Monday, 15 September 2008

The Rule Of Thirds


The rule of thirds is the perfect way for taking camera shots. The eye line is usually around the top horizontal line while the rest of the body is below in the remaining six squares. There are a lot of different ways of taking camera shots. For example there is the 'over the shoulder shot' and the 'head straight on'. The focus point of the shot is normally where, the crossing of two lines are.

The photograph to the right demonstrates the application of the rule of thirds. The hand and face sit at the horizontal line dividing the lower third of the photo from the upper two-thirds. The persons torso sits at the intersection of two lines, sometimes called a power point. Points of interest in the photo don't have to actually touch one of these lines to take advantage of the rule of thirds.

The application of the rule of thirds to photographs is considered by many to make them more pleasing and professional-looking. The rule of thirds can be applied by lining up subjects with the guiding lines, placing the horizon on the top or bottom line instead of the center, or allowing features in the photograph to flow from section to section.

1 comment:

Ms Flavell said...

This is a good summary of some of the key framing ideas for a good shot. Well done. When it helps to add a picture, try to find one, or create one as it will make a difference when you come back to these ideas after a break.