How to take better photos using framing grids in Nokia Camera

With Nokia Camera, you can change a lot of camera settings like white balance, focus, ISO, shutter speed, and brightness to take the perfect photo, but all of that don't matter if you don't pay attention to framing or composition. Fortunately, Nokia Camera provides framing grids that you can activate within the settings. We'll teach you how to turn them on and how you can use them to improve your photos.

  1. To get started, turn on Nokia Camera.
  2. Click the three dots on the lower right corner or the top right corner depending on how you're holding the camera.
  3. Tap settings.
  4. Framing grids is the second option. You can choose rule of thirds, golden ratio, crosshairs, or square.

So now that you know how to activate the framing grids, how exactly do you use them? Let's explain each one.

Rule of Thirds

The basic idea of the rule of thirds is to divide an image into thirds both horizontally and vertically. This creates lines, which helps you place your subjects. Placing subjects along the lines or where they intersect theoretically creates a better image than placing the subjects in dead center of the frame.

Golden Ratio

The Golden Ratio framing grid in Nokia Camera looks similar to the rule of thirds but the placement of the lines is a little different. According to DPS, instead of breaking into 3 equal parts (1+1+1), sections are broken down into 1 + 0.618 + 1. The idea comes from famous mathematician Leonardo Fibonacci. He noticed this ratio appears often throughout nature and forms designs that are pleasing to the human eye. It's a very interesting theory and there are several resources online that go more in-depth.

Just like the rule of thirds, place the main subjects or points of interests at the intersecting lines or along the lines. If it's a portrait photo, place one of the eyes at an intersection.

FYI, the Golden Ratio appears in the Mona Lisa.

Crosshairs

The crosshairs grid consists of two lines that intersect right in the middle. We rarely use this grid, but it can be helpful in aligning the horizon or putting subjects directly in the middle.

Square

If you intend to share your photo on Instagram, the square framing grid is really handy. This ensures your subjects fit inside the 1:1 ratio when you upload it to the popular social network.

Do you use framing grids?

You're going to see improvements in your photos right way when you use the rule of thirds or the golden ratio. The main idea is placing your subjects a little off the center of the frame produces better results than having them directly in the middle. If you combine these guidelines with the advanced controls that Nokia Camera provides, you can come up with some amazing photos.

Have you been using framing grids in Nokia Camera? Which grid do you use the most? Are you happy with the results? Let us know in the comments!

Mark Guim

Mark Guim is Video Editor at Windows Central. He switched to Windows because the MacBook Pro isn't Pro enough. You can follow him on Twitter at @markguim.