composition, rule of fourths?

[mykayak]

I know about the rule of thirds and this is shot sure ain't using it, more like fourths to me and the horizon is right in the center. I had no choice where to stand when it was shot and this is the best crop I could come up with. Rules are made to be broken, should I just round file this and try again another day?



Tv(Shutter Speed)
1/800Sec.
Av(Aperture Value)
F7.1
ISO Speed
200

[lewerim]

I disagree. When I mentally draw in "the thirds," I find that:
the boat on the right is on the vertical right third line,
the vertical left third line runs through the vertical center-of-mass for the cabin on the boat on the left,
AND the lower horizontal third line runs right through the portlights (windows) on the boat on the left.

Looking closer, there is a figure in the portlight almost directly at the intersection of the lower third line and the left third line.

I'd say you did well with the rule of thirds. I also see nice repetition with the fact that the right boat is mimicking the position of the left (just farther out.)

What detracts (for me) is the boat at dock immediately behind the left boat.) I think it clutters that area. It's hard to tell where one boat ends and the other begins.

All in all, I'd say nice capture. Brings back memories of working on the water (I lobstered in Maine for about a year.)

Not sure I understand all the "rules" of photography yet, but those are my 2 censt.

[kencaleno]

As the boat in the left forefront is obviously the main subject,for a start it should have been placed at the Right of the image frame-giving space to move into. A lower shooting angle would have included the top of the masts,and would have placed the horizon lower in the frame. regards, Ken

[kencaleno]

Originally Posted by lewerim

Not sure I understand all the "rules" of photography yet, but those are my 2 censt.

Yes, you need to understand the rule of thirds-you can't just interpret the rule as you wish.
Main subject is what you need to place first-in the most aesthetic position. Next horizon needs careful attention-higher third for "earthy feel"; lower third for "Dreamy feel"-then you need to leave out that which detracts from the main subject-and all this should be done in the viewfinder. Regards, Ken