Lesson 19ª

 

 

 

 

 

   

Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds is one of the basic rules and most used by photographers in their images (either consciously or unconsciously). It's a simple rule but will allow them to dramatically enhance your images. It is widely used in paint as well.

What is the rule of thirds? The rule says that the image is divided by 2 imaginary horizontal lines (equally apart) and 2 imaginary vertical line (also with the same apart). So the image is divided into 9 equal parts.

The 4 points of intersection of the lines, called strengths, is where you should place the item or items, most important of the photo. The other option is to put it on the lines.

Why is it good to apply this rule? Because it is proven that the human eye tends to look at certain parts of the image. Using this rule we make sure that the viewer look at the most important thing in the picture. It also helps create a more dynamic and interesting and creates some tension in the picture.

There are certain points or lines that are stronger than others. For example, if a single element are photographing then the strongest point where to locate it in the upper left.

But if there are many elements point to the upper left is the weakest point and the bottom right is the strongest.

In the case of the portraits is generally align the eyes with a horizontal line. If you are photographing a single person then it should align with the upper horizontal line, but if there are several subjects you can align with the 2.

In this picture you can see the lines (imaginary of course) that divide the picture into 9 equal parts. This is a picture with a single model so I put the eyes, they really are the focus in the upper horizontal line. And not only are supported on the top line but the intersection of horizontal and vertical lines are given is their eyes too.

This makes the first thing we look in the photo are the eyes and the look of the model. Ultimately, that's what you want to display.

Remember that not knowing the rule of thirds when taking a photo is not the same as deciding to ignore it when photographed.