Have you ever wondered how the shots you see on the big screen or on company websites are so inviting and dynamically interesting? There are obviously many factors that go into making a great final product, but one of the most important rules to follow when shooting is the “rule of thirds.” This rule will increase the quality of your shots by leaps and bounds. If you are even thinking about stepping foot into the video production world, you need to understand this concept.
The rule of thirds has been around for quite some time and has been extensively studied and applied in many different forms of media. Canvas based art being the first form, then photography, and now videography. When you understand the rule you will find yourself applying it to anything that is encompassed by a frame.
How Do I Use The Rule of Thirds?
Imagine that you cut up your frame into a tic-tac-toe board so that there are nine segments sectioned off within the shot. The goal is to avoid putting the subject in the center slot. Instead try to position your subject in such a way that they will be intersected by one of the segments that divide your shot.
One of the many reasons why the rule of thirds works so well is that it adds tension to the photo. This is accomplished through setting the subject apart from the background and allowing the eye to discover both, as well as how they interact.
When first learning and experimenting with the rule of thirds try to figure out what the points of interest are in your shot and then try to place them in a location that works within this rule. This may be difficult at first, but over time it will become almost second nature. You will no longer need to actively think about how you will frame everything.
Once you have seen how the rule of thirds works you will wonder how you ever lived without it. By following this guideline you will be well on your way to creating intriguing shots.
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