Golden ratio

 The Golden Ratio, also known as the Golden Mean or Fibonacci Spiral, is a mathematical concept that has been utilized in various fields including art, architecture, and design for centuries. In photography, the Golden Ratio serves as a compositional guideline to create aesthetically pleasing and harmonious images.

The Golden Ratio is derived from the Fibonacci sequence, a series of numbers where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, and so on). When these numbers are used to create a spiral, the resulting shape is known as the Fibonacci Spiral or Golden Spiral. This spiral has a unique property where each quarter turn maintains the ratio of approximately 1.618:1, which is considered aesthetically pleasing to the human eye.

In photography, the Golden Ratio is often applied by dividing the frame into sections based on the Golden Ratio proportions. Similar to the Rule of Thirds, the goal is to position key elements of the composition along these lines or at their intersections to create a visually engaging image.

For example, in landscape photography, the horizon might be placed at one of the horizontal lines dividing the frame in accordance with the Golden Ratio. Additionally, prominent features such as trees, mountains, or architectural elements can be positioned along the spiral or at its intersections to draw the viewer's eye through the image in a harmonious way.

In portrait photography, the Golden Ratio can be used to position the subject's eyes or other facial features at key points within the frame, enhancing the overall composition and creating a sense of balance and symmetry.

While the Golden Ratio provides a guideline for composition, it's important to note that it's not a strict rule and should be used as a tool to guide creativity rather than a formula to rigidly adhere to. Experimentation and personal interpretation are key to finding the right balance and achieving visually captivating compositions in photography.