Rule of thirds

The rule of thirds is a "rule of thumb" or guideline which applies to the process of composing visual images such as paintings, photographs and designs.

The photo should be divided into nine equal parts these points then create more tension, energy and interest in the composition than simply centering the subject would.

When photographing or filming it is common to line the body of the picture up with a vertical line, and having the person's or creatures eyes in line with a horizontal one. If filming a moving subject, the same pattern is often followed, with the majority of the extra room being in front of the person or the way they are moving.

The rule of thirds was first written down by John Thomas Smith in 1797. 

The rule of thirds is a concept in video and film production in which the frame is divided into into nine imaginary sections. This creates reference points which act as guides for framing the image.

In most "people shots", the main line of interest is the line going through the eyes. In this shot, the eyes are placed approximately 1/3 of the way down the frame, however it’s not always possible to frame the picture like this.

The most important character is encapsulated in the middle section of the shot like in this shot from the film 'Jackie Brown' by Quentin Tarantino this draws the audiences attention towards the main character and keeps the audience enthralled.

Lauren Gibbens