Rule of thirds - Landscape photography

March 07, 2013

A Simple photography tip.

One of the most important things in photography is finding an appropriate subject to take a photo of.

Without it, there really is no point in pressing that button. We need to find some sort of interest within

the scene, whether it’s a landscape photo, portrait, documentary or action sports photograph, we need

something to pop and get our attention.

The rule of thirds is probably the most basic of photography rules you will hear of. When I first picked

up a camera I had no idea about what composition was. I was happily clicking away, like

many people do, not paying attention to straight horizons or landmarks and where they were position in my frame. With a

little knowledge and understanding you can easily improve any of your photographs.

This is something everyone will be able to benefit from, especially with all the rave around

social media such as instagram and facebook.

If you look at the majority of my photos you will notice the main focal point is either to the left or right.

It’s very rarely in the centre. Below you will see an image taken at Rainbow bay on the Gold Coast.

Fortunately for me the weather in Queensland has been washing up all kinds of debris on the oceans

doorstep. I drove past this location and quickly doubled back. Set up my tripod and started to find a

good composition. You will notice the branch is on the axis of the two adjoining lines. “But Jon, there are

no lines”? Well let me make it a little easier for you. Scroll down a little further and I have drawn the lines

on there for you. You will notice there are 3 sections to the photo, both horizontally and vertically. IE the

rule of thirds. The idea behind this is to try and place key focal points at the intersections of those lines,

or nearby or in.

For Horizons we try and place them either at the top third or bottom third (may vary depending on the interest in your foreground or sky).

If your sky lacks interest and colour, then have a look at your foreground. Does it contain a lot of texture?

Now don’t get me wrong, rules are meant to be broken. You don’t have to take all photos like this, your

scene may be better shot on centre, but it all depends on what will help the viewer draw their attention into a key element of the photo.

So the next time you are taking a photo with your smart phone, try and practice this technique. You will

instantly notice a difference. In fact, if you’re on instagram or twitter. #jonwrightphoto @jonwrightphoto

and I will check them out.