Composition and the Rule of Thirds-Is it Just More Math?

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I recently had the thrill of a life time snapping night photos under the northern lights, it was amazing. On that warm fall night the skies where lite up dancing across the horizon in green yellow and red. It was amazing to experience and a bonus to photograph. Did I say it was amazing yet. I will admit it was a challenge to use these same skills looking thru the viewfinder at 2am under the aurora and stars. These composition tips can make a difference when it's a once in a life time photo-op.

see more northern lights photos here

Learn about “Training Your Eye” to recognize how to create an interesting photo
It’s all about composition and how using simple geometry can help make it more interesting
How you frame or compose the scene is an important factor when it comes to creating an appealing photo
Just because you point your camera at Lake Louis Banff doesn’t guarantee a “WoW” shot."

Use a Few Simple Techniques to Help you Shoot like a Pro

Using the “Rule of 3rds” is a sure fire way to give your photos instant appeal
It’s an easy visualization aide you can use to help align composition
While looking thru the viewfinder many cameras have an X’s and O’s type game grid pattern over the viewfinder

Use these grid lines to help compose your horizon and foreground. If you don’t have the grid you can visualize these lines as you look thru your viewfinder
It is also important to have a level photo, use these same lines to help keep your photos straight by lining up the left and right corners of the grid lines with the horizon or foreground it has an appealing affect on first impressions

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The way you Compose your Scene can Make or Break the Shot

Roll your mouse over the image to see how the rule of 3rds can make a difference

Example #1 the horizon is placed in the top 3^rd of the grid

Example #2 the horizon is placed in the bottom 3rd of the grid

First Impression is Everything - "Rule of 3rds" Works

It's more appealing to the eye
The viewer isn't wondering about what got cut off above or below
Creates balance

Sometimes you need to "Break the Rules"

Place your subject outside of the grid lines
It can create interest with a unique perspective

Example #3 Exceptions to the Rule

Use your Creative Eye to Break the Rules

Water scenes where you capture a mirror image reflection
When the moon and star, fireworks or clouds are the main interest in the sky
Or when you want your kayak nose in the shot

Put these Simple Tips to Use

When I am out shooting I use the rule of thirds but I will evaluate the scene for a complimentary perspective, then I will use the grid for composition but maybe a little above or a little below the 1/3 lines..... whatever works best
to create interest
Get out there and practice, it helps train the eye into looking for interesting compositions
Review your photos to see what worked and what didn't for the next shoot

Article and Photos by Mark McCulloch/Photopaddler.com