Back to Blog
header graphic for a photographic blog post about including a human element.

Enhancing Your Photographs: The Power of Including a Human Element

composition creative tips Nov 15, 2023

Including a human element in your photographs can greatly enhance the overall impact and storytelling of your images. By adding a person or people to your composition, you not only provide a sense of scale but also create a connection between the viewer and the scene, making it more relatable and engaging.

One of the main advantages of including a human element is the ability to convey the size or magnitude of a subject. For example, if you are photographing a vast landscape, adding a person in the frame can help viewers understand the grandeur of the scenery. This human figure acts as a reference point, allowing the viewer to appreciate the scale of the environment. Similarly, if you are capturing a towering building or a massive monument, including people nearby can emphasise its size and make it more awe-inspiring.

Moreover, a human element can add a storytelling aspect to your photographs. People have the power to evoke emotions and tell stories through their actions, expressions, and interactions. By including individuals in your images, you can capture their experiences, relationships, and narratives. Whether it's a candid shot of a child playing in a park or a portrait of an elderly couple holding hands, these human elements can evoke empathy and create a deeper connection with the viewer.

When incorporating a human element, it's important to consider the composition and placement of the person within the frame. Experiment with different positions, angles, and distances to find the most effective way to convey your intended message. Remember, the human element should complement the main subject of your photograph, not overpower it.

In conclusion, adding a human element to your photographs can bring a sense of scale and storytelling to your images. It helps viewers understand the size of a subject and creates an emotional connection by capturing human experiences. So, next time you're out with your camera, don't hesitate to include people in your compositions and watch as your photographs come to life with added depth and meaning.

 

Our weekly Tips and Techniques email is FREE.

Sign up today, unsubscribe anytime.

We hate SPAM. We will never sell your information, for any reason.

Don't miss out on unlocking your full photography potential. Join the MYP community on a monthly subscription to gain exclusive access to photo critiques, expert tutorials, and a network of like-minded photographers. Transform your skills from amateur to awe-inspiring.

Tell me more