The Rule of Thirds is a principle of composition used for centuries by artists and photographers. The underlying principle is easy to understand and use.

Using the Rule of Thirds places the main subject off center and away from the center of the frame. As a result, photos can look more dynamic and interesting.

The rule envisions two horizontal and two vertical lines trisecting an image with four intersecting points.

You place your main subject where the lines intersect rather than centered in the frame. For example, placing the horizon on an upper or lower line helps create a well-composed landscape photo. For portraits, placing the person where lines intersect vertically produces a more compelling photo.

A Rule of Thirds grid is built into some digital cameras. It can be turned on and viewed on the LCD. The focusing screen on some Digital Single Lens Reflex cameras can be replaced with specialized screens, such as a Rule of Thirds grid to aid with composition.

Use the Rule as a composition guide when taking a photos. If you don’t achieve the look just right using the camera, apply the principle when cropping the image.

Visit our Rule of Thirds Gallery for examples of photos with stunning composition.