The Rule of Thirds is a photographic composition that divides the sphere of the lens into thirds, so we get nine pieces and four grid lines, both horizontally and vertically.
How do I use it? You can use it by placing the focal point of the shot on one of the intersections in the grid. This is the rule in which we have four intersection points and four grid lines along which the composition of a balanced image is made possible. A shot can be taken by using a single point of intersection, or sometimes two or more, to cover the essential elements of an image.
It’s the easiest way to capture attractive shots professionally. You can have this feature on your tablet and mobile phones. Before using it, you must learn more about its use and functions, which you would surely like to know. So shall we?
Let’s dive into it.
How to Use the Rule of Thirds
The composition of a photograph can be simplified by using this rule. Moreover, many people use it easily to soothe their instincts for photography. Here I will guide you on how to take amazing pictures and to instigate yourself to be a photographer.
Let’s start.
Using the Rule of Thirds’ grid in Camera: First of all, grab a camera, learn about its settings for the Rule of Thirds, and activate it through the menu. You can also use its manual. You can use this setting on your tablet and mobile phone to compose a picture. All you need to do is discover it and practice it.
Make a well-balanced shot: Place the elements of the object on the points where the lines intersect. To have a balanced shot, you must capture the image with its elements at the intersection points.
Focus on the Main Points of the Subject: The main points of the subjects must be focused on for a perfect picture. The focal points can be more than one or two and should be at intersections and along grid lines.
Practice as much as you can: Visit the fields and attractive areas where you can practice by capturing amazing shots. As you know, practice makes a man perfect. You will soon be able to remember these nine pieces of the lens.
Here are some of the best photos taken using the Rule of Thirds.
How to break the Rule of Thirds
Now that you have learned to create unique shots using the Rule of Thirds, it will soon be ingrained in your mind, and now it’s time to have fun breaking the rules. How can it be possible?
Sometimes you can get a breathtaking shot by using a different composition or, as I like, by breaking the Rule of Thirds. So you can avoid the Rule of Thirds when it comes to a more robust composition.
Here you have some tips whenever it comes to deviating from the Rule of Thirds;
Fill the Frame: When the parts of the image are not evenly distributed in the frame, and the subject cannot complete the frame, you have to avoid this rule. To get a balanced image, capture the image by making it into two equal sections.
Symmetrical Image: If there is symmetry in all four dimensions of the image, then it’s better to place a focal point in the middle of the shot and get amazing shots.
Minute Subject: Sometimes, the object of the image is too minute to capture at the intersection points. Then it’s better to deviate from the rule, place the object in the middle, and get a shot.
Different compositions: Try using different photographic compositions and enhance your creativity to take breathtaking shots.
The Functions of the Rule of Thirds
Balanced Shot: As a result of the Rule of Thirds, your lens gives you intersection points or gridlines, which help you get a balanced shot on the thirds. Doing this makes the image more beautiful and draws the viewer in more.
Static Dynamism: The object at its centre seems static. Hence, there is no scope to develop more interest by wandering through the image. But an object at intersection points tells its own story and seems dynamic with its negative space on two-thirds. Here, a viewer has a landscape to wander around.
The emphasis in Photography: The image using the Rule of Thirds gains the viewer’s attention because, scientifically, it’s confirmed that an object placed on the third part of the sphere grabs more attention than one placed in the centre. Every element of the shot tells its story and what to focus on.
Quick Guide for Using the Rule of Third
The use of the Rule of Thirds is easy and convenient. Despite this, there are some tips you must know if you do photography as a profession or for aesthetic pleasure.
Let’s discuss the following;
Interest: A photographer must know about his points of interest. He must know what he wants to capture, what areas to focus on, and what details to emphasize. You must ask yourself these questions before taking a shot. It will motivate you to become a better photographer.
Intentions: What’s the story in your head to put on the shot? You must know yours before taking a shot. It must be clear which point to place on the intersection point of the Rule of Thirds.
Sense: According to the Rule of Thirds, your photographic composition should be sensible. Your shot must have the ability to tell the world about your dimensions.
Conclusion
Detailed information about the Rule of Thirds is provided here. If you want to practice it right now, you can do it. So grab the camera and reveal your talent.