Rule of thirds

A subject or horizon is placed near a third-division line or intersection.

Visual traits

• Third-division zones
• A subject near an intersection
• Space remaining around the subject

Expected changes

• The subject is more likely to move away from center
• Its proportion to surrounding space is more likely to be legible

Definition

It divides the frame into three parts in each direction and places a subject, horizon, or gaze near a division line or intersection. It differs from centered and symmetrical composition.

In more detail

It can organize the proportion of subject to surrounding space and establish a destination for the eye. Subject, medium, viewpoint, and lighting remain separately selectable.

Includes

• Placement of a subject or horizon relative to third-division lines or intersections

Excludes

• Placement based only on the exact center
• Mirrored placement on both sides

What this does not imply

• A particular subject or medium
• A particular viewpoint or perspective
• A particular lighting or color treatment

Variability

Whether a subject sits on a line or near an intersection, and which line holds the horizon, depends on the image content.

Usage

• Place a subject or horizon near third-division lines or intersections
• Specify subject and viewpoint separately

Distinguish similar expressions

• Use symmetrical composition when the two sides should mirror each other

Typical uses

• Place a person or animal near an intersection
• Place a landscape horizon on the upper or lower third line

Possible failure modes

• The subject gathers at center without intent
• The relation between subject and divisions is not legible