Learn / Lesson 21 / Practical
Practical exercise

The rule of thirds: try it yourself

Photograph by Carl Cooper LRPS illustrating the rule of thirds
Photograph by Carl Cooper LRPS.

1. Grid Overlay

Turn on grid lines (in camera or phone); place a subject’s eyes on top-left intersection.

2. Recompose Challenge

Take a centreed photo, then re-shoot using rule of thirds; compare impact.

3. Horizon Test

Photograph a window view; place horizon on top or bottom third line.

4. Still Life

Arrange 3 objects (e.g., fruit, mug, book) along grid lines.

5. Negative Space

Place a small subject (e.g., key) in one third, leave rest empty; emphasize isolation.