One of the better known rules of photographic composition is the Rule of Thirds. It is one of the first rules I learned when I was getting serious about photography because I wanted to be able to take better looking pictures. If you practice and master this rule, you will be taking better pictures in no time as you will have a more balanced composition. Of course, remember that this rule can be broken, just know when you are.
The rule of thirds is a guideline on how you, as a photographer, should visualize the image. It helps you compose it in a way that draws in your viewer to the areas and elements in your picture. You are to divide the image into nine equal parts with two horizontal lines and two vertical lines. It is in these lines and or where they intersect, that you need to align the most important elements in your composition.
The horizon should not be placed in the middle of the frame. Placing the horizon in the bottom third (bottom line) can place the emphasis on the sky.
Placing the horizon in the top third (top line) can place the emphasis on other areas of your image. In the picture below, the ocean water and the detail of the pier is where I wanted the viewer's focus.
Remember that you can shoot your camera vertically also. In the picture below the lighthouse is on the right line while the horizon is not in the center but closer to the bottom. This creates a negative space and leads the viewers eyes from left to right.
The Tampa sign and billboard is close to the top line and the sax player is on the left corner, close to the intersection between the left line and the bottom line.
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To read part one of this series click here.
Such an obvious simple trick, and yet I've never thought of it.
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