{"id":16918,"date":"2009-02-27T01:46:22","date_gmt":"2009-02-27T01:46:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/uwphoto.onpressidium.com\/book\/underwater-photography-intermediate-composition\/"},"modified":"2025-08-15T06:57:11","modified_gmt":"2025-08-15T06:57:11","slug":"underwater-photography-intermediate-composition","status":"publish","type":"book","link":"https:\/\/www.uwphotographyguide.com\/book\/underwater-photography-guide\/underwater-photography-composition\/underwater-photography-intermediate-composition\/","title":{"rendered":"Intermediate Composition"},"content":{"rendered":"

The “Rules”<\/p>\n

In the previous article, we outlined the most common underwater composition mistakes<\/a> beginners make. Now, let’s look at some underwater composition rules.<\/p>\n

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1) Rule of Thirds<\/h2>\n

The rule of thirds says that if a photo is divided up into “thirds” by lines, the key elements of the composition should be placed near the intersection of the lines.<\/p>\n

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Using the rule of thirds helps give a photo a sense of balance. This rule is often broken, especially with extreme close up shots, but it is still useful for many compositions. If you are having trouble getting good compositions, use the rule of thirds to help your compositions achieve balance.<\/p>\n

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As your experience progresses, you will not need to think about \u201crules\u201d, but use your own intuition for what makes a good design. Many excellent images do not follow the rule of thirds, so don\u2019t be afraid to go against the rule.<\/p>\n

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\"rule<\/div>\n

In this photo, the white lines divides the photo up into thirds. The rule of 3rds states that the key part of the main subject, in this case the eyes, should be places near one of the four intersections. This photo follows the rule perfectly. Photo by Mike Bartick.<\/p>\n

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<\/a>2) Wide-Angle Composition Basics<\/h2>\n