Choose a foreground that earns its space

Wide lenses make nearby objects feel large and distant subjects feel small. Move close to a foreground with texture or direction, then check whether it leads the eye toward the subject rather than competing with it.

Watch every edge of the frame

A broad angle collects distractions quickly. Scan the corners for clipped plants, stretched shapes and bright objects. Small changes in height or camera angle often clean the frame more effectively than cropping later.

Focus for the depth the composition needs

Stop down when the subject allows, focus with the nearest important detail in mind and review at high magnification. When the foreground is extremely close, make a short focus stack so sharpness can extend through the scene without forcing the lens into its softest aperture.

Ryan's field note

Technique becomes useful when it responds to the scene. The goal is a decision process you can carry into changing conditions.