A method and apparatus update a composition database for storing information for setting a composition. The method includes extracting and displaying at least one composition stored in the composition database, counting a composition selected by a user from among the at least one composition, and updating the composition database according to the result of the count. According to the method, compositions selected by a user from among compositions displayed on a screen are counted, and the result of the count is reflected on the composition database. Accordingly, compositions are displayed in a user-centered manner and photographing convenience is increased, a digital photographing apparatus automatically learns compositions preferred by a user during photographing so as to automatically display the compositions preferred by the user, and a composition based on a pattern of the user is suggested instead of a composition according to a certain place or scene.