Composition / Learn by doing
Headroom explained simply
What is โHeadroomโ?
The space between the top of a person’s head and the top edge of the image.
- 01Top edge
- 02Space above head
- 03Portrait subject
How do you use Headroom practically?
A small exercise
Make three portraits with small, moderate and large headroom. Compare which suits the intended layout.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does Headroom solve a problem?
It helps avoid cramped or oddly empty portrait framing.
What can go wrong?
There is no fixed ideal amount. A close editorial crop can intentionally cut into hair.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Top edge โ Space above head โ Portrait subject. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
Composition examples โ B&H
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
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