Photographers may not always have time to practice their craft, but that doesn't mean they can't learn or gain inspiration when not behind the lens. For me, I find movies as a rich source of inspiration and education, with each frame designed to visually convey a story, emotion, or atmosphere. Cinematographers use the same set of visual tools and techniques as photographers do, and their styles and ideas can be adapted and applied to still photography. By critically analyzing films, you you can deepen your understanding of visual aesthetics and learn how to better use the elements within a scene to create to create powerful, evocative images.
When the area surrounding the subject is intentionally left empty, it can help define the subject and create a sense of balance and simplicity.
This common technique divides an image into nine equal parts by using two horizontal and two vertical lines, and places key elements along these lines or their intersections.
Elements within the frame can form imaginary triangles, guiding the viewer's eye through the image and creating a sense of balance and dynamism.