So far we have only discussed the dimisions of the camera frame, however,because we can crop any image to any size and ratio, in theory there there is no limit to the camera format. Magazine editors do this all the time.

Often we are too willing to accept the images we create without being critical of how we could improve the image design. A good way to look at any image ( even the images of photographers we adore) and try other ways of seeing is to cut 2 L shaped pieces of card and lay these over the image, one at the top the other at the bottom, slide the two L shapes inward – outwards up and down looking at how the composition changes. You can also turn them on various angles. As you are doing it, be critical about the aesthetic intensity of the image, where does it produce the desired effect. I have attached an image, which demonstrates this. If you find you are always cropping your images be more critical when you are framing your image in the camera.

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How ever many photographers like Henri Cartier Bresson, pride themselves on the ability to "see" the subject within the frame of the camera. Photographers often printed their images with a black boarder as a means to define the edge of the frame.