Explore your environment to see the shape elements that can be used as complimentary backgrounds for your subject and that work with the lighting you have available.

Scout the location before the subject is in position so that you have time to look for the best compositional elements to use in your shot.

David starts out on the sunny steps using leading lines to create a dynamic composition with Hope as the model before switching to using building shapes to create an executive portrait with Ben (model). Reflectors and off camera flash can be used to layer light on to the subject.

Working in an urban landscape gives you the opportunity to play with shapes, patterns, lines and colors.

The curved seats of an ampitheater demonstrate the power of leading lines to draw the viewer's eye to the subject, while in the next scene the texture of moving water adds energy to the composition.

A series of repeating elements can often create a vanishing point within the frame that can be used as a strong compositional tool.

Pay careful attention to all of the elements that are included in the frame, but don't worry about nailing the shot on the first try. Start shooting, refine your lighting, change your position, interact with your subject, and work toward the composition you visualized in your mind's eye.

The way you light a scene has a big impact on the composition. Watch how David demonstrates how changing the lighting can improve the composition.

David wraps up the course with an example of how centering your subject in front of a symmetrical background can create a truly dynamic composition.