The third rule is a foundation of the image composition, but that does not mean that you always have to follow them.
When taking pictures, be it with a cell phone or a camera, there are many rules that optimize your understanding of the image composition and make you better photographers.
One of them is the third rule-a foundation in photography that everyone should know. Not only to use them, but also to actively break them.
What is the third rule?
It is actually not a rule in the classic sense that you always have to stick to, but rather a recommended guideline.
The third rule in photography is a simple way to make your photos more interesting and balanced.
- Imagine that you share your picture, as can be seen above, into nine equally large rectangles by drawing two horizontal and two vertical lines. These lines share the picture into third, both horizontally and vertically.
- The trick is to place important elements of your photos along these lines or at the intersections of the lines.
- If you photograph a landscape, you could align the horizon along one of the horizontal lines. Or if you take a portrait, place the face at one of the intersections.
This technique helps you to make the image more harmonious and to specifically steer the viewer's gaze. It is a simple rule that can quickly upgrade your photos, regardless of whether you use a cell phone or camera.
The third rule in use. (Image source: Duy Linh Dinh/Gamestar Tech)
The third rule can and should also be broken
You don't have to keep yourself meticulously to this rule. There are many image compositions in which it offers to place the motif in the middle or on the edge, such as in photos in the square 1-to-1 format.
So you give your motif "space to breathe" or can tell a story.
Another "trap" in which you could step through the third rule is too much empty space in your photos if this was not the intention.
Then it can make sense to place your motif in your photo so that more space is filled out - gladly in the middle.
A central placement of your motif can also look like a highlight that automatically directs the viewer's eyes. This is particularly effective when you work with escape lines.
On the left you can see a photo that works better with a mid -emphasized composition because lines lead to the motif in the middle. On the right you can see an example in which as much space as possible should be taken from the motif. The third rule hardly plays a role in such photos. (Image source: Duy Linh Dinh/Gamestar Tech)
You see, there are many different ways to not only use the third rule, but also to break actively. It is only important that you know them.
This brings you a step closer not only to take your camera or cell phone, but to consciously take pictures.
