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Composition is the language of photography. Therefore, knowing the essentials helps you better convey a message or tell a story. 

In outdoor photography, you don’t have as much control of the surroundings; therefore, you need to have both a creative and mechanical eye to create beautifully composed images.

Make Use of Leading Lines

The purpose of composition is to direct the attention of the viewer to your subject. Leading lines do this by directing the attention of viewers along the lines that frame the picture. Narrow alleyways, tree lined walkways, staircases, and abandoned railroad tracks all work as fantastic options for leading lines. 

Create Natural Frames

Another way to direct the attention to your subject is to use natural frames. In outdoor photography, you need to find a frame that shifts focus from all the surrounding elements and places it solely on your subject. You can use tree branches or architecture to do this.

Ensure Your Horizon Is Level

This is as basic as composition essentials get. But when you’re photographing outdoors, you should ensure your horizon is level. This makes it easier for a viewer to focus on your subject as it mimics the natural way our brains process information.

Remember the Rule of Thirds

If you want to capture an aesthetically pleasing image or one that has a perfect balance, the rule of thirds is the most tried and true method of achieving this. Using your viewfinder, or your camera’s settings, you create a grid of three vertical and three horizontal lines. The areas where the lines meet will be your focal points and where your subject should be placed, as this follows the natural way people view images.