Photo composition involves how objects are positioned in a frame to create depth and dimension and focal points. Rules of composition in photography include the golden ratio, dynamic symmetry grid and the rule of thirds. Each of these provides guidance on where and how to place elements in a frame and how many subjects is most appealing. Other photo composition techniques include frame within a frame and leading lines.

Composition in Photography shares a lot with film, as both look through a camera to “Frame” their composition. 

Fold an image into thirds vertically and horizontally, and you'll end up with nine equal spaces. The folded lines create a simple grid. These grids identify points on which you can place subjects of interest in your composition and ‘lines’ along which to align objects and background elements.

The golden ratio is a mathematical principle that creates visually pleasing compositions.  When simplified to a grid – like the rule of thirds, it provides points and lines on which to layout a composition.  This grid is called a Phi Grid.

The Dynamic Symmetry grid is geometrically designed to promote continuity, flow, rhythm, and balance within design. It takes the Phi Grid and then adds the Baroque Diagonal, the Sinister diagonal, and a reciprocal line.  Where these diagonal points overlap creates additional points of interest and lines on which to arrange the subjects of your composition.

Utilizing these will balance your composition and enable the viewer to interact with it naturally. 

The rule of thirds, the golden ratio, and dynamic symmetry are about laying out the total composition. The rule of odds is about the quantity of subjects in that composition, and posits that an odd number of subjects will be more visually interesting than an even number.

When there is an even number of subjects your brain creates pairs, while odd numbers draw your eye to the middle subject, creating a focal point. Thus, a common use of the rule of odds is to have three subjects, either in a line or a triangle.

Working in 2-dimensional mediums, depth and dimension are essential. Including a foreground, middle ground, and background creates depth and dimensionality.  This technique makes use of atmospheric perspective, scale and space.