# Change Your Angle

Part of the Photography Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/photography/guide/index.md)

*4. Field Practice: Requirement 4*

> **4a.** Photograph one subject from two different angles or perspectives.

A subject does not change just because it is interesting. It changes because you move. One photo taken from standing height and one photo taken from ground level can feel like two different stories.

### What to compare

Choose one subject that can stay in place long enough for you to experiment. Good choices include a person, pet, backpack, bike, camp chair, flower, or statue.

Then change your point of view in a clear way:

- high angle vs. eye level
- eye level vs. low angle
- front view vs. side view
- close viewpoint vs. farther viewpoint

### What angle does to the picture

A **high angle** can make the subject seem smaller or more vulnerable. A **low angle** can make the subject seem taller, stronger, or more dramatic. A **side angle** can show shape and depth better than a straight-on shot.

Try to notice what each version emphasizes. Does one show more background clutter? Does one make the subject stand out better? Does one feel more personal?

**Angle Experiment Plan** — Keep everything the same except your viewpoint

- [ ] Use the same subject.
- [ ] Keep the lighting as similar as possible.
- [ ] Move your body, not just the zoom.
- [ ] Take several versions of each angle.
- [ ] Pick the two photos that show the contrast most clearly.

![Comparison of the same subject photographed from a high angle and a low angle to show how perspective changes the image](https://ik.imagekit.io/doulacoop/tr:w-800/mbu-assets/merit-badges/photography/guide/angle-comparison-subject?v=d3225fb4)

> **Tip**
>
> If you only zoom in and out, you change framing but not perspective in the same way. For this requirement, physically move to a different spot so the relationship between subject and background changes.

## Official Resources

Video: [Pro Photo Secrets: Avoid Shadows & Master Poses (video)](https://youtube.com/shorts/o5yjHn56VtE?si=XC3OvPIABX276ZtY)

When you show your counselor the two images, explain which angle works better and what visual effect caused that difference.

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- Previous: [Pick Two Creative Experiments](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/photography/guide/req4/index.md)
- Next: [Change the Light](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/photography/guide/req4b/index.md)