Rule of thirds

THIS age-old composition trick is the perfect place to start when you are thinking of placing subjects off-centre to add balance and dynamism. The rule of thirds works by splitting each side of the frame into three equal lengths, then adding horizontal and vertical lines that partition the frame into nine areas. The key areas are the lines themselves, which are perfect for placing the main elements of the scene.

Position your main subject on one of these lines, then use others for important elements such as the horizon, secondary focal points or strong vertical lines. The other key areas in the grid are the four line intersections, which give optimal positions for the main focal point.