Framing in documentary photography is used to draw attention to certain elements of the image, such as the subject, the background, or a specific detail. This helps to create a focal point for the viewer and to guide their eye through the image.

Bokeh is a technique used in photography to create a blurred background. While it can be used in documentary photography, it is not as common as other framing techniques such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, and symmetry.

The rule of thirds is a compositional guideline that divides the frame into thirds, both horizontally and vertically. This creates nine equal sections, and the most important elements of the image should be placed along these lines or at their intersections.

Leading lines are used in documentary photography to draw the viewer's eye to a specific element of the image, such as the subject, the background, or a specific detail. This helps to create a focal point for the viewer and to guide their eye through the image.

Symmetry is used in documentary photography to create a sense of balance and harmony in the image. This can be achieved by placing the subject in the center of the frame, or by using repeating elements in the background.

Framing is the process of selecting the portion of the scene to be included in the image, while cropping is the process of removing unwanted parts of the image. Framing is done before the image is taken, while cropping is done after the image has been taken.

Documentary photographers should avoid using framing techniques that manipulate the viewer's perception of the image, that draw attention to themselves, or that are distracting. They should also be mindful of the ethical implications of their work, such as the potential to exploit or harm their subjects.

The photograph of a child looking out of a window at a war-torn city is an example of a documentary photograph that uses framing to effectively tell a story. The framing of the image draws attention to the child's face and the expression on their face, which conveys a sense of sadness and loss. The background of the image, which shows the war-torn city, provides context for the child's emotions.

The best way to learn about framing in documentary photography is to read books and articles about documentary photography, study the work of famous documentary photographers, and practice taking documentary photographs. This will help you to understand the different framing techniques that are used in documentary photography and how to use them effectively to tell stories.

Common mistakes that documentary photographers make when framing their images include using framing techniques that are too obvious or distracting, not paying attention to the background of the image, and not considering the ethical implications of their work. These mistakes can lead to images that are confusing, misleading, or exploitative.

Documentary photographers can use framing to create a sense of empathy in the viewer by using framing techniques that draw attention to the subject's emotions, create a sense of intimacy between the viewer and the subject, and show the subject in a vulnerable or difficult situation. These techniques can help the viewer to connect with the subject on a personal level and to understand their experiences.

Documentary photographers can use framing techniques such as diagonal lines, close-ups, and high-contrast lighting to create a sense of tension or drama in their images. Diagonal lines can create a sense of movement and energy, close-ups can create a sense of intimacy and claustrophobia, and high-contrast lighting can create a sense of mystery and foreboding.

Documentary photographers can use framing to create a sense of humor in their images by using unexpected or incongruous elements in the image, by using framing techniques that create a sense of irony or satire, and by using framing techniques that highlight the absurdity of a situation. These techniques can help the viewer to see the lighter side of a situation and to appreciate the photographer's sense of humor.

Documentary photographers can use framing techniques such as leading lines, symmetry, and natural light to create a sense of beauty or wonder in their images. Leading lines can draw the viewer's eye to a beautiful or awe-inspiring subject, symmetry can create a sense of balance and harmony, and natural light can create a sense of warmth and atmosphere.