Derrick Shelton
December 17 ,2010
Rules are meant to be broken and ignoring this one doesn’t mean your images are necessarily unbalanced or uninteresting. However a wise person once told me that if you intend to break a rule you should always learn it first to make sure your breaking of it is all the move effective.
The rule of thirds is image breaking an image down into thirds, horizontal and vertical, basically nine parts. With the grid in mind the rule of thirds now identifies for important parts of the image. Not only this but it also gives you four lines that are also useful positions for elements in your photo. If you place points of interest in the intersections or along lines, your photo becomes more balanced.
By positioning key aspects of a landscape or points of a geometric shape you can help create a balance composition. Using diagonals lines can be a very effective way of drawing the eye of those viewing an image. Frame the shot by adding interest to the other part of the edges of an image. Remember to position key points of interest.
Position-place it in a prominent position. Focus-learn to use a depth of field to blur out other aspects in front or behind. Blur-play with slower shutter speeds if your main subject is still and everything is moving. Size-make your focal points large to help make it prominent.
Combination of all elements can work well together. Don’t confuse the viewer with too many competing focal points, which might overwhelm the main focal point. Secondary points of interest can be helpful to lead the eye but too many strong ones will just clutter and confuse.
