Here is a fun way to improve your photographic skills by reading the article and applying what you have learned by completing the assignments. Today we will learn about the “Rule of Thirds”.

The rule of thirds means visually dividing a picture into thirds, both vertically and horizontally. Once you envision these lines, place the main subject close to an intersection of those lines. The division does not have to be exactly equal thirds. It is used as a simple guide to help you place the main subject of your photograph off center to add more interest.

Look at the example photo with and without the lines (Roll mouse over image) and notice how the main subject is close to the area where the lines intersect towards the right bottom corner. This makes the photograph more interesting than placing the bird in the center.

The intersection in which you place your subject is also important. Because of the placement, the bird has plenty of room to “see” in the direction it is looking. If you tried to place the bird in the lower left corner, the photograph would not work.

Remember that these rules are there to help you to create photographs that are interesting. The rules are subjective to what you want to accomplish in creating the “feeling” in a particular photograph. There are times when the rules will help you to accomplish what you are trying to communicate and there are times when you will want to break the rules. Most importantly, be creative and enjoy!

Here is the assignment:

Look at some photographs that you have taken in the past and visualize the thirds rule grid lines. Does the third rule apply to any of the photographs? Are the photographs that utilize the thirds rule more interesting to you?

Now use your camera to take two pictures of the same subject. Center the subject in the first shot and then apply the thirds rule for the second shot. Does the second picture have more visual impact to you? Repeat this process until you can see the difference and you feel comfortable in knowing when to apply the thirds rule to your photography skills in the future.