An often overlooked attribute of photographs is the amount of image area occupied by the subject matter. As a general guideline, you might benefit from the following rule-of-thumb: Allow your subject to take up at least 50 percent of your image area.
This may seem obvious, but it is an often overlooked aspect of image use; and becoming aware of this relationship within the photo can lead to better, more effective images on your website. Bear in mind, sometimes a photo’s subject matter is actually about the surrounding area. For instance, the sweeping, beachfront vista of a resort exterior; or, maybe a wide angle, architectural shot of a building’s interior. However, many photos will benefit from cropping. Remember: Allow your subject matter at least 50% of your image area, unless there is a good reason not to.