In photography there are three rules of thirds (perhaps more) that photographers frequently use to create a more visually pleasing image to view. Our eyes tend to find solace in images that are asymetrically balanced by off-setting from center colors, subjects, or focal points. Our eyes like to take breaks from studying the subject of the image, and if that subject is absolute center, when our eyes become confused and stressed if equal portions of “white space” (in the form of a blurred area of the images, or area of uniform color) exist on either side. This white space also helps to trap our eyes back on to the subject.
1. *FRAME* RULE OF THIRDS
This rule of “Thirds” is best represented by the grid over the photo. The grid is sectioned off into equal parts by two horizontal, and two vertical lines. The red intersections identify the areas to place the focal point of the subject. (e.g. faces, a ball, etc.)
By using this rule of thirds we can also apply perspective to the action. In the case of the goalie above, we know from our experience that the hockey action is coming from the right. By placing the goalie’s face (which our eyes are naturally drawn to) in one of the four zones, we add drama to the photo (when is the action going to get there?). Also, by placing the image focus off-center we place all the potential “distractions” to one side of the photo. The result is that if our eyes do get distracted, they only do so on one side of the image; making the image more enjoyable to look at.
2. *FOCAL* RULE OF THIRDS
The Focal Rule of Thirds has two applications. Either place the focal area of the image in the *nearest* 1/3 of the photo (if the image has depth), or make sure the subject of the images is at least includes 1/3 of the total image. In the image below-left, you’ll notice the fence post in focus is in the nearest 1/3 of the frame to the observer. The image on the right also incorporates that rule of thirds (in the closest 1/3 of the frame), but also includes the rule by having the flower and bee taking up 1/3 of the total frame.
3. *HORIZON* RULE OF THIRDS
The Horizon Rule of Thirds attempts to balance the photo space with 2/3 of the horizon that has them most interest, and 1/3 remaining landscape. For example, an image with a thunderstorm, intriguing clouds, or a dazzling sunset, 2/3 the image would be sky with 1/3 land. If the landscape is the focal point, place 2/3 land/water and 1/3 sky. This rule can also be applied using color; such as the example below-left.
