2mdman

Came across this article on shutterbug. Interesting idea.

https://www.shutterbug.com/content/composition-tips-pro-says-“use-golden-spiral”-forget-about-rule-thirds-video

rjaywallace Loc: Wisconsin

Or...you could actually think about the setting, lighting, subject matter and how you plan to use the shot and follow whichever one is most appropriate. No one-size-fits-all.

2mdman

What you mention would be the first things you would want to do. I think applying either the thirds or spiral rules is usually the last thing I think of.

rjaywallace Loc: Wisconsin

Sorry, my response may have seemed abrupt but wasn’t intended that way. What many refer to as “rules” are just a series of guidelines you can use as resources, in different situations. If you followed the same “rule” for every photograph, all your photos would quickly look the same. I’m sure that isn’t your intent. The composition “guidelines” include: the rule of thirds, the spiral composition rule, the rule of leading lines, color and design rules, etc. It is a good practice to get in the habit of considering which, if any, applies to the shot you are about to take. And afterwards, think about the result - would a different choice have been better? Is there still time to re-shoot with one or more other choices?

bpulv Loc: Buena Park, CA

It is a good thing I already know about the golden spiral from physics because if I didn't, I would be lost. The guy in the video talks so fast that I can't understand or absorb a word he is saying. A person who doesn't know what the golden spiral is would still not know after watching that video.

repleo Loc: Boston

There is a Golden Spiral crop overlay in PS. It is hard to vizualize the Golden Spiral when you are taking the picture without a lot of practice, but sometimes I will use the overlay to explore options when cropping. You need to cycle through all the orientations but sometimes it pays off. I find it particularly useful for small family group shots like with a baby.

BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA

Et cetera: