Friday 27 November 2015

Rule of thirds

The rule of thirds is a concept in video and film production in which the frame is divided into nine imaginary sections, as illustrated on the the top photo. This creates reference points which acts as guides for framing the image. Points of interest should occur at 1/3 or 2/3 of the way up (or across) the frame, rather than in the centre. Like many of those rules of framing, this is not always necessary but we need to know why we use before we break it.




Close up
We were given a task to take two still images, one using the rule of thirds and the other breaking it. We did this to see how effective it was, and what meaning it caused. It also allows us to see how breaking the rule of thirds can be used to our advantage.
In this example, we used Jack and he is positioned in the middle of the shot. His facial features are on the intercepting points of the grid. This conforms to the rule of thirds. We used this positioning to make his facial features stand out, and to direct attention towards his face.





However, in this example, we broke the rule of thirds as none of Jack's facial features are located on the intercepting points of this grid. We used this to create an unnerving and unnatural feel towards the image and therefore can be used when trying to portray a character as evil and unnatural.






Landscape

In the same way we used rule of thirds in the landscape shots to create a similar effect.
In this example we took our landscape shots, similar to our close ups. This is used to create a calm and peaceful nature shot. This can be done to make the location seem safe and natural.






In contrast, this photo breaks the rule of thirds. This can be used to make a location uneasy, unnerving and untrusting. It could be used effectively in a horror or thriller, because it does not follow the rule of thirds, which creates an un natural bond with the audience.









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