Rule of Thirds Digital Photography

Rule of Thirds One of the most popular 'rules' in photography is the Rule of Thirds. It works like this: Imaginary lines are drawn dividing the image into thirds both horizontally and vertically. You place important elements of your composition where these lines intersect.

The Rule of Thirds The idea of the Rule of Thirds was first written down by John Thomas Smith in 1797 in his book Remarks on Rural Scenery. John Thomas Smith was an English painter and engraver. This is one of his engravings.

Rule of Thirds The Rule of Thirds is applied by aligning a subject with the guide lines and their intersection points, placing the horizon on the top or bottom line, or allowing linear features in the image to flow from section to section.

Rule of Thirds If you crop a photo on your cell phone or in Photoshop you will see a grid that incorporates the use of the Rule of Thirds.

Rule of Thirds The Rule of Thirds creates a kind of Asymmetrical Balance. In Asymmetrical Balance, elements are not equal along a centered line. The two sides are not identical, but differ from one another. However, the elements are arranged so that there is a sense of balance. Before After the rule of thirds

Before and After the Rule of Thirds

Before and After the Rule of Thirds

Examples of the Rule of Thirds

Examples of the Rule of Thirds

Examples of the Rule of Thirds

Examples of the Rule of Thirds

Examples of the Rule of Thirds

Your Assignment… Break up into your computer # group of 3 & check out the appropriate camera. Take turns each taking 5-8 photos that demonstrate the use of the Rule of Thirds. Using the USB cable in the camera box upload 5 photos that you took. DO NOT disturb any classroom activities Finish the images in Photoshop create at least 2 photos in black & white. Manipulate the brightness, contrast, colors, levels, etc. Create compositions that use unique thought and creativity. Delete the photos from the camera when you are done. SAVE AS: Rule of Thirds 1, 2, 3, 4, 5