observation skills and fosters creativity. You’ll notice details that might otherwise go unnoticed and gain a better understanding of light, composition, and structure.
Key Benefits:
- Enhanced observation skills.
- More creative photo ideas.
- Improved understanding of composition, light, and perspective.
When and Where Can You Practice Seeing?
The beauty of learning to see in photography is that you can practice it anywhere and anytime. Every setting offers fascinating subjects if you look closely enough.
Examples:
- Morning: Observe soft light and long shadows.
- In the city: Pay attention to architectural lines, reflections, or street scenes.
- In nature: Focus on textures, colors, and the interplay of light and shadows.
Over time, you’ll find your perception changing, and you’ll discover new ways to frame the world in your photos.
How Learning to See in Photography Helps Long-Term
With regular practice, you’ll start approaching photography differently. You won’t search for subjects anymore – you’ll instinctively spot them. Your camera becomes a tool to capture what you’ve already seen with a trained eye. As a result, your photos will be more creative and impactful.
Summary
Learning to see in photography is the key to taking better photos. While it was second nature during the analog photography era, it’s often neglected in today’s digital world. Exercises like the virtual viewfinder, finger frame, or cardboard frame help you train your perception of light, shapes, and composition. Conscious seeing makes you a more creative photographer – and your pictures will improve significantly.
Thomas L.
I am based in Austria with a deep passion for photography, design, and 3D printing. I strive to capture the analog film feeling in my digital photography.
Comments
Add a comment
About us
We are passionate photographers who aim to transfer the analog film feeling into digital photography.
Analog Lightroom Presets
