Camera angle is very important to composition

Camera angle is a very a important factor when composing your photograh. The mood or drama of a photograph can be completely changed by changing your angle. If you want to take better photos instead of simple snap shots you should start practicing with different angles.

Definition:

When we use the term "camera angle" we are referring to the angle of the camera in relation to the subject you are shooting.

Four types of angles.

1) Eye Level

This is the angle that we see used most. The camera is held level and pointed directly at the subject, which is shown pretty much as it is encountered from an "eye level" view. It records the subject but there is little drama to the shot. It results in a neutral photograph.

This is fine when you are recording such things as sports teams or other group shots or for taking photos of items for insurance purposes. When simply documenting a subject.

2) High angle

This type shows the subject from above. In other words you are looking down on the subject. This is a great angle to use when you want to make your subject appear less powerful or more submissive.

3) Low angle

The low angle can of course produce the opposite effect of the high angle. You would use this angle to make your subject appear more dominant, larger and powerful. You can use the low angle to add dramatic impact and to separate your subject from the background of your shot.

4) Oblique angle

This is when your camera is held at an angle so that the horizon is tilted. If you wish to dramatically display unease or disorientation this is the angle to use.

Other considerations.

When deciding which angle would be best for your composition don't forget to walk around your subject and view it from all directions. It is three-dimensional after all and you really want to get the best shot that will show more than one side. Then shoot it using the four different angles discussed earlier and see which best portrays what you are trying to communicate.

If your subject is a stationary object such as a building or statue, return to it at different times of the day. As the sun rises the shadows will get shorter and as the sun sets they will become longer. The different positions of the sun will also illuminate different areas of your subject and cast shadows on other areas.

When you return use the same angles that you used earlier in the day and see the difference it makes to your photos. You may even get great shots from angles that didn't work the first time around.

The point is as always, learn by doing. Take lots of shots and have a great time.

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