The Rule of Thirds
One of the most basic rules of composition is the “rule of thirds.” Using this principle, you simply divide your viewfinder into thirds by imagining two horizontal and two vertical lines that divide the frame equally.
The key to using this method of composition is to have your main subject located at or near one of the intersecting points (Figure 5.12). This will help you keep your subject out of the center of the frame, which is generally frowned upon.
Figure 5.12. The man’s face was positioned on one of the intersecting lines for a more pleasing composition.
When shooting in Live View mode, you can add a grid overlay to your LCD monitor to help you with composition.
1. Press the Menu button, and go to the first LCD menu tab (fifth tab from the left) (A).
2. Use the Quick Control dial to scroll down to Grid display. Press the Set button.
3. Select 3×3 (B), and press the Set button to lock in the change.
4. Press the Live View Shooting button on the back of your camera (C), and you’ll see a grid overlay in your LCD monitor.
