2024 Approved How to Use Rule of Thirds in Video

How to Use Rule of Thirds in Video

So you have your work flow sorted out and you’re well on your way with Filmora but you’re not quite happy with your results or something just seems off when you watch your videos back. You may be missing an important element of all visual media and that’s composition. This is where the building blocks of every frame come together to make a visually pleasing piece for the viewer and helps the eyes concentrate on the content rather than trying to figure out what they are looking at.

I’m sure you may have heard of the rule of thirds for art or photography and you may not know or understand what it is. You may even be wondering how the rule of thirds can help you with your video creation. Well, that is what I’m going to show and explain to you today.

What is the rule of thirds

At its core the rule of thirds is a guide to follow whenever you create something visual.

You break an image into thirds both horizontally and vertically, in doing this you are left with nine boxes and four gridlines, the rule states that by placing key elements in line with gridlines you will have an overall better composition.

To gain a better understanding of this here is a visual example of the gridlines and nine boxes.

This may seem simple but is often overlooked due to time restraints and eagerness to get that video out there. By following these guidelines your overall composition will gain interesting and pleasing results that can help with viewer engagement. This is only one piece of the puzzle but as any photography professional or artist will tell you, It’s the small things that add up.

How to use the rule of thirds

To show how to use the rule of thirds I will be showing an image with and without the use of the guidelines. In doing this you will be able to see how impactful this system is and how it can help with your own creations within Filmora .

This will be our scene example, you can see buildings, boats, water and skyline. This may be typical of a backdrop or an insert for a holiday picture amongst many other things.

I will now show this picture with no compositional thought and without the use of the thirds system.

Notice how all the elements are in the scene but it just looks interesting and something just seems off when you look at it. You may find yourself searching for understanding of the image rather than taking the image in and concentrating on what the creator intended. This is seen commonly due to the need to fit every element in the scene but sometimes it is best to sacrifice something you may see as important for the sake of the whole picture.

We will now look at the example image with the rule of thirds in place and see if overall this makes a more interesting scene.

We have aligned the skyline with the first horizontal grid line and aligned the boats with the vertical grid lines. We have sacrificed the crane in the scene but overall I’m sure you can agree that this is more pleasing and makes more sense when you’re viewing this. The whole middle section of the scene now has information within it and the contrast between the middle and the rest of the scene directs your eyes to what was intended to be viewed, This is called effect use of empty space. In doing this you save yourself time from adding more information to direct the viewer.

Placing key elements directly in the center of your scene can seem static and boring but by placing elements to one side or using the first and second horizontal grid lines you create something called Dynamism , where the viewer sees an element along the grid and takes a journey through the rest of the image.

Studies have shown that this is the humans natural way of viewing imagery, we first find something interesting to look at and then journey around that. So by using this rule you are creating a more natural process for your viewer.

Tips when starting using the rule of thirds

The first tip I would say is to view other videos, YouTube is a good starting point. Watch interviews and notice where the chairs are aligned. Watch reviewers and notice where they position themselves in the scene. Lastly watch movies and pause on an interesting scene and try to deconstruct where everything is placed and why they chose that composition.

The idea with the rule is to have it become something you do naturally, by always considering the form you save yourself time in the editing process. The key things you have in your mind whenever you make a scene should be.

1. What is the key element in my scene or what am I trying to make the viewer focus on.

2. where do I intend to place these in my scene?

3. Have I created a balanced scene with enough negative space to direct the eye.

If you consider this with every video you make then in time this will become as natural as drinking water on a hot day. As a practice you could open some old projects and apply this rule to your video to see the results and you may find yourself impressed with the change.

When is it best to not use the rule of thirds?

The rule is very useful when you’re aiming to grab the attention towards a certain element but that being said, when you have a symmetrical scene you can get away with not using the rule as your eyes can make sense of symmetry very well.

Even when working with a symmetrical scene you can incorporate the rule within for elements such as people or key figures but in this situation it is down to the creator to figure what they feel is best in any given shot.

How to Use Rule of Thirds in Filmora

The tools provided within Filmora are generous and one great feature is the crop and size tool.

When inserting an image or movie file you can right click on the timeline and select crop and size bringing up a handy screen with the gridlines already there for you. It’s just a matter of aligning your shot for the best composition.

For reference I will show you what this looks like.

First right click the timeline on the image you want to reposition. Alternatively you can select the desired insert and press Alt+C this will also bring up the same editing box.

Now click on the crop and zoom option and this editor will appear.

As you can see you are able to align the shot and change the aspect ratio to align with your project. For a better look at the built in grid lines see image below.

Conclusion

To conclude, the rule of thirds is very important within visual media and is tough within the fundamentals of art and photography from beginner level right up to the highest point of education, Practice thinking about your placement of key elements within your videos and how this affects your overall composition. The goal is to have this as an automatic thought when shooting your videos or still images. This is a small change you can make but has a big impact on how a viewer engages your content and in return leaves a positive opinion towards your creativity and eye for detail.

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Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

How To Add Text In After Effects

In almost every video you come across, you will see text added to the video in different parts. There are various reasons why adding text to videos becomes a necessity. First of all, you can highlight the underlying message or key points in your video. Along with audio and video, the viewers will have another cue point in the form of text that they can retain in their memory for longer. You add animated texts to video to make the video interesting to watch and break the monotony of visual cues only.

Besides, you may have to want credits and add intro as well as outro to your video where adding text is almost a necessity. Text can help your viewer get the context of your video and make sense of the content. After Effects is a popular video editor thanks to its visual effects, text animation animations, and instant video enhancement tools. We will illustrate the different ways of adding text in After Effects in simple steps.

Part 1. Add Text in After Effects with Horizontal Type Tool

Once you have imported your video clip into the Timeline, there are several ways you can add text to your video. First of all, you can right-click on the Timeline and select New> Text to create an empty text layer and add any text you want. Similarly, you can go to Layer> New> Text option to do the same. But the easiest way of adding text in After Effects is by using Horizontal Type Tool. Here are the steps on how you can add text in AE with the type tool.

Step1Once you have imported your video into the Timeline, click on Horizontal Type Tool located in the top bar to add any text. You can press Ctrl+T(Windows) or Command+H(Mac) to get it instantly.

Step2Click on the video where you want to place the text and type your desired text there. After you are done adding your text, press Enter key in Num pad to exit out of the text field in the video.

Step3This will automatically create a text layer on Timeline. You can now move the text and place it anywhere you want. You can also modify the text style and add animation which we will illustrate in the next section.

Part 2. Use the Character Panel to Edit Text in AE

When you select Type tool and add your desired text, you get a default style for the text. It is most likely that you have to modify the text style such as changing color, font, and size to fit in your video seamlessly. That is when you have to visit the Character Panel. Character Panel is where you get to edit the font of the text you have typed, increase or decrease the font size, change the font color, and much more. Apart from that, you can increase the spacing between lines when your text is a paragraph instead of a few words. Here are the steps to use Character Panel to edit text in AE.

Step1Once you have typed your text using Horizontal Type tool on the video, click on the text.

Step2Go to Character panel located in the right side of the screen. If it is minimized, click on the panel to expand it.

Step3The first option in the panel is the font of the text. By the side of the font is the text color. You can use the color picker tool to choose any color as per your preference.

Step4Below the font, you can select the font style such as regular, bold, italics, and likewise. The subsequent part is to change the font size and adjust vertical spacing between lines and horizontal spacing between characters.

Step5The next section deals with Stroke option as well as fill the text option. You can fill the background of the text with any desired color.

Part 3. Add Animated Text to Video with Animation Presets

Now that you have added a static text and set the text format as per your preference, it is time to animate the text. A static text in a video does not look appealing, and animated texts make the video eye-catching instantly. You can use text animation presets in After Effects to add animated text to video. Here are the steps to add animated text to video with animation presets and effects.

Step1Click on the text on your video that you want to animate. Go to Effects and Presets panel located on the right side.

Step2Under Effects and Presets panel, Click on Text option. This will open all the different categories of animation presets available that you can apply to the text on your video.

Step3Select any desired animation that you want to apply to the text and drag and drop the animation on the text in the composition window. Play the video and watch the applied animation on the text.

Part 4. Alternative Way to Add Text to Videos

If you are not comfortable with After Effects as a video editor, we recommend Wondershare as the best AE alternative. This is because the user interface of Filmora is super simple and there are loads of text effects and animations available to enhance your video content. Filmora is a professional video editor that is extremely popular among amateur and professional video editors. The application is available for both Windows and Mac users. Here are the steps for adding animated text to video using Filmora.

Step1Install Wondershare Filmora on your computer and launch the application. Click on New Project option on the welcome screen. Otherwise, you can go to File> New Project option.

Step2Go to File> Import Media> Import Media Files to import your video file. You can also drop the video file directly into Project Media folder.

Step3Drag and drop the video file from Project Media folder into the Timeline. If you have multiple video clips, you need to arrange them sequentially on the Timeline.

Step4To add text to your video, go to Titles located at the top bar. Check the left panel where you can see different categories of text effects. Select any desired text effect and drop into the Timeline. Make sure that the text layer is above the video layer on Timeline. You can shift the text layer on Timeline to place it where you want it to appear. You can also stretch the duration of the text effect as per your requirements.

Step5You can edit the text effect by double clicking on the text layer on Timeline. Under Preset tab, you can change the text, font type and size, text color and much more. For further customization, you can click on Advanced button. At last, click on OK button to save the edits done.

The Bottom Line

If you want to add animated text to photo and video, After Effects is a great editor you can use. We have illustrated how you can add text and customize the text and finally, animate it as per your preference. However, if you are looking for AE alternative, we recommend Wondershare Filmora where you can add text to video instantly and choose from a wide range of text effects and animations.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Part 1: Introduction

What exactly are video filters, you ask?

Well, video filters are like Instagram filters for your videos but with much more finesse.

They allow you to tweak various aspects of your video’s appearance, such as color, contrast, saturation, and more, to achieve the desired visual style.

The beauty of video filter software lies in its ability to enhance your video’s overall look and feel. Let’s explore the top contenders in the video filter software arena.

Part 2: Top 5 Video Filter Software

01 Filmora

Our first contender in the world of video filter software is Filmora. Designed with a user-friendly interface, Filmora is the ideal choice for those who want to enhance their videos effortlessly. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it stand out.

Advantages:

Filmora’s intuitive interface makes it a breeze for beginners to get started. You don’t need to be a tech whiz to dive into video editing; Filmora guides you through the process seamlessly.
Filmora boasts an extensive library of video presets and color grading presets. This treasure trove of pre-made styles allows you to give your videos that extra flair without the need for in-depth editing skills.
Time is precious, and Filmora respects that. It offers quick rendering speeds, so you can see the results of your editing efforts in no time.
Filmora’s simplicity is its strength, but it doesn’t mean it lacks creative potential. You can still go into more advanced features when you’re ready to level up your video editing game. This software gracefully balances accessibility and functionality.

Disadvantages:

So, you might be wondering, what about the downsides? Well, Filmora is so user-friendly that it can make you addicted to editing!

You might find yourself spending hours perfecting your videos, which, to be honest, is more of an advantage disguised as a disadvantage. Who wouldn’t want to get lost in the world of video editing, creating stunning content effortlessly?

02 DaVinci Resolve

When it comes to professional video editing and color correction, DaVinci Resolve stands as a true powerhouse in the world of video filter software.

Renowned for its robust feature set and precision, it’s the go-to choice for filmmakers, colorists, and anyone who demands the highest level of control over their video projects.

Advantages:

DaVinci Resolve is unrivaled in its color correction and grading capabilities. Whether you’re aiming for a cinematic look or a specific color scheme, the software provides an extensive suite of tools to fine-tune every detail. Its color wheels, curves, and advanced grading panels allow you to achieve the exact visual style you envision.
It provides a lot of cool stuff for editing sound and video, like fancy tools for fixing audio, working with multiple cameras, and working together with others on the same project. This makes it an all-in-one solution for every aspect of video post-production.
In a world where teamwork is essential, DaVinci Resolve shines with its collaboration features. Many people can work on a project together at the same time, making it easier for teams working on big video projects to edit smoothly.

Disadvantages:

DaVinci Resolve can be resource-intensive, demanding a powerful computer setup for smooth operation. This could be a great advantage for people with really good computers, but it might be a bit tough for folks with older or less powerful ones.

03 HitFilm Express

If you’re an aspiring filmmaker or content creator looking to dive into the world of video editing and visual effects, HitFilm Express is your ticket to boundless creativity.

This versatile software combines video editing and visual effects seamlessly, allowing you to create stunning, professional-quality videos without breaking the bank.

Advantages:

HitFilm Express excels in merging video editing and visual effects into one unified platform. This means you can effortlessly incorporate jaw-dropping visual effects into your videos without the need for additional software. Whether you’re adding explosions, futuristic CGI, or enchanting motion graphics, HitFilm Express has you covered.
It offers a free version that provides access to its fundamental video filter features and VFX capabilities. This is a fantastic opportunity for budding content creators to dip their toes into the world of video editing without any financial commitment.
HitFilm Express comes with an extensive library of tutorials, making it incredibly user-friendly for those who are new to video editing or visual effects. These tutorials guide you through the software’s features and help you create eye-catching effects like a pro.

Disadvantages:

As for potential downsides, the free version of HitFilm Express may have some limitations compared to the paid version.

While it provides access to essential features, you may find certain advanced options restricted.

However, this can be seen as an advantage because it allows you to explore the software without any upfront costs.

04 Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro is a name that resonates deeply within the video editing community. It’s renowned for its versatility and rich feature set, making it a go-to choice for professional video editors and content creators alike.

Advantages:

When it comes to customization, Adobe Premiere Pro truly shines. The software offers an extensive library of plugins and extensions, allowing you to tailor your video filter effects to your precise liking. Whether you’re into color grading, visual effects, or audio enhancement, you’ll find the tools you need within Adobe’s vast ecosystem.
If you’re already a part of the Adobe Creative family, you’ll appreciate Premiere Pro’s seamless integration with other Adobe software. Easily import and export assets from Adobe Photoshop or Adobe After Effects, enhancing your workflow and saving you time.
Adobe is committed to keeping Premiere Pro at the forefront of video editing technology. With regular updates, you can expect a constant influx of new features, improvements, and bug fixes. This ensures that your editing experience remains cutting-edge.

Disadvantages:

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. Adobe Premiere Pro operates on a subscription-based model, which means you’ll need to pay a monthly or annual fee to access the software. While this provides you with ongoing updates and support, it might not be the best fit for those on a strict budget.

Adobe Premiere Pro’s extensive feature set can be overwhelming for beginners. If you’re new to video editing, you may find the learning curve a bit steep. However, with dedication and a wealth of online tutorials available, mastering the software is within reach.

05 Final Cut Pro

If you’re a proud owner of a Mac, Final Cut Pro should be on your radar as the ultimate video filter software. This Apple-exclusive gem is tailored to take your video editing experience to the next level, offering seamless integration with the macOS ecosystem.

Advantages:

A standout feature of Final Cut Pro is how well it works together with other Apple devices and software, making everything run smoothly. Whether you’re working on your Macbook, iPad, or iPhone, Final Cut Pro keeps your workflow smooth and consistent. This synergy allows you to transfer projects effortlessly between devices, making it a go-to choice for Apple enthusiasts.
Final Cut Pro is a powerhouse when it comes to handling high-resolution videos. Whether you’re working with 4K or 8K footage, this software handles it with grace and precision. Expect smooth playback and rapid rendering, even with the most demanding video projects.
Mac users will feel right at home with Final Cut Pro’s sleek and user-friendly interface. The software’s design prioritizes ease of use without compromising on functionality. You can focus on your creative vision rather than wrestling with a complex interface.

Disadvantages:

It’s important to mention that Final Cut Pro is quite expensive, which might not be affordable for people on a tight budget.

Final Cut Pro is exclusive to macOS, which means Windows users will have to explore alternative software options. If you’re committed to the Apple ecosystem and prioritize top-notch video editing, Final Cut Pro is a wise investment.

Part 3: Summary

In a world where visual content rules supreme, having the right video filter software can make all the difference.

Your choice depends on your skill level, preferences, and budget. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s a video filter software out there that’s perfect for you. Feel free to dive in, experiment, and let your creativity sparkle in your videos!

Part 1: Introduction

What exactly are video filters, you ask?

Well, video filters are like Instagram filters for your videos but with much more finesse.

They allow you to tweak various aspects of your video’s appearance, such as color, contrast, saturation, and more, to achieve the desired visual style.

The beauty of video filter software lies in its ability to enhance your video’s overall look and feel. Let’s explore the top contenders in the video filter software arena.