how do u compose yr pictures

[klein]

i know there is the 1/3 rule and lines of composition like triangle, vertical extra but how do u really see it in yr viewfinder, how do u recognize it?

 

[Azure]

Literal reply to your thread title :
I compose my shots in my mind. The viewfinder or LCD is just an extra bonus that I don't use 50% of the time, if only to confirm the composition.

 

[ziploc]

Hi klein,

Just draw 2 vertical lines and 2 vertical lines dividing the viewfinder into 3 equal horizontal & 3 vertical portions using your imagination, and there you have your 3rds and the 4 cross-sections of the 3rds.

See here for an example:
http://www.kodak.com/eknec/PageQuerier.jhtml?pq-path=332/394&pq-locale=en_US

Hope that helps.

 

[espn]

Ouch... draw it on the viewfinder? :sweat:

 

[AJ23]

use the grid display if your camera supports it.

 

[SNAG]

use the grid display if your camera supports it.

Just to ask, any good books on these 'technical' composition rules?
One thing I would like to ask is that will these technical rules hinder composition creativity?

Or even those creative shots are still largely based on these rules?

 

[dannynys]

Just to ask, any good books on these 'technical' composition rules?
One thing I would like to ask is that will these technical rules hinder composition creativity?

Or even those creative shots are still largely based on these rules?

Well, you can try to look for books in the library. Most self-taught photography book will have the information on composition. These composition rules originates from painters who does canvas in the good old days. I don't think it hinder creativity, it does give you a rough guide. These rules are just some things which people come up that give them a good result. You can always break them if you want to, but I advise you should at least know them first. :cheers: