You’re standing before a stunning subject – a monk in deep meditation, draped in vibrant orange robes, perfectly still in serene concentration. Jackpot, right? Just snap the photo and head to the café?
Not so fast.
Great photography isn’t just about your subject. It’s about what’s behind them, too. In fact, the background can make or break your photo. Let me take you through four shots of the same monk, in the same pose – and show you how “working your subject” (yes, even a silent one) can completely transform your storytelling.
It was a lucky evening in Angkor Wat with guests during our Cambodia Long Workshop in November…
All photos in this article were taken with a 85mm prime lens.
The Iconic Shot
“A monk at Angkor Wat” — classic, symbolic, a sure crowd-pleaser.
Here we’ve got the classic shot: monk meditating, and Angkor Wat’s unmistakable spires standing proud in the background. It’s iconic, no doubt. The background places the subject in a specific time and place – you know exactly where this is, and it gives the photo cultural weight.
But here’s the twist: it’s also a bit predictable. Familiar. So we keep going and try…
The Cinematic Side View
“Shift your angle, shift the mood.”
Walk a few steps to the right and suddenly the whole mood changes. The background fades into soft light and ancient stonework, casting our monk in a golden glow. Now, instead of anchoring the subject with obvious context, we get atmosphere. The misty horizon, the sunset – this image breathes.
The lesson? Shift your angle, and you shift the emotion of your photo.
The Intimate Close-Up
“Closer is quieter.”
Zoom in. No, really… Step closer. Now closer.
This frame removes most of the external world and draws us directly into the monk’s presence. The background here is architectural detail – subdued, textured, supportive. The viewer is now inside the moment, feeling the silence. You almost want to whisper, right?
Here’s the thing: sometimes the background should fade into the role of “quiet companion” rather than “loud tour guide.” Knowing when to pull back or push in is a skill that develops with time – and many sore feet.
The Story-Soaked Frame
“Same monk. Different story.”
Step back. Breathe it in. The monk remains the anchor, but now the sunset sky and palm silhouettes tell a story. The wide composition evokes solitude, peace, and space – and offers a totally different emotional cue.
Same monk. Same pose. Totally different universe.
The Takeaway?
The monk didn’t move an inch – but you did. And that made all the difference.
Too often we get excited by a great subject and forget to pay attention to what’s behind them. But the background shapes meaning, mood, and message. Whether it’s anchoring your subject in a place, creating intimacy, or telling a larger story – the background is part of your photo. It deserves as much attention as your subject.
So next time you’re out shooting, remember: bend your knees, walk the scene, get close, then get closer. Look behind your subject. Then look again. That monk won’t mind – he’s not going anywhere. 🙂
Photographer’s mantra: “If your background sucks, it’s your fault.”
Happy shooting – and remember, the monk’s not going anywhere. But you should be.