Guiding the Eye: Through Focus, Depth and Leading Lines
Ensuring the subject is sharp and in focus while the background is out of focus
Focus
A sharp, well-focused image demands attention. When the subject is crisp and clear, the connection is instant—you’re drawn in, engaged, present in the moment with them. A blurry or soft-focus portrait, on the other hand, creates distance. It weakens the impact and makes it harder to truly see the person in front of you. Eyes, in particular, need to be tack sharp. It’s where all the emotion and energy sit. If the eyes are in focus, everything else falls into place.
Depth
Depth brings dimension. A flat photo feels static, while layering elements through foreground, middle ground, and background creates movement and richness. It makes an image feel immersive, pulling the viewer deeper into the scene rather than leaving them skimming across the surface. Leading lines are another subtle trick—paths, roads, architectural features, or even just the natural curve of a pose—all guide the eye to the focal point, ensuring attention lands where it should.
Great composition isn’t just about placement—it’s about making every detail purposeful. A sharp subject, a thoughtful depth of field, and an intentional structure all work together to create an image that feels strong, connected, and instantly compelling.