I find there is always a photo hidden in there somewhere.

Often an image is hiding in the overall scene somewhere - details that I miss and pass by without noticing.

So what I do, generally, to find these hidden gems, is to look for contrast between elements, find strong graphic shapes, repetitive patterns, and prominent; often primary colours.

I don't stop at the first image, but continue shooting, at the same time refining the image by changing camera angle slightly, getting closer or change lenses to eliminate the distractions between subject & object.

Whatever the camera being used here are 3 ways of working a scene.

•Good timing - when sunlight direction and shadow detail often make the shot. Shadow detail often can enhance the graphic effect of the architectural design of a shot, an example would be shadows thrown against a wall by repetitive columns - check the suns angle for time of day and take your shot when suitable.

•Contrasting Patterns - often what you emit from your composition is as important as what you include. Nature has some pretty graphic patterns which can be enhanced with bold colour differences.

•Picture within a Picture - wide angle shows it all and with a great perspective or point of view. A telephoto will allow one to get up close and often see the graphic patterns of the scene or within an object. An example would be a hillside town nestled in the mountainside, great view. get up close with a telephoto and find the graphic patterns of the rooftops.

© Mikefoto

Here is a macro shot.

Photo credits: Mike Ehrman.