In my quest to hone in my skills in taking better pictures that can tell a story, I have consolidated the following tips or rules to achieve this goal
The rule of thirds - The theory is that if you place points of interest in the intersections or along the lines that your photo becomes more balanced and will enable a viewer of the image to interact with it more naturally. Studies have shown that when viewing images that people’s eyes usually go to one of the intersection points most naturally rather than the center of the shot - using the rule of thirds works with this natural way of viewing an image rather than working against it.
Show the third dimension - A thought-through mindset and applying of a combination of well-focused subjects and soft backdrop in between the subject to give an overall 3D dimension of the image. The lens Depth Of Field will also ensure a sharp contrast of sharp and soft focus on subjects and surrounding.
Overlapping objects - The intentional laying of objects over each other across the viewfinder, giving viewer a concept of space and depth on the picture.
Elements of perspective - Mindful use of symmetry in architecture or infrastructure or pattern to further reinforce sense of depth and space
Follow these tips and you are on your way to taking better pictures altogether! Well, I did.