Using the Rule of Thirds: National Geographic Photography

PRODUCED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

Don’t put your main subject or subjects in the middle of your photograph. It’s static. It’s boring. It’s not nearly as dramatic as it could be.

Instead, use the rule of thirds to help take more interesting photographs. Divide your frame into thirds (horizontally and vertically). Where those lines intersect are the best places to put your subjects.

Don’t put your main subject or subjects in the middle of your photograph. It’s static. It’s boring. It’s not nearly as dramatic as it could be. Instead, use the rule of thirds to help take more interesting photographs.

Watch the video below for a more in-depth explanation about following the rule of thirds, hosted by National Geographic Photographer Michael Yamashita.

This helpful tip is just one of hundreds of techniques found in the course National Geographic Masters of Photography, available now to stream on The Great Courses Plus.