From Golden Mean to Rule of Thirds
So, this Golden Mean we find everywhere – for some reason – humans are drawn to this. When we see it, it gives a sense of structure to the human mind; it gives harmony and dynamicism at the same time. So how do we make use of this? In order to simplify the usage, we will use something that is quite close to the Golden Mean, we will use the Rule of Thirds (see images for explanation).
Golden Mean explained: Here we use the Golden Mean vertically and horizontally once.
Golden Mean applied: If we use it twice horizontally and vertically, you can see that the image is now split into 9 boxes.
The Rule of Thirds applied: To simplify it, we make thirds out of this. To use the Rule of Thirds often, you can set the rulers in PowerPoint to divide your slides as in this image.
Using the Rule of Thirds in your slides
Using the Rule of Thirds is a powerful thing. You should use it to structure your slides. Place your objects and your elements in accordance with the grids (see some examples at the end of this post).
You should also make use of it to place objects. The four intersections of the dividers are called hotspots or power points (:-) ), and you should consider putting the main object of the slides there; putting it in the middle of the slide might make the image a bit boring. By using the Rule of Thirds as a guideline you can make the images more harmonious and dynamic.
Some examples of using the Rule of Thirds
Here are some Rule of Thirds examples I’ve used in my slides in order to make the slides more structured and dynamic (and less boring).
For more on using the Rule of Thirds:
- Rule of Thirds (Darren Rowse’s Digital Photography School)
- From Golden Mean to Rule of Thirds (Garr Reynolds’ Presentation Zen )
For more on the fascinating Golden Mean
- The Wikipedia entry for the Golden ratio
- A short article on how Fibonacci numbers/math relate to the Golden mean and aesthetics
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
This is interesting. I’ve never heard of this. I’ll try this sometime. Thanks for sharing. I’m into digital photography so this is something to consider.
Hi skepto,
you’re welcome. Yes, in photography this is also very useful. It’s really amazing what the Rule of Thirds can do when making photographs.
Oliver
Thankyou Oliver for this idea which I will put into many as of my slides as I can, I love your examples – especially of the women with gun…
I think this a fantastic example! The use of thirds emphasize two elements: physicality and intention - her eyes and hurt – it’s standout without us knowing exactly why?
Thankyou for being generous
Anthonie