Rule of Third - How to Make Your Photos Stand Out
Blog entry
20th April
You've probably heard about the rule of thirds before, but have you ever wondered what it really means? In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know about the rule of thirds.
The Rule of Thirds Explained
Rule of thirds is a type of composition in which an image is divided evenly into thirds, both horizontally and vertically, and the subject of the image is placed at the intersection of those dividing lines, or in line with either mentioned line.
To help explain the process of using this composition technique I have formed three diagrams, below.
Intersections
In the rule of thirds process, by allocating any of the highlighted intersections, this will form focus points and direct the viewer’s attention.
For this photograph, you can see the intersections have been used to draw the viewers attention to the boat. The images also show balance with the positioning of the boat against the island in the background.
This photo shows the flower as the main focus and has been placed on the left intersection.
Vertical lines
To use vertical lines you will align parts of your photograph with either line indicated in the diagram above.
This is a perfect example of vertical lines being used to compose a photograph, as the stone pile runs along the right vertical line.
The lady in this photograph has been placed upon the right vertical line within the rules of thirds grid.
Horizontal Lines
When using the horizontal lines, you will complete the same process as for the vertical line.
Here is an example of using horizontal lines and a curved leading line. Which starts from the 1st horizontal line and finishes at the 2nd horizontal line.
In this image, you can see that the starfish is on the left intersection on the 1st horizontal line and the 2nd line is the start of the cloud section of the photograph.
I have explained how I feel the photographs above link to the rules of third composition gird. Take a moment to consider if you agree with my interpretations for each image.
One thing to consider is to try and shoot images with this composition technique in mind by using the grid action on your camera or you can risk using the cropping process during your post-production and amend the image to look like it was taken within the rule of thirds grid, but be aware that this will not always work, so try and plan this during the taking of the photograph, where possible.
CAMERA GRID SET-UP
To help use this grid when photographing you can set your camera up with the grid showing each time you take a picture.
See below, for downloadable step-by-step files-
RULE OF THIRDS GRID EDITING
Ways to edit an image with the rule of thirds grid in both Lightroom & Photoshop.
iPhone cropping
You can crop your taken images when using your iPhone. You can crop, straighten and align the image against the rule of thirds grid.
Take a read of this article from Apple, for futher information - https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/iphone/iphb08064d57/ios
RULE OF THIRDS AT HOME
By reading this blog you have seen the use of the rule of thirds grid, when taking a photograph, setting your camera up so that you see the grid each time you take an image and finally how to edit using the rule of thirds grid.
Do you understand how to use Rule of thirds yet?
Every composition technique needs to be practised to learn, so take a watch of this short ‘YouTube’ video about the reason for using Rule of Thirds.
Let’s consider ways to use this composition technique during home isolation, here are 4 ideas to get you started,
Idea 1 - Work together, get involved and use each other as the focus. Why not take this time to take photos of your hubby, boyfriend, girlfriend, mum, dad or kids.
Idea 2 - Use your garden or home or when you are on your daily exercise and take landscape photographs.
Idea 3 - Use your animals or insects.
Idea 4 - Consider planning a still life photograph, by using objects and props, within your home.
Take a read of my still life blog on more information on this process - https://www.wellypictures.com/photographers-blog/2020/1/25/blog-template-crcdl
Conclusion..
By reading this blog on the rule of thirds composition, you should now have a better understanding of the relevance of this technique to the visual look of a photograph. I covered about the rule of thirds grid, as understanding this element can help when shooting and during post-production.
My advice on this technique is to bring the grid up on your camera if you intend on using one.
Quick Tip - When using my phone I make sure to position the object or myself so that I have placed this to the left or right side of the photograph. This will get you thinking about using the vertical lines of the grid.
I recommend that start to practice this composition at home, with the family and if you do, please share your details below in the comments so that I can see your amazing photographs.
Contact me if you have any question about this composition technique.
My next blog is about Balance & Symmetry in photography which is a follow on from this rule of thirds blog as they both relate to the use of this composition.
If you enjoyed this blog, then please read any of my other blogs on Viewpoint, Leading line, Colour & Framing.
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Thank you for reading.