The secret to great photographs?  Universal theme.

Theme:  The Road Less Traveled

Many photographs are good photographs.  The attention of the viewer is directed to a clear subject and the subject is simplified.  However,  a great photograph goes above and beyond these guidelines (and does not have to necessarily be technically perfect).  A great photograph shows a universal theme.

A great photograph will speak to everyone, regardless if you know the person or place in the photograph.

Theme:  Joyous Curiosity

A great photograph will allow us to recognize some experience or some all-inclusive idea about the world.

A great photograph demonstrates innocence or cooperation.  Concentration or devoutness.  Joy or Love. Work or the American dream.

Theme:  Love

As you look around, developing your eye for photography, look for themes in what you are observing. As you look at photographs taken by others, ask yourself, “What is the theme of the photograph?  Does this portray a specific message?”  You will find the photos that you find great all have a theme.

And with practice and observational skills, you will be able to begin to recognize themes as you look through your viewfinder.  And you will be able to create that great photograph.


Corina is a former science teacher staying home to raise her two imaginative, active, and wicked smart children. Contrary to what the last line suggests, she is not from Boston or Canada. She is a mom, photographer, teacher, outdoor enthusiast, sarcastic, and down to earth woman. You can find her weaving her tall and small tales at Down to Earth Mama.