Kolmandikureegli

Kolmandikureegli is a term used in visual arts to refer to the rule of thirds, a guiding principle for composing images in photography, film, and design. The form kolmandikureegli is the Estonian standard spelling, while kolmandikreegel is also common; kolmandikureegli is often encountered as a misspelling or variant in informal usage.

Etymology and usage

The phrase combines kolmandik (one third) and reegel (rule). The rule of thirds proposes dividing an image into a 3x3 grid by two equally spaced vertical and two horizontal lines. Important elements are placed along these lines or at their intersection points, known as power points, to create balance and visual interest rather than centering the subject.

Practical application

In practice, photographers and designers overlay the grid and align horizons, subjects, and focal points with the lines or intersections. Portraits often place the eyes near the upper horizontal line, while landscapes may position the horizon on a line close to one of the horizontal guides. The rule also informs cropping decisions, especially for social media formats.

History and context

The rule of thirds has roots in classical art and photographic pedagogy and became widely taught in the 20th century with the rise of modern photography and cinema. It remains a foundational guideline in beginner instruction and is frequently included in camera viewfinders and editing software as a compositional aid.

Variations and limitations

As a guideline, it is not mandatory. Some compositions intentionally break the rule for effect, symmetry, or storytelling. Other principles, such as the golden ratio, may be used in conjunction with or instead of the rule of thirds, depending on the desired outcome.

See also

Golden ratio, leading lines, balance, composition, photography guidelines.