Photography can be a tough nut to crack. You could have all the gear in the world, but if you don’t know how to use it properly, your photos can really look subpar. That’s why I’m here to help you understand the four essential elements that can make or break your photography.

Clarity

Let’s start with clarity. If your image isn’t focused correctly, it’s not going to accomplish much. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “but what about artistic effects or points of view?” Sure, those can be great, but they need to be intentional. In most cases, you want your subject to be in focus and sharp.

Composition

Next up, we’ve got composition. This is all about how you arrange the elements in your shot to tell a story. Cropping can totally change the feel of an image, so it’s essential to think about what you want to convey. When I’m shooting, I always try to place elements in a way that feels natural but aspirational for the situation.

Color

Now, let’s talk about color. A slightly off-color balance can really make a difference. If your image is too warm or too cool, it won’t look quite right. Trust me, I’ve learned that the hard way – try editing an entire shoot with your computer’s night shift on, and you’ll see what I mean.

Story/POV

Finally, we’ve got a story or a specific Point of View (POV). This is all about the perspective you’re shooting from and the story you’re trying to tell. It’s essential to think about who you’re shooting for and why. Are you trying to create a visual of confidence and competence for a headshot? Or are you trying to show something that’s both attainable and aspirational for food photography?

As you can see, there’s a lot more that goes into photography than just pressing a button. But with these four elements in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning images that tell a story.

So next time you’ve got a camera in your hand, think about what story you’re trying to tell. And keep these four elements in mind – clarity, composition, color, and your story. With a little practice, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a pro.