Rule of thirds is a very simple composition technique that allows filmmakers to create beautiful frames. It doesn’t require additional equipment or latest technology cameras. Moreover, it appeals to almost all viewers: Movie buffs that keep up with every festival, casual viewers that enjoy easy-to-consume content, and anyone in between. That is why rule of thirds is used very frequently in cinematography.
From up-and-coming filmmakers to seasoned cinematographers, everyone is aware of the power of rule of thirds. That is why you can see beautiful compositions that follow the rule of thirds in all genres: documentaries, action movies, romantic comedies, dramas, comedies, advertisements and more.
Rule of thirds allows creating more balanced frames and compositions. It complements the natural movements of the eye: Our eyes tend to look at the center of the frame first, then travel to the sides and corners. Rule of thirds offer a theoretical framework for cinematography while complementing the natural, almost instinctive way we look at and see things.
When rule of thirds is followed, even the most action-packed scenes are very easy to follow. Moreover, following this rule allows creating more dynamic and interesting images.
A very famous example of a very impressive use of rule of thirds come from the groundbreaking action movie, Mad Max: Fury Road. First met the audience in 2016, Mad Max: Fury Road received an abundance of accolades including the Academy Award for Best Film Editing, British Academy Award for Best Editing, Satellite Award for Best Cinematography, and Critics’ Choice Award for Best Editing. Moreover, it was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Cinematography and Best Picture, along with British Academy Award for Best Cinematography.
What made a blockbuster movie like Mad Max: Fury Road this special and critically acclaimed? Rule of thirds! Film editor Margaret Sixel says she followed the rule of thirds almost religiously when she was in the editing room, creating her masterpiece.
Packed with constant action, Mad Max: Fury Road could easily be a difficult movie to follow. Yet Sixel made sure that the action was at the center of the frame in each and every second of the movie.
The action here is at the center of the frame. Hence regardless of how high tempo this car chase is, the viewer can easily keep up with what goes on in the frame.
The protagonist is in the middle of a very chaotic situation: He has a metal mouthguard on his face and is chained to metal bars on top of a car which shoots literal fire and chases another vehicle. There are a lot of attention-grabbing details in this scene, on top of that we witness a high-speed, high-tension chase. Yet all the important action happens at the center of the frame, that is why it is very easy to remain on top of the action despite everything.
If you want to keep your audience engaged in your content, you should pay attention to following the rule of thirds. You can shoot impressive advertisements, films, vlogs and much more following this easy and simple rule of composition.
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