Number of subjects in a balanced image
You might not know this, but the number of subjects in your photo is important. This rule of numbers is also referred to as the rule of odds. It states that your image will appear more appealing if you have odd number of subjects in it (for example 1, 3, 5, 7).
It also looks very nice if you place your subjects in one line. Lines always look winning. Especially leading lines. What also looks good is if you manage to catch the moment with some action or where your subjects are in a similar position. Mimicking each other.
What is the best number of subjects
If you are lucky enough to have lots of control over the number of subjects in your image. And if you wonder if there is the best number you should look for. There is! Your best bet is number 3. Try to include 3 subjects in your photo.
- Keep in mind that it does not mean literally only 3 subjects in one shot (people, fruits or animals, etc.). You can take a picture of 3 groups of people/fruits/animals – or whatever you are photographing. A small group is counted as one entity.
- You can also mix it up. For example, you can take an image with 2 groups of people and 1 person walking separately – you’ll still have 3 individual components in total.
