P3D Improving photographic composition

["Dr. George A. Themelis" <DrT-3d@xxxxxxx>]

>From the messages posted in photo-3d and the few
personal message I have received, it appears that
most people believe that photographic composition
is intuitive, subjective, and cannot really improve
by studying.

I am personally not convinced that this is the case.
I have learned a lot by listening to experienced
photographers talk about this subject and also 
reading a few selective books.  One book I have
recommended in the past is called "Better Pictures
Through Good Composition" by Ray Koken.  I got this
from the Detroit club through Billy Turner (it only
costs a few dollars),

One group of photographers that can benefit from
reading this book are the casual amateur photographers
who don't care to compose art pieces or compete in
photo salons.  I cannot find Koken's book right now
but I remember the first "rule" (or "advice" if you 
want) was "come closer!"  Fill the frame with your
subject.  The second "rule" was: "keep things simple".
Get rid of unwanted & distracting material.  These
simple rules are rules for good composition.  You don't
have to study to follow these rules.  Some people do it
intuitively.  But it is always good to have them in
the back of your mind when taking pictures.

George Themelis