Cropping is the process of selecting and reframing an existing photo to create a new composition. It includes:
- Selecting a particular section of the photo to keep
- Removing unwanted elements from the edges of the photo
- Changing the aspect ratio of the original photo
Photo cropping can be done both during the taking of the photo, by adjusting the camera accordingly, and in post-production, using photo editing software.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does photo cropping involve?
Photo cropping is the process of selecting a specific part of an image and removing the remaining parts. It involves changing the composition by cropping the original photo, allowing the viewer to focus on the most important elements and improving the overall message of the photograph.
How to crop photos correctly?
Correctly framing photographs requires the application of compositional principles, such as the rule of threes and the use of leading lines. It is important to eliminate distracting elements, maintain balance in the frame and leave enough ‘breath’ around the main subject.
How to crop photos of people?
When cropping photos of people, pay attention to the eyes, which should be in the upper third of the frame. Avoid cropping the figure at the height of the joints and leave space in the direction the person being photographed is looking. In close-up portraits, focus on facial expressions.
What is a frame in a photograph?
The frame in a photograph is the area of the image visible in the final photograph. It defines what is within the boundaries of the photograph and what is left outside them. The frame determines the composition, proportions and final visual message of the photograph.
What is the basic principle of cropping?
The basic principle of cropping is the tri-partition rule, which involves dividing the frame into nine equal parts using two horizontal lines and two vertical lines. The key elements of the photo should be placed on these lines or where they intersect, creating a more balanced and interesting composition.
Why to Crop?
The main purposes of cropping photographs are:
- Improving composition
- Eliminating distracting elements
- Changing the focus
- Adjustment of proportions
- Reinforcing a message or mood
Techniques for Cropping Images
The Three-Partition Rule
One of the most popular crop techniques is the tri-partition rule. It involves dividing the image into nine equal parts using two horizontal and two vertical lines. The most important elements of the image should be placed on these lines or where they intersect. This technique helps to create a balanced and dynamic composition.
Symmetrical Cropping
Symmetrical cropping involves placing the main subject in the centre of the frame and building around it . This technique works particularly well for:
- Architecture
- Portraits
- Reflections in water
Cropping Photographs Using Leading Lines
This technique involves using natural lines present in the scene being photographed, such as roads, rivers or the edges of buildings, to guide the viewer’s eye towards the main subject. Guiding lines can be:
- Horizontal – creating an impression of calmness and stability
- Vertical – adding dynamism and height
- Diagonal – creating movement and tension
How to Crop Your Photos
Photo Editing Software
The most popular photo cropping software are:
- Adobe Photoshop – a professional tool with advanced cropping options
- GIMP – a free alternative to Photoshop, with basic cropping functions
- Snapseed – a mobile app for quick photo editing, including cropping
Cameras
Many offer a cropping function directly on the device. This allows you to quickly adjust your composition without having to transfer photos to a computer.
The Impact of Photo Cropping on Reception
Cropping photos can dramatically change the message and emotion. Here are some examples:
- Zooming inon the face in can emphasise emotion and intimacy
- Wide crop of a landscape can highlight the space and majesty of nature
- Removing distracting elements from the background can focus attention on the main subject
- Changing the aspect ratio can give the photo a more dynamic or peaceful feel
Cropping Mistakes
When cropping photos, it is a good idea to avoid the following mistakes:
- Clipping important elements – e.g. feet in a full silhouette photo
- Cropping too tightly – leaving too little “breath” around the main subject
- Crooked horizons – especially noticeable in landscape photography
- Ignoring composition rules – e.g. always placing the main subject in the centre of the frame
- Excessive cropping – leading to poor image quality
Cropping vs. Type of Photography
Portrait Photography
In portraits, framing plays a key role in highlighting the features and emotions of the person photographed. Popular techniques include:
- Close-up on the face – to emphasise eye expressions and facial expressions
- Framing from the waist up – to capture gestures
- Full silhouette – to show the whole posture and environment of the model
Landscape Photography
In landscape photography, cropping helps to capture the majesty of nature. Key aspects include:
- Maintaining the horizon line – usually at a third of the height of the frame
- Consideration of the foreground – to add depth and scale
- Use of natural frames – such as tree branches or rock formations
Street Photography
In street photography, cropping often needs to be quick and intuitive. Important elements include:
- Capturing the dynamics of urban life
- Using architecture as natural leading lines
- Isolating interesting details from a chaotic background
Cropping Photos and Copyright
It is worth remembering that simply cropping out part of someone else’s photo does not create a new work within the meaning of copyright law. This means that:
- Cropping does not give you rights to someone else’s photograph
- Publication of a cropped photo requires the consent of the original author
- In the case of images under Creative Commons licenses, please check whether they allow modifications
10 Practical Tips
- Experiment with different frames – don’t limit yourself to your first idea.
- Pay attention to the background – remove elements that may distract fromthe main subject.
- Use natural lines in the environment to guide the viewer’s eye.
- Remember to “breathe” – leave some space around the main subject.
- Consider the orientation of the photo – sometimes changing from horizontal to vertical (or vice versa) can significantly improve the composition.
- Don’t be afraid of asymmetry – the main subject doesn’t always have to be perfectly centred.
- Pay attention to the edges of the frame – avoid accidentally cropping important elements.
- Use the help tools – grids and help lines in photo editing software can be very useful.
- Remember the purpose – cropping photos should enhance, not detract from, the main message of the photograph.
- Keep the original – work on a copy of the photo so you can go back to the original version.
