Cropping Photos for the Web

Creating Compelling Images for Online Viewing

May 7, 2007

When creating images for the web, there are a few simple guidelines to keep in mind. Here are a few quick tips on how to crop photographs for online viewing.

Cropping is the art of composition and creating an image that best depicts the story and message you are striving for. As a photographer, it is one tool used draw the viewers’ attention to the subject of your images.

When creating images for the web, less is more. Small image sizes allow for one or two main subjects to be effectively displayed.

Cropping in camera

Cropping in the camera is preferable to digital cropping. If the photo is poorly composed in the field, there is only so much you can do in the computer.

Quick tips on in camera cropping:

Take your time! Think about what you are photographing and the story you are trying to tell.

Use the zoom on your camera, or even better, physically move forward or back. Don’t be afraid of getting too close.

Keep the rule of thirds in mind (discussed later). Don’t center your subject.

Change perspectives. Drop to a knee, climb a tree, see what you can see. Photos not taken from eye level can be much more interesting.

Look for opportunities for natural framing. Branches, fence posts, buildings, etc. can all further emphasize your subject by providing natural enclosures.

Use the viewfinder and check photos. If you do not like the results, shoot again.

Cropping for cropping in a computer

Once you import your photos you can further crop your photos to emphasize your subjects and stories.

If editing for the web, aspect ratio is not important. The aspect ratio is the proportion of vertical to horizontal space in an image. For printing purposes, common aspect ratios are commonly 4X6, 5X7, and 8X10.

Quick tips for cropping in a computer:

Start with the most important element in the photo and move out. Start by arranging your cropping tool around the most important subject in your photo. Slowly bring out the sides of the crop tool to include parts the compliment your subject.

Keep the Rule of Thirds in mind (discussed later). Some programs can superimpose a grid over your image as a guide, but eyeballing it is just as good.

Rule of Thirds

If you visually divide your image horizontally and vertically with lines into thirds, the points of intersection as ideal places for your subject. This is not a hard and fast rule, but photos are more compelling when the subject is slightly off center.