Four things from a Ben Long and Richard Klein discussion about architectural photography that apply to pretty much anything.
1. Decide what’s the the one big thing.
Just like all the other courses and tips, the starting point here is also to be decisive about the one thing that’s going to be the subject of the picture. Of course, it could just as easily be a thought or feeling rather than a physical subject.
2. Focal length
The focal length decision is going to depend on the subject decision. If the subject is in the foreground, its importance can be exaggerated by using a shorter focal length. The compression effect of longer focal lengths will even out the difference in emphasis between foreground and background.
3. Build the shot around the subject.
In this discussion, the suggestion was that this is the point at which you consider the geometric aspects of composition.
4. Add depth
The geometrical arrangement is, first of all, going to lead to a pleasing two-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional space. To add depth (if that’s the goal) avoid lining up straight edges. Then use the light. Rather than aiming for a uniformly lit scene, use light and shadow to add depth.