the rule oF thIrds
One way to balance an image is to posi-
tion a main focal point on a “third-line”
in the frame. The “rule of thirds” is a basic
composition principle that exists in all
forms of art, and using it can often result
in a pleasing, well-balanced image. To
picture what the rule of thirds is, imagine
a tic-tac-toe grid placed over your image.
“Proper” placement of your subject would
be along any of the lines in the image
(Figure 5.1) or on any of the four intersect-
ing points within the frame (Figure 5.2).
Now, this doesn’t mean that putting the
food in the middle of the frame won’t
look good (Figure 5.3). Symmetry—as
well as asymmetry—can also be beautiful.
There is no right or wrong way to com-
pose a photograph, but there are always
ways that will make a specific subject or
setup look better. Since all photos are
unique, it’s a good idea to experiment
with your subject to see what type of
framing works best.