The Rule of ThirdsThe Rule of Thirds

What is the Rule of Thirds?

The Rule of Thirds is a general guideline for how to frame shots in photography, video, and film. It also can be used in other 2-dimensional artwork. The main purpose of this rule is to create interesting and aesthetically pleasing images, avoiding the natural tendency to center everything.

In the Rule of Thirds, you divide the shot into three equal columns and three equal rows. That grid should be used as a way to align the objects in your shot. For example:

•If you are shooting a landscape, the boundary between land and sky (or water and sky) should land on one of the horizontal grid lines.

•When your shot has a large vertical object, it should be aligned with one of the vertical grid lines.

•In a close-up shot, a subject's eyes should be aligned with the upper horizontal grid line.

•Items of importance should fall on one of the 4 points of intersection.

Of course, sometimes rules are made to be broken. You must use your best judgment and creativity when framing your shots.

Demonstrating the Rule of Thirds