Rule of ThirdsCreating Effective Images

4 key composition techniques

Rule of Thirds Fill the frame Use an original point of view Think “simple”

1. Rule of Thirds

Imagine two lines dividing the photo into equal sections, like a tic-tac-toe board

Position the subject on one of these lines Creates tension (energy) and interest Drew Keller, StoryGuide (YouTube)

When we look at an image, our eyes tend to naturally go to these four areas of the frame.

Place points of interest on the lines or intersections.

2. Fill the Frame

Keep elements that add to your picture

Remember, the environment can add to your picture or it can detract

3. Point of view

Different from what everyone else has

If you’re the photographer … lie down on the ground, stand on a table… get in close. Change your perspective!

4. Keep it simple

• Focus on one subject (focal point)• Have a simple background• Place the subject slightly off-center• Have a distinct foreground, middle ground and background • Be sure that the things in the photo are only those that you want the viewer to see

Point of view

Don’t use the same picture everyone else has

If you’re the photographer – change angle: lie down, stand on a table

Visual concepts: aspect ratio

Visual Concepts: Size, Rez•Mac/Windows monitor differences

• Rez/Gamma•Resolution – pixel density (72 dpi v 300 dpi)•Lossy

• GIF (256 colors)• JPG (up to millions)

•Lossless• TIFF, PNG

Visual concepts: alt, title

Credits

Kathy E Gill @kegill CCL – share and share alike, non-

commercial