The rule of thirds is a compositional guideline for arranging elements in an image so that points of interest are aligned with the intersecting points of an imaginary three-by-three grid overlaying the frame. Placing the subject on these points or lines rather than at the center of the image creates more balanced and appealing photographs according to the rule. Photographers should consider the points of interest in their shot and intentionally position them along the rule of thirds lines or intersecting points for improved composition.