In landscape shots, it's common to position the horizon along the centre of the frame, but this can give the photo a "split in two" feel. Instead, place it along one of the horizontal lines. Try to include another interesting object, and position it according to the rule of thirds. This provides an "anchor", a natural focal point for the scene. It's a good idea to position people off to one side of the frame. This provides some "breathing space", shows the subject's environment, and stops the photo from looking like a mugshot. We are naturally drawn to people's eyes. Place them at one of the intersections on the rule of thirds grid to give the shot a clear focal point. As with all rules (at least in photography), the rule of thirds doesn't apply in every situation, and sometimes breaking it can result in a much more eye-catching, interesting photo. Experiment with different compositions even if they break the "rules" you've learned. 

 

When composing your image to photograph, using the "The rule of thirds" can be applied to any subject to help with the balance and composition of your image. The rule of thirds is one of the most useful composition techniques in photography, to ensure that the photograph you are going to take is balanced. It is an excellent start to composing your images (and once you've got the hang of it, you can then start breaking the rules). 

 

SO EXACTLY WHAT IS THE RULE OF THIRDS?

The rule of thirds involves mentally dividing up your image using 2 horizontal lines and 2 vertical lines. At the points where these lines intersect, try to place your subject matter. Essentially you are creating a grid to work from. In the image below, important elements (the shed, and the border between the ground and the trees) are positioned along the lines and at the intersections. The idea is that an off-centre composition is more pleasing to the eye and looks more natural than one where the subject is placed right in the middle of the frame. It also encourages you to make creative use of negative space the empty areas around your subject.

 

The concept is that by placing main elements and subjects at the power points would create a more balanced photograph and engage the viewer more readily. The photograph would be more aesthetically pleasing and easy on the eye. We are naturally drawn to people in photo's. Place them at one of the intersections on the rule of thirds grid to give the shot a clear focal point.

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BREAKING THE RULES

As with all rules (at least in photography), the rule of thirds doesn't apply in every situation, and sometimes breaking it can result in a much more eye-catching, interesting photo. Experiment and test out different compositions even if they go against any "rules" you've learned.

However, learn to use the rule of thirds effectively before you try to break it - that way you can be sure you're doing so in order to get a better composition, rather than just for the sake of it.

 

 

It is tempting to think that the best photograph is one where the subject fills the frame, however in some circumstances, by employing the idea that "less is more", you can capture a stunning image. In your photographs, the will is a "positive space" which tends to be your main subject. Though often we forget to pay attention to the space around the subject. Negative space is the area which surrounds the main subject in your photo. This can be difficult to understand, so have a look at the image I took when in Lima, Peru.  The hang-glider and tree make up the positive space, while the sky is the negative space. I also considered my rule of thirds when capturing this image. Negative space is a concept that's been used in art, design, architecture, and sculpture for hundreds of years. It's equally useful in photography and can be used to turn an average photo into an outstanding one. With a little bit of practice, it can help you look at your photos in a new way, transforming your compositions and producing stunning photos.