What is the "Rule of Thirds"?

The Rule of Thirds is a basic but still powerful technique in photography used for creating more balance and engaging compositions. Imagine a grid (or use the built in setting in your camera) that overlays your image dividing it up into nine equal parts using two horizontal lines and two vertical lines. As you compose your shot, try to place key elements (things you find visually attractive or interesting) at the intersections of these lines. When you do this, you automatically draw your viewer's eyes naturally to the focal points in the image. This creates a sense of harmony and proportion, and can make the difference between a boring image and one that resonates. It is both simple to apply and works in a variety of settings. Try it with landscape, portraits or creative compositions of your own.

Try placing the horizon line along the top horizontal line or alternatively the bottom third line instead of the centre. The technique works in both landscape and vertical orientation. This often yields a much more dynamic and visually appealing image.

In portrait photography, the Rule of Thirds can be used to emphasize the subject's eyes by positioning them at the top third line intersection points. This not only adds interest to the composition but also helps to convey the subject's emotion and personality more effectively. Similarly, in street photography, aligning the subject with one of the vertical lines while leaving the background elements on the other side can create a sense of movement and context within the frame. The technique is inherently flexible so try it out in a variety of different ways exploring each axis line until you find what works best for the portrait you are taking.

While the Rule of Thirds is a valuable guideline, don't let it restrict your creativity or make you feel that you can't play with your composition to get the effect you are after. IN the photo above I've just added angular lines which I think brings the viewer into a little more intimacy with these tasy looking Italian desserts (and also reflects the feeling of taking in the full array of offerings while waiting in line for your turn to buy one!) As with all rules, it's important to know them so that if you decide to break them you do so for a reason. The rules in photography are not absolute. Once you become comfortable with this technique, experimenting with breaking the rule can lead to innovative and compelling results. The key is to understand the principles behind the Rule of Thirds and use it as a foundation to enhance your compositions, whether sticking to it or choosing to deviate for creative effect.

Get out there and experiment with different compositions and perspectives to enhance the visual interes tof your images. Once you have internalized the concept of the rule of thirds you will find myriad creatively use this versatile technquie to improve your landscape, portrait and general photography skills. Have fun with it and see where it takes you.