Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds divides an image into nine equal parts with two horizontal and two vertical lines. Placing subjects along these lines, or at the four intersections, produces compositions that feel more dynamic than center-framing.

It's less mathematically precise than the golden ratio, but easier to apply in practice — and widely used in photography, cinematography, and illustration.

Like all composition rules, the rule of thirds is a starting point, not a law. Center-framing can be powerful when used deliberately (think of classic portrait photography). The rule helps you avoid accidentally dull compositions, not produce interesting ones on its own.