The rule of thirds is one of the most essential — and easiest — composition techniques in photography. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to enhance your creative eye, learning to use the rule of thirds can dramatically improve how your photos look and feel.
In this guide, we’ll explain what the rule of thirds is, why it works so well, and how to apply it in real-world photography using any kind of camera, including your phone.
What Is the Rule of Thirds?
The rule of thirds is a composition principle that divides your image into nine equal parts using two equally spaced horizontal lines and two vertical lines. The idea is to place the key elements of your photo along these lines or at the points where they intersect.
Rather than centering your subject, the rule of thirds encourages off-center composition, which feels more natural and dynamic to the human eye.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Your frame is divided into three columns and three rows.
- The four intersection points are where your subject will draw the most visual attention.
- The lines themselves help align important elements like the horizon, buildings, or body parts (like the eyes in a portrait).
Why the Rule of Thirds Works
It’s based on how humans naturally view images:
- We’re drawn to points slightly off-center.
- It adds balance and movement to the frame.
- It makes the photo feel more deliberate and professional.
Centered images can sometimes feel static or flat. Using the rule of thirds introduces a sense of storytelling, especially when the space around the subject contributes to the message.
How to Use the Rule of Thirds
1. Turn On the Grid Lines
Most cameras and smartphone apps offer a setting to display a grid overlay. Turn it on! It’s a simple guide to help you compose your shot using the rule of thirds.
On smartphones:
- iPhone: Settings > Camera > Grid > Toggle ON
- Android: Open camera > Settings > Grid Lines > Select 3×3
2. Position Your Subject on an Intersection Point
Instead of putting your subject in the center:
- Place the subject’s eyes or face on a top intersection point (great for portraits).
- Position a tree, building, or person at one of the side points in landscapes or street photography.
- Align the horizon with the top or bottom horizontal line, depending on whether the sky or the foreground is more important.
3. Use Space to Tell a Story
The empty space in your composition, often called negative space, becomes more powerful when your subject is off-center. It can suggest:
- Movement (especially when space is in front of a moving subject)
- Isolation or calm
- Environment and mood
4. Frame Landscapes with Precision
- Align the horizon with the top third for foreground-focused images (like a field or road).
- Align it with the bottom third if the sky, sunset, or clouds are your main subject.
- Place points of interest like mountains or trees on a vertical third.
5. Apply It to Portraits
Portrait photography benefits greatly from this rule:
- Position the subject’s eyes at the top horizontal line.
- Place the body on one vertical third.
- Use the surrounding space to give the image balance or context.
6. Consider Motion and Direction
For subjects that are moving or looking in a certain direction, leave more space in front of them rather than behind. This gives the viewer a sense of flow and intention.
7. Don’t Forget About Editing
Sometimes you can’t compose perfectly when taking the shot — and that’s okay. You can crop your image afterward to align with the rule of thirds using tools like:
- Lightroom
- Photoshop
- Snapseed
- VSCO
Most editing apps have a crop tool with built-in grid overlays.
When to Break the Rule of Thirds
The rule of thirds is a guide — not a law. Once you’ve mastered it, feel free to break it when the situation calls for something different:
- Symmetry: Perfectly centered shots work great for reflections or architectural symmetry.
- Minimalism: Placing the subject dead center or in an extreme corner can create a strong minimalist composition.
- Abstracts and Patterns: These may benefit from creative framing outside conventional rules.
The key is to be intentional. If you break the rule, do it for a reason, not by accident.
Examples of the Rule of Thirds in Practice
Here are scenarios where the rule of thirds creates stronger photos:
- Landscape: Placing the horizon on the lower third emphasizes a dramatic sky.
- Street Photography: Positioning a walking subject on a side vertical line adds tension and storytelling.
- Food Photography: Arranging the plate on an intersection point allows the utensils or background to complement the frame.
- Pet Photography: Aligning your dog or cat with a third, and leaving negative space, makes the shot more artistic and less like a snapshot.
Advantages of Using the Rule of Thirds
- Makes photos more visually balanced
- Encourages better use of space and background
- Helps tell a more dynamic and engaging story
- Creates a sense of professionalism even with simple subjects
It’s a reliable technique that works in almost every photography style — portraits, landscapes, still life, street, nature, and more.
Final Thought: Learn the Rules to Break Them Well
The rule of thirds is one of the first lessons in photography for a reason — it works. It’s a simple yet powerful way to move beyond snapshots and into more intentional, eye-catching imagery.
As you shoot, ask yourself:
- Where is the subject placed?
- Does the negative space help or distract?
- Can I use a third to improve balance?
With time and practice, you’ll find yourself using the rule of thirds instinctively — and knowing exactly when to break it.