Travel photography is all about capturing what makes a place special—the landscapes, the people, and the moments that make each destination unique. But to really elevate your photos from plain to standout content, understanding a few key ideas is helpful. One of the most widely used methods is the Rule of Thirds, a photography and art principle that helps explain what makes a photo or other artwork interesting to someone’s eye.

What is the Rule of Thirds?

The Rule of Thirds is a guideline for composition that helps create a balanced, aesthetically pleasing image. Imagine each photo is divided into nine parts by two horizontal lines and two vertical lines. The idea is to position the most interesting parts of your photo along these lines or where they intersect.

Our eyes naturally go to these points of interest, and by placing subjects in these locations, you create a more engaging photo. This technique prevents your shots from looking too “flat” or boring, adding depth and motion to them.

How to Use the Rule of Thirds in Travel Photography/Content

1. The subject does not need to be in the center. 

Probably the most common error in photography is placing the subject right in the middle. Though it seems like it would make the most sense, it can often lead to boring shots. Instead, try positioning your subject along one of the vertical or horizontal lines. This can create more visual balance. 

Example: When shooting travel content including your family or friends, consider placing them along one of the vertical lines, off center. This will let you showcase the area around them and give more of a feeling of movement. 

2. Use the Intersecting Lines as Focal Points

The four intersections where the horizontal and vertical lines meet are the best spots for placing your main subject. These points attract a person’s eye, creating more of a flow through the photo. 

Example: If you are shooting a person on the beach, place their face at one of the intersections. Their face will be the initial subject, then the eyes will then go to what the body is doing and then the space around them. 

3. Place the Horizon

If you are shooting landscapes, the horizon is often part of the subject. If you are trying to get the sunset, don’t place the horizon in the exact center. 

• Top horizontal line: Use this for the horizon line when the ground is the more interesting part of the shot. (shows less sky)
• Bottom horizontal line: Use this line to show more of the sky- great for sunsets. (shows more sky)

This helps guide people’s eyes to what is important to you. 

4. Negative Space

Negative space is the empty area in a photo around your subject. This can help draw even more attention to your subject, it also helps when you consider advertising. The negative space is a great place for your client to add text. 

Example: You are photographing someone while out hiking. The shot is in a clearing and you place the subject to one side. Their face is at one of the intersecting points and the other side of the photo shows an open clearing and the sky. That spot is perfect to showcase some text or just show your viewer more of the scene. 

5. This Works With Landscape and Portrait Shots

Many people think about this type of composition with only landscape (horizontal) shots. Try using the grid with your vertical shots, too.

Place the most important parts of the shot along the vertical lines. It works just the same! (Remember, it’s just a guideline-play around with how to use it)

Why it Works

The lack of symmetry provides a “road map” for your eyes. It takes you on a journey through the photo, giving it a sort of story and motion and keeps you engaged longer. 

How Do I Actually Use it Though?

1. Turn on the Grid: Most cameras and phones allow you to turn on a grid overlay. This is the easiest way to get yourself to visualize the grid while you shoot. 
2. Lines: Look for natural lines to use in your photos and align them to the grid. (Rivers, shores, roads, mountains, trees, buildings, etc.)
3. Story: What is the story you are trying to tell about your subject? What do you want people to notice about it? This will help you think about the placement on the grid.
4. Experiment: Try using the Rule of Thirds a while and then experiment. Try taking the same shot, with different focal points. It’s a great way to learn about what helps tell the story. 

Now that you are excited to try this out, head to your dashboard and apply for your next collab. If you haven’t joined Shrpa yet, click here to learn more about what it means to be a Shrpa creator.