2.2 Rule of thirds (1 min.)-2

The rule of thirds holds that you can divide your image in horizontal and vertical thirds and compose by using this imaginary grid of nine rectangles. Rarely is it interesting to put your subject in the center; often it's more dynamic to set the subject on the left or right third, leaving space in the middle for action. Space in the upper and lower thirds allows the eye to wander pleasantly and discover details:

A classic composition strategy is to center faces and objects of interest where the grid lines intersect. Natasha has used the rule of thirds along with effective framing and selective focus (see depth of field) to create an attractive double portrait below:

 [IMAGE: Ola and Aldese, 2008 Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Natasha Watts ]

The rule of thirds is often a successful guideline--but not always.