ABSTRACT
Often we place our subjects in the center of our photographs. It’s an easy place to put the subject and easy to get the subject in focus. However, in terms of creating a compelling and interesting composition, the center of the photo is not a great place for the subject. To start thinking about other places to put the subject there’s a concept that goes by a couple names: the Rule of Thirds or Power Points. The idea is to divide your photograph into thirds both horizontally and vertically. It’s like laying a tic-tactoe board over your image. This creates four intersecting points: top left, top right, bottom left, and bottom right. Each of these points is a “power point,” meaning they’re good places to consider for placing your subject. Use these points as a compositional aid. The idea is to give you a rough idea of where to consider placing your subject. When you’ve chosen a subject and are selecting a composition keep the power points in mind. Move the camera around to place your subject near those four areas and see what looks good to you. In most cases one of those areas will be a better place for your subject than the center of the photo.
