The Rule of Thirds

One of the most popular rules in videography and photography is the Rule of Thirds. When using the Rule of Thirds, you place the subject away from the center of the frame (off center), which results in a more interesting picture.

To do this, imagine a grid of two horizontal and two vertical lines in your viewfinder, dividing your view into nine equal parts. This is an option on some video cameras and digital cameras. To apply this rule, line up your subject with the grid lines, placing the horizon on the top or bottom line, not the center.

Jim Shorts provides an excellent example of how to use the Rule of Thirds in his video tutorial. Check it out.