Everyone develops his or her own style. What works for me might not work for you - photography, at its basest level, is a personal reflection of how we view the world. And by that, photographers 'see' the world differently. 'Seeing' the photograph isn't something that you can learn just from reading this page, rather, only practice and experience will open your eyes to what makes a great photograph for you.
Learning how to 'see' the photograph is more important than own this lens or that camera. Equipment only allows you to take the photograph, but doesn't tell you what to point the camera towards in the first place.
For example, this is closer to a good photograph....
...than this...
Basic technical issues can get in the way of early attempts at photography. The plus side of all this is that you are shooting digital - the mistakes can be seen instantly and wasted shots cost nothing. Once you learn how to take a sharp and well exposed photograph - see 'On Location' - then it's time to concentrate on composition.
So what makes an attractive photograph? Interesting composition relies heavily on a concept called the rule of thirds. Picture a photograph with a grid of lines over it, spaced evenly at thirds. For whatever reason, these photographs usually turn out attractively. I don't know the biology behind it, it just usually seems to work.
There are, as always, exceptions to the rule. Some shots work as well without the thirds-centering. In this particular case, the sky is a major focus of the photograph.
Another hallmark of a visually interesting photograph is the ability to draw the viewer's eye through the photograph. This progression should be natural and flowing. In the example below, the various elements of the scene - ballast, road, bridge, field, trees, guardrail - channel the eye towards the cab of the lead locomotive. Also note that the cab is at the intersection of two thirds.
The photograph below has several distracting vertical objects that prevent the eye from flowing through the shot. The viewer's eye is trapped and ends up bouncing back and forth between the poles.
But in other cases, vertical elements can work to frame the subject.
Rule of Thirds again. Try to visualize the lines an where they intersect in your head.
More Rule of Thirds
Still More Rule of Thirds.
And in some cases, centered subjects look fine.
Don't be afraid to be innovative and break some 'rules.'
Remember, this is digital. It doesn't cost you anything to shoot your photos, so keep an open mind, have a little fun, and experiment with your shots. Over time you will develop a refined style based on what pleases your eye.
What really matters with composition is whether it looks good to you. After all, you shoot the photos for yourself, not an audience of critics. Don't be afraid to play by your own rules.
