Compositions using the Rule of Thirds

Text and photos by Heather Cline 

Bison and birds, Yellowstone National Park

Over the years, I’ve covered a range of topics on composition and design, but this time I’m going back to basics—taking a closer look at one rule at a time. The rule of thirds is one of the most widely taught—and widely used—compositional tools in photography. At its core, it’s a way to structure your image for visual balance and viewer engagement. The concept is simple: divide your frame into thirds both horizontally and vertically, creating a grid of nine equal parts. Where those lines intersect are known as “power points”—natural focal zones that draw the viewer’s eye. 

Why It Works

Human vision tends to gravitate toward these intersection points rather than the center of the frame. By placing your subject off-center—along one of the grid lines or at an intersection—you create tension, movement, and interest. This approach often feels more dynamic than a centered composition, which can sometimes appear static or overly symmetrical.

Green-crowned Brilliant Hummingbird

How to Use It in the Field

Most cameras and smartphones offer a built-in grid overlay to help you visualize the rule of thirds while composing your shot. Try placing key elements—like a bird’s eye, a deer’s antlers, or a salmon’s leap—at one of the intersections. For landscapes, align the horizon with either the top or bottom / left or right third line, depending on whether the sky or foreground is more compelling.

La Paz Waterfall, Costa Rica

Examples in Nature Photography

• Wildlife portraits: Position the animal’s eye at a top intersection point to anchor the viewer’s gaze.

• Landscapes: Use the lower third for the horizon when the sky is dramatic, or the upper third when the foreground tells the story.

• Birds in flight: Place the bird on one side of the frame with open space in front of it, suggesting motion and direction.

When to Break the Rule

Like all compositional guidelines, the rule of thirds is a tool—not a law. Centered compositions can be powerful, especially when symmetry or intimacy is the goal. The key is knowing when to use the rule and when to break it with intention.

Whether you're photographing a bison grazing the open plains, a hummingbird perched on a branch, or the red rocks of the southwest, the rule of thirds can help you create images that feel balanced and intentional. It’s a simple shift in framing that often leads to stronger, more engaging photos.