The Rule of Thirds is one of the most well known rules of composition that most nascent photographers learn during the first few sessions of their photography classes. Most of the new age photographers think that the rule of thirds has grown obsolete and you can achieve good compositions only by aesthetics, and not by logic. But the rule of thirds is still a golden rule that can help inexperienced photographers to capture some pretty compositions.

It is necessary to know a rule before you break it, so that you know its effects and consequences. The rule of thirds says that you should divide your frame into 9 equal parts with the help of 4 imaginary lines. 2 of them running vertically and the other 2 horizontally, as shown in the image on the side. The points of intersection of these 4 lines give you the 4 points of interest and it is said that if you place your subject on these points of interest or on the 4 lines then your photograph would be more interesting than if you place your subject bang on centre. This is a fundamental rule of photography that should be followed regardless if you are using a cheap throwaway camera or a deluxe Sony Alpha 700, the rule stays the same. Like in the picture on the right the bee has been placed on the upper right corner and the picture would not have been this appealing had the bee been in the centre of the frame. It has been scientifically proven that while viewing a picture people’s eyes usually go to these points of interest, hence your subject is more noticeable here. As you grow, you might not need the rule of third but as a beginners rule, the rule of third is very helpful.