The concept of aligning a subject with guidelines and their intersection points is referred to as the Rule of Thirds. This compositional guideline suggests that dividing an image into a grid of nine equal parts by two vertical lines and two horizontal lines creates points of interest at the intersections. By placing the main elements of a scene along these lines or at their intersections, a more balanced and visually appealing composition can be achieved. This technique helps to guide the viewer’s eye and create a more engaging image.
In contrast, the Golden Ratio involves a mathematical proportion that's often associated with aesthetics but is more complex than the straightforward grid setup of the Rule of Thirds. The Symmetry Principle focuses on balancing elements within the composition rather than utilizing a grid structure like the Rule of Thirds. Visual Weight Distribution refers to the importance of balancing the elements in a composition based on their visual impact rather than their physical arrangement on a grid. These alternatives do not provide the same straightforward method for achieving dynamic composition through the use of intersecting lines as the Rule of Thirds does.