Rule of Thirds

In order to start taking good photographs, the first thing a photographer must learn is about the rule of thirds.  The rule of thirds breaks an image down into thirds, vertically and horizontally. When used correctly, this breakdown helps create visually appealing and balanced shots.

 In order to create an image using the rule of thirds, you must first define what your subject is.  If you are photographing a person, they would be your focus point. On the other hand, if you are photographing a landscape, try and find a point to focus on, such as a tree or interesting rock formation, or whatever may apply in that instance.  Once you have defined your subject, place them on one of the vertical lines that break the image into thirds.  

 Looking beyond the subject, the rule of thirds can also apply to the background.  When shooting without an angle and using a horizon line, make sure your horizon lines up with the rule of thirds.  If the horizon is lined up with either the top or bottom horizontal line, the photo will be more balanced. Placing the horizon line in the center can make the photo feel off-balanced.  Choose which line according to the situation you are photographing.  If the sky is the main focus, place the horizon on the bottom line. If the ground is the main focus, place the horizon on the top line.

 The rule of thirds was first used in the Renaissance, by painters who wanted to achieve a more realistic style.  Previously, they had placed their subjects in the middle. By placing their subjects according to the rule of thirds, they achieved more balanced paintings, allowing for more realistic settings and backgrounds.  Although this idea started back in the Renaissance, it wasn’t written down until 1783 by Sir Joshua Reynolds, who named it “The Rule of Thirds.”

Sources:

https://digital-photography-school.com/rule-of-thirds/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMjvvltQpmw

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rule_of_thirds