Composition rule of thirds is a key one and here are 14 others:
1. Rule of Thirds
2. Frame in a Frame
3. Symmetrical & Asymmetrical Symmetry
4. Leading Lines
5. Diagonals & Triangles
6. Patterns & Textures
7. Rule of Odds
8. Fill the Frame
9. Negative Space
10. Golden Ratio
11. Repetition
12. Lean in (space to go)
13. Juxtaposition
14. Viewpoint
15. Simplicity
Yes, we must follow the rules! Actually, those "rules" are just good advice based on years of observation. Like, "Keep your eye on the ball," "Keep both hands on the wheel," "Look both ways before crossing the street."
Rules were not made to be broken.
sxrich wrote:
I did a post on composition/rule of thirds on a different site and I was disappointed at the pure disdain in mentioning the term "rules"! Responses like "rules were made to be broken", "I refuse to be restricted", "I please myself", "My creativity will be restrained"......It surprised me how little people knew about composition approaches as well as the desire to incorporate. I use rule of thirds quite often, even in portraiture. I would like to see images from others where a particular rule of composition is utilized. Here are a few - rule of thirds
I did a post on composition/rule of thirds on a di... (
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I don’t like to go by “the rules” so I have set my camera on auto mode. Ha Ha.
The "rules" will give one a better probability of getting an appealing shot,
as opposed to just raising the camera to one's eye and shooting.
Yes, the rules can actually be broken at times to create a pleasing composition. One does not have to adhere to them. They are basically a starting point.
When I learned the rule of thirds decades ago my photographs suddenly improved. I dont always use it but it is the most common composition rule I use.
Chuck
What is interesting about the "rule of thirds", for me, is why it often/sometimes aids in enhancing a compositiom. I find it useful in at least considering it when composing, without ever thinking of it as "required", and not truly understanding why it helps compositions some of the time.
On a different tact, the fact that bringing up the topic often seems to result in debate, over how to phrase the use of this concept, might be a suitable topic in some psychological forum.
SalvageDiver wrote:
I am reading a book by Michael Freeman titled "On Composition". In that book I don't recall him ever using the term "rules of ...". Rather, he refers to composition as 'elements of photographic design', with composition being one of the many elements that the photographer controls to create an impactful image. Calling them "rules" only invites arguments about rules being rigid, when in fact various composition designs of a scene can illicit different but impactful responses on the viewer. Changing how you refer to compositional design might allow you to make your point without starting a side argument unrelated to your message.
I am reading a book by Michael Freeman titled &quo... (
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You made a really good point! "Rule of expressing Rules of Composition". LOL! Geez, I need to be "woke" about a term that's been around for years as to not offend. Somehow, I find it immature. Maybe participation trophies should be given to participants of photography competitions. I will never use the term "Leading Line" again! Maybe "Birthing Line" would be less offensive. I'm thinking we should implement photography "Safe Zones" also...I give you credit for attempting to elevate your work. I'd like to see a pic illustrating one of your "compositional elements"
sxrich wrote:
I did a post on composition/rule of thirds on a different site and I was disappointed at the pure disdain in mentioning the term "rules"! Responses like "rules were made to be broken", "I refuse to be restricted", "I please myself", "My creativity will be restrained"......It surprised me how little people knew about composition approaches as well as the desire to incorporate. I use rule of thirds quite often, even in portraiture. I would like to see images from others where a particular rule of composition is utilized. Here are a few - rule of thirds
I did a post on composition/rule of thirds on a di... (
show quote)
There are no rules in photography except those that you set for yourself.
When you follow the rules, you are a photographer , when you break the rules you are an artist.
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