If you feel like your photographs are looking a little bland, you might need to be a little bit dirtier. At least, in your foregrounds. The art of the “dirty foreground” is a classic compositional tool that is used a lot in cinematography. However, it can add much needed context and interest to your still shots as well.
In this video, Justin Mott shows you how to strategically place objects in front of your lens to create a greater sense of place or depth in your images.
What is a dirty foreground?
A dirty foreground is when you place and out of focus element in the foreground of your shot, to create interest and depth in the image. This method can also help hide unwanted elements in the background, making the subject stand out more.
How to create a dirty foreground
To incorporate dirty foregrounds into your work, you can use everyday objects or specific props. Here are some tips:
Props: Travel with branches, fake plants, textured glass, and other objects that can create interesting foreground layers.
Textures and Colors: Experiment with different textures and colors to see how they affect your shot. Glass windows, semi-transparent curtains, and light-refracting items can all enhance your images.
Aperture Settings: Be mindful of your aperture. Shooting wide open (e.g., at f/1.4) can turn the foreground into a blob. Adjust your aperture to balance the texture and blur.
Experimentation is key
Photography is about experimentation. Try different lenses, apertures, and objects to see what works best. Natural textures like plants and branches work particularly well for placing in the foreground of images, whether photographing at home or on professional shoots.
