It can be very difficult for a photographer, both inexperienced and professional, to capture an enthralling eye-catching image. Various factors can affect a picture and the mood that it is meant to reflect, such as correct lighting, the weather, focal style, colour manipulation and composition. .
Deciding where to position images in photographs can cause confusion. For example although it is a safe option to place the main focal image in the centre of the photograph it can sometimes be too dominating and not pleasing to the eye. .
There is a well known photographic rule that many photographers and painters use, called the 'rule of thirds', which can be applied to many different various subjects and as a basic rule it makes the photograph more interesting by the positioning of the subject. .
The rule of thirds is achieved by dividing your subject area up using two pairs of equally distanced, imaginary horizontal and vertical lines, creating nine equal boxes, like a noughts and crosses board. When applying the rule of thirds the idea is to place a strong element of the image on one of the lines or intersections of the grid and in turn it will create a better composition. .
With reference to 'Creative Technology', it suggests that picture composition is usually improved if your principle subject is off centre. When taking photos of landscapes it is a bad idea to place the horizon right through the middle of the picture as it can look boring and uninspiring. Information viewed at 'www.vividlight.com' states that "Placing your horizon line for example, in the upper or lower third of your composition can place emphasis on either the foreground or the background. Dividing your composition into thirds helps to avoid a static composition." .
Using the rule of thirds also lets you show a subject in context. "A central subject usually needs to fill the frame to have any impact while an off centre one reveals the setting.
