COMPOSITION RULES

Within photography, all sorts of composition rules have been devised. Placing the main subject in a specific spot in the image almost automatically makes a photo more interesting to look at. The best known and the most widely used compositions tend to adhere to one of the following rules.

Central composition

Central compositions are mostly used when, as a photographer, you are trying to emphasize the symmetry of something. This involves placing the main subject in a central position (usually in the middle of the image), supported by all other elements in the image. Especially from the air, this can lead to interesting symmetrical images.

The rule of thirds

With the rule of thirds, you draw two lines both horizontally and vertically at 1/3 and 2/3 of the width and height of the photo, respectively. This forms a grid that consists of 9 compartments, each of which is the same size. The underlying idea of the rule of thirds is to place the most important elements of a photograph on one of the lines, preferably at an intersection(!). Working with the rule of thirds creates space on one side of the image, which focuses the viewer's attention even more specifically on the subject.

The golden ratio

The rules of the golden ratio are very similar to the rule of thirds. Again, the image is divided into 9 areas, but not into 9 equal areas. This is because the distribution of the golden ratio is based on a mathematical calculation in which the ratio of lines 1 and 2 must be equal to the ratio of lines 2 and 3. In this regard, this ratio is equal to the Greek number phi and is approximately 1.6.

The golden ratio as described above is actually a simplified representation of the actual golden ratio. In fact, this actual golden ratio is a spiral that runs across the entire picture. If this golden ratio is used properly, the viewer follows the line from the beginning to the end point. The main subject of the photograph is located at the end point.

Diagonal method

Sometimes it is difficult to use the rule of thirds or the golden ratio. Often people then divert to the diagonal method. In this methodology, you place the important elements of the photograph on the lines and intersections of the imaginary diagonal lines. These lines are drawn at a 45-degree angle from the corners of the image. You will see then it also runs from the viewer along the diagonal lines.

Leading lines

The rule of thirds, golden ratio and the diagonal method all use imaginary lines to determine the correct composition. However, it is also very common to use existing image elements. Examples are roads, bridges, rivers, coastlines etc. By using lines it is possible to direct the view to a certain part of the photo. Of course, each type of line (horizontal, vertical, meandering, etc.) also has its own effect on the photo. However, it is important when using lines that the line runs towards the main subject of the photo and not away from it. See the example below where the viewer is led to the centre of the picture via the path.