Foreground interest: add depth to landscapes and travel photos
A strong foreground element turns a flat view into a photo with depth. Learn how to choose, place and focus on it.
Many landscape and travel photos look flat because everything is far away. Adding something interesting close to the camera gives the viewer a way into the scene and creates a sense of depth.
Good foreground elements
- Rocks, shells or driftwood on the beach
- Flowers, agave or henequen plants
- Steps, railings or tiles leading toward a building
- A hammock, a chair or a table in a hotel scene
- Water, puddles and reflections
How to compose it
Use a wide lens like a 14mm or 20mm and get low and close, sometimes just a few centimeters from the foreground object. Place the foreground in the lower third, the middle ground in the center and the main view or sky above.
Keeping everything sharp
With wide lenses, f/8 to f/11 focused about a third into the scene usually keeps foreground and background acceptably sharp. When the foreground is very close, take two photos, one focused near and one far, and blend them.
Do not overpower the subject
The foreground should support the main subject, not compete with it. Avoid bright or busy foregrounds that pull the eye away from the view.
Next: Change your perspective: shoot higher, lower and closer
