The Rule of Thirds

Many camera owners nowadays use their cameras to simply point on a subject and click on the capture button without even studying how the image would look like. However, a basic technique known as the Rule of Thirds would surely help those who want to incorporate substance and depth to photographs. You could use any kind of camera that you want. It would not matter if it is a Digital SLR or the disposable ones.

The concept behind the Rule of Thirds is the position of a particular subject. The positioning of a subject in a particular photograph is very important. The common thing done by casual photographers is to place the subject in the center of the picture, which would make it quite mediocre. That is why you must make use of techniques such as the Rule of Thirds to enhance the quality of your pictures.

The first tip is to use a visual aid in order to envision the Rule of Thirds in your mind. To create the idea in your mind, you can use an index card and any kind of pen. Place the card in front of you in a horizontal position. Draw two vertical lines in the card that will divide the page in three equal parts.

Afterward, draw another two lines, horizontal ones this time. You will notice that you have nine rectangles in the card, and the center rectangle serves as your ‘magic box.’ This particular box is the one that you need to focus on when you look into the viewfinder of the camera. It is advisable to avoid placing your subject inside the magic box, but place it along its corners or boarders instead.

Take this situation for example. Imagine a scenario where in you are taking a photo of someone from a medium distance. If you place the face or head of the subject inside the ‘magic box,’ it would leave a considerable amount of empty space above the subject’s head, which would not look good in a photo. Therefore, it is better to set the subject’s head on the top boarder of the magic box that will fill the photo with the subject’s image. This will bring forth a better photo.

Finally, there are other examples of using the Rule of Thirds. Placing the subject on the upper right or left side would create interest not only on the subject but on the background as well. Think of the endless ideas you could create with the use of this technique. Experiment with this rule and you will discover the photographer in you.


LESSON IN LIFE:
"Where do you stand? Stand still and give your best."