What does compositional framing in photography aim to achieve?

Compositional framing in photography aims to focus attention and enhance storytelling by guiding the viewer's eye towards the main subject of the image. Through techniques such as using natural frames found in the environment—like trees, doorways, or windows—photographers can direct the viewer's focus, creating a visual narrative that emphasizes the relationship between the subject and its surroundings. Effective framing can improve the overall composition and enhance the emotional impact of the photograph, making it more engaging and thought-provoking.

While minimizing background distractions, increasing depth of field, and reducing exposure levels are important concepts in photography, they are not the primary goal of compositional framing. Rather, these elements might support effective framing, but they do not encapsulate the primary intention behind framing techniques, which is to tell a more compelling story or draw attention to specific elements within the frame.