Dynamic Framing: How to Create More Engaging Images

As bird photographers, we often get so focused on the subject—pin-sharp eyes, good light, clean background—that we forget how we frame the bird can make or break the image. One of the most underrated tools in your composition toolkit is dynamic framing.

I have to admit that I don't often use dynamic framing in the field, especially when photographing fast moving forest birds. Unless I have the luxury of time, such as shooting a perched bird or waders, I tend to plonk my subject in the middle of the frame, leaving space so I can crop later to introduce dynamic framing as it makes a world of difference to the composition.

What Is Dynamic Framing?

Dynamic framing is the intentional use of off-centre composition, directional space, and environmental context to create energy, tension, or movement within a photo. Instead of placing the bird dead centre in the frame, you position it where it enhances the flow of the image - often using the rule of thirds, leading lines, or negative space.

Pro tip:

When using the rule of thirds, you don't need to line your bird up EXACTLY on the guideline Instead look at the overall shape and position it where it roughly sits on third of the space overall, making sure you leave 'breathing space'.

A top or bottom heavy bird might need an adjustment to the left or right rather than being exactly on the line. I sometimes blur my eyes to look at the overall scene as shapes rather than looking at specifics. Does that make sense? I hope so!

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Why Dynamic Framing Works

It Creates Visual Movement

Our eyes naturally follow lines and implied motion. A bird looking or flying into open space creates a sense of anticipation—what’s just out of frame? This adds life to an otherwise static image.

It Tells a Story

Centred compositions often isolate the subject, but dynamic framing allows the environment or behaviour to support the story. A sandpiper on the edge of a tide pool tells a more interesting story when you show both bird and shoreline.

It Engages the Viewer

Off-centre framing creates tension or balance, which invites the viewer to linger and explore. It draws the eye through the scene rather than letting it settle and move on.

How to Use Dynamic Framing in Bird Photography

Use the Rule of Thirds

Position the bird where its eye or body aligns with the intersecting points on a 3x3 grid. This often feels most natural and pleasing.

Allow for 'Look Room' - Space in the Direction of Gaze or Movement

If the bird is looking left, give it space on the left. If it’s flying right, give it room to “fly into.” This creates breathing room and visual direction.

Balance the Frame with Secondary Elements

A branch, rock, or even negative space can balance the bird’s position. This gives depth and avoids “empty” or lopsided images.

Work the Scene

Move around your subject. Recompose vertically or horizontally. Think of where the bird fits in relation to the environment, not just the background blur.

Use Leading Lines

Natural elements like branches, water ripples, or shoreline curves can guide the viewer’s eye toward the bird without needing it to be centred. With birds on a branch, I often try to position the branch coming out from the corner of the frame, drawing the eye towards the bird.

Allow for 'Breathing Space'

Leave room around the subject and avoid cropping too tightly, draw the viewer into the frame rather than 'shouting' at them with too-big a subject.

Example Comparisons

• Centred Frame: OK - but feels like a documentary shot.

• Dynamically Framed: it’s a scene, not just a subject. It's a subtle difference, but dynamic framing adds a compelling element that looks and feels more natural than a centred subject.

When to Break the Rule

Dynamic framing is powerful, but not a rule. Symmetry, head-on portraits, or intentional minimalism can all benefit from a centred subject. The key is to choose deliberately, not out of habit.

Final Thoughts

Bird photography is more than just sharp focus and good light—it's about visual storytelling. Dynamic framing allows you to invite the viewer into the scene, not just show them a bird.

As humans, our brains love to line things up and space evenly! But true art is not linear but unexpected. So resist the urge to centre every frame! Deliberately place your subject into the scene, taking into consideration the surrounding elements, and watch your compositions come alive.