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The Rule of Thirds When using the rule of thirds of produces images that are more engaging and better balanced than those that do not follow this rule. It is not so much a definitive rule, as it is a rule of thumb- ie something to keep in mind during the composition. The Rule of Thirds itself is when any image is divides using 2 horizontal and vertical lines- meaning that the image will be split into nine different sections. The most important parts of the scene should then be positioned along or at two adjoining points on those lines. When creating something (whether this is a photo or something on Photoshop) using and applying The Rule of Thirds also forces the creator to think carefully about it, and how to give it the best impact. Modern technology aids this, with it having a Rule of Thirds grid overlay so that you dont have to guess- thus making positioning even more accurate. It can be used on any subject, and with any type of shot. It has been there for artists to compose from since Ancient Greece. Visuality and visual appeal are increased if the subject is not in the centre of the photo, but roughly one third away from it. The viewers eyes are indistinctively drawn to the centre of a picture- if the focal point isnt immediately detected, their eyes scan the rest of the image. The subject will later be detected, but during the course of searching, other attractive elements of the image is discovered and acknowledged. The eye is continually drawn back to the centre, but finding nothing, will follow a different path each time- this process engages the viewers visual sense and will sustain interest in the composition. The ideal location for a subject is at one of the four intersection points. The best photos are those that contain features in all three horizontal lines. This means that there is no dead space in the image. The foreground will be the most challenging, but it can be achieved through the use of rock formations, vegetation, reflections on later, lines of movement- this lends visual interest in those parts of the photo and compliments the dramatic colours displayed in the sky. It is not absolute, and there are instances where centering the subject will produce a symmetrical image that is pleasing to the eye. Another instance in which it could be excepted would be where having the subject dramatically closer to the edge creates dramatic tension.

Off-centre imaging This is the idea that it is more pleasing to the eye, and also looks more natural than if the subject was right in the middle of the frame. Another reason why it is a good idea is because it encourages the composer to become more imaginative with the space around it (otherwise known as negative space). Landscape Shots It is common to position the horizon in the centre of the frame- however, this gives it a split in two impression.

It is instead advised that it is placed along one of the horizontal lines. When doing landscape shots, including an interesting object (such as a tree) positioned according to the rule of thirds provides an anchor and gives it a natural focal point for the scene. Photographing People/animals It is advisable for the animals/people to be positioned to one side of the frame. This gives breathing space and shows the setting of the picture- rather than looking like a mugshot. Naturally, we are drawn to peoples eyes, so placing them at one of the intersections in the grid gives the shot a clear focal point.