Does your image feel flat? If you’re not getting the same results you see from others, or that you expected to, it’s not because you don’t have a good enough camera, or because your subject isn’t as interesting. Many new photographers struggle with this, but there’s hope! There are several things you can try to help you add depth to your photo so that they look more three-dimensional instead of “flat”.
Your photo looks flat if it lacks depth
The simplest way to tell that your photo lacks depth is that everything in it sits on one plane. To fix this, try looking at your scene in 3-D and adding foreground, mid-ground and background elements. Even a little tree branch, person or piece of wall in the foreground will be enough to give your photo depth and make it come alive.
Adding light and shadows creates dimension
If your photo has flat lighting, it looks flat. You can easily add light and shadow to your subject if you position your camera in a different position relative to your light source. If you’re photographing your subject with your light source directly in front of you, your subject may look flat. If you move the light source or change your position slightly, you can create much more drama.
Viewpoint changes everything
Most beginners shoot photos from the same eye-level viewpoint that we see. There are ways to make photos look three-dimensional and less predictable without using fancy equipment. Get down to your subject or climb up higher, or even get closer. If you’re used to photographing a subject from a standard height, move your body and lens to capture a unique angle.
Your photo needs a background, but not too distracting a one
A photo is only as good as its best element. A boring photo can have a strong subject, but if the subject is lost in a chaotic background, the photo won’t look interesting. If you feel like the background in your photo distracts from the subject you’re trying to highlight, check your framing for any possible adjustments. Even moving one step to the side can do the trick.
Final thoughts
If your photo looks flat, the problem isn’t that your equipment lacks power. If you look at depth, light direction and viewpoint, your photo can look much more dynamic. You just have to get in the mindset to see space instead of surface.