To use the golden spiral method, first visualize your frame as what’s called the golden rectangle. Like the golden ratio grid, the golden rectangle features straight line segments using the 1:1.618 ratio, dividing the rectangle into squares of different sizes.

The golden spiral or Fibonacci spiral curves up from the corner of the largest square to the opposite corner, then continues curving into each smaller square. In all, it forms a logarithmic spiral similar to what you might see on a snail shell.

Just as framing a photograph using the rule of thirds can make your image more compelling, so too can framing the objects or focal points of your photograph along the golden spiral.

Using the golden ratio in photography is less intuitive than the rule of thirds. However, if you’re not afraid of a challenge, try applying the golden ratio as a composition technique during your next shoot. You may be pleasantly surprised to find that a simple mathematical equation can help you produce more visually interesting imagery.