How do you use the rule of thirds to create balanced and engaging photos and videos?

Turn on the grid in your camera settings. You only need to do it once, but you'll never take photos the same way again. It's not a golden rule that has to be strictly followed all the time - but when you're in the moment and you have to capture something, it's a very intuitive and handy tool for setting up a pleasing shot.

In my work, I consistently apply the rule of thirds to craft visually engaging and balanced photos and videos. This rule acts as a guide where I mentally divide the frame into nine equal sections using two horizontal and two vertical lines. I place the most important elements of the composition where these lines intersect or along the lines themselves. This technique not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also guides the viewer’s eye through the image, creating a more dynamic interaction than centering the subject would. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that elevates the quality of visual storytelling.

While the rule of thirds is a fantastic starting point for creating balanced compositions, breaking it can often lead to even more compelling visuals. I occasionally place my subjects slightly off the intersections or lines to inject a sense of tension or unexpectedness into my photos and videos. This approach can evoke more emotion or highlight unique perspectives that might be lost in a more conventional framing. It’s about understanding the rule thoroughly and then knowing when to deviate to tell the story in a more impactful way. Breaking the rule of thirds can sometimes be a deliberate choice to enhance the narrative.

It's important to not just focus on the subject of the photograph or image, but also any empty space. Playing around with the importance you give to the canvas, I find, is a great way to practice this rule.

For sure it can be a handy device to try , so I’ll try a high horizon then a low horizon when I’m composing a drawing or taking a snap on my phone . I like to let what I'm actually working with dictate how I arrange it , so I’m not mostly not actually measuring thirds , more fitting in what I want to focus on or cropping out what I don’t .

To enhance the rule of thirds, I integrate additional compositional techniques that complement this guideline. For instance, I pay attention to leading lines that can guide the eye towards the intersection points, adding depth and direction to the frame. I also consider the balance of elements, ensuring that the visual weight across the thirds contributes to a harmonious overall image. Sometimes, I experiment with the rule by adjusting the placement slightly to capture more dynamic or emotionally resonant scenes. It's about refining the rule to suit the specific context and intention behind each shot, making every composition not just balanced, but also compelling and unique.