Photography tips: Clutter free shots

Sometimes it's the simple things in life that gives us the greatest pleasure. With that in mind, simplify your shots and get rid of the "junk" with clutter free images.

A clutter free image is a strong picture because it is striking. The focus of the image is evident. There are no distractions.

Too many points of reference can distract the viewer from what is meant to be the "main" point of reference, i.e. the object or subject you chose to shot. Although this rule applies to all shots, it is particularly evident in wide shots.

Like being defined in life by the things you don't do, clutter-free images are defined by what you leave out.

So when composing a "junk-free" shot, deliberate over what is happening in both the foreground and background and assess whether it's distracting. Take a test shot to mull over.

Again, these rules are not the exception, just another strand to a varied repertoire.

There are always moments where a numerous reference points work very well indeed.