Rule 4/3 in photography, also known as the Golden Ratio or Fibonacci Spiral, is a compositional guideline. Photographers use to create visually pleasing and balanced images. It’s based on the Fibonacci sequence, a mathematical concept. Each number is the sum of the two preceding ones (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, and so on).
The Golden Ratio can be applied to photography by dividing the frame into a series of rectangles. With the ratio of the longer side to the shorter side being approximately 1,618; which is the Golden Ratio. Many consider this ratio to please the human eye aesthetically. Creating a sense of balance and harmony in an image.
One way to use the Golden Ratio in photography is by placing the main subject or focal point at or near the intersection points of these rectangles. By doing this, you draw the viewer’s attention to the subject while also allowing the eye to naturally follow the curve of the spiral, enhancing the overall composition.
Nature, art, and architecture frequently showcase the Golden Ratio, empowering photographers to craft images that evoke a subconscious connection in viewers. You’ll discover it within seashell spirals and leaf arrangements on a stem. Even in famous artworks like Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa.”
While adhering strictly to the Golden Ratio isn’t always necessary, understanding its principles can help photographers improve their composition skills. It provides a framework for creating balanced and visually appealing images. But it’s essential to remember that creativity and individuality should still play a significant role in photography.
In addition to placing subjects along the Golden Ratio’s grid lines, photographers can also use the spiral created by the Golden Ratio to guide the viewer’s eye through the image. This can add depth and visual interest to the composition, making it more engaging.
It’s worth noting that photography is an art form, and rules like the Golden Ratio are meant to be guidelines rather than strict mandates. While it can be a useful tool for composition, breaking the rules can sometimes lead to unique and striking photographs. Ultimately, the goal is to create images that evoke emotion and tell a story. Golden Ratio is just one of many tools at a photographer’s disposal to achieve that.
