Creating eye-catching visuals isn’t about owning the fanciest gear or spending hours tweaking colour curves. Most of the time, it comes down to paying attention to a few simple (but surprisingly powerful) basics. Whether you're snapping a photo, filming a video, or levelling up your brand content, these beginner-friendly tips can help you create visuals that actually connect.
1. Think in Thirds
Ever notice how an image feels off when everything is centred? The “Rule of Thirds” is a basic but effective guideline. Imagine your frame divided into a 3x3 grid, and position key elements along those lines or intersections. It gives your visuals balance and helps guide the viewer’s eye, without them even realizing it.
Bonus tip: placing the horizon smack in the middle of the frame tends to flatten the shot. Try pushing it higher or lower for more drama.
2. Guide the Eye
People naturally look where others are looking. If your subject is gazing off to the right, the viewer will instinctively follow. Same goes for lines: fences, sidewalks, railings, ceilings, these can all lead the viewer’s eye toward (or away from) what matters. Use them intentionally.
Just keep in mind: bright areas, loud colours, and movement can also grab attention, so make sure they’re working with your message, not against it.
3. Get Low. Or High. Just Don’t Stay Boring.
Perspective is everything. Shooting at eye level is easy…and usually the least interesting option. Crouch down, stand on a chair, tilt your camera (but only if there’s a good reason). A small shift in angle can make a huge difference.
A tiny dog can look heroic. A towering building can feel miniature. It’s all about how you frame it.
4. Background Check
Your subject should stand out from the background. Not get lost in it. Create space between the two, or use lighting, focus, or a longer lens to bring attention to what matters. Natural light usually works best, but it can be unpredictable. For people, soft light is most flattering. Harsh midday sun can cast unflattering shadows.
Want to step it up? Experiment with colour temperature. Contrast warm tones with cool ones for added depth.
5. Sunset ≠ Story
Sunsets are great, but what they’re illuminating is often the real magic. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) and blue hour (just before sunrise or after sunset) offer that warm, glowy light everyone loves. Avoid shooting in the harsh overhead light of high noon unless you're intentionally going for strong contrast or drama.
6. Motion with Meaning (Video Tips Start Here)
Video adds time and sound to the mix, which makes it more dynamic, but also trickier to get right. Movement is essential! Either something moves within the frame, or the camera moves to follow the action. But (and this is important) keep the camera stable. Too much shake = instant viewer fatigue. Unless your goal is to make people anxious, avoid jerky motion.
7. Plan the Frame
Let’s say you’re filming a basketball game, and the action flows left to right. Try placing the net in the top right third of the frame. Now you’ve got space for the players to move across the shot. It’s simple, satisfying, and way more effective than chasing the ball all over the court.
If you're moving the camera, plan your motion ahead of time. Light, slow moves often work best. Zoom out or use a wider lens for smoother tracking. Even a smartphone with built-in stabilization can get impressive results. But camera movement takes practice, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
8. Don’t Ignore Sound
We know…this is a blog about visuals. But if your sound is bad, people won’t stick around. Investing in a simple mic setup or recording in a quiet space can make a world of difference.
Because let’s face it, no one wants to watch a beautifully shot video with crunchy, distant audio.
Visual storytelling doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick to the basics: composition, lighting, perspective, movement, and sound. Whether you're capturing a moment or crafting a message, a few thoughtful choices can take your visuals from flat to fantastic.
Need help creating visuals that tell a stronger story? Let’s chat. TDG’s in-house team can help you plan, design, shoot, edit, and elevate your next project, without overcomplicating things.