Besides the rule of thirds, commonly used composition techniques include:

• leading lines: use roads, fences, shadows, or edges to guide the viewer’s eye to the subject
• patterns and broken patterns: repeated shapes create order; interrupting the pattern makes a subject stand out
• negative space: leaving empty space around the subject can simplify the frame and add emphasis
• framing: use windows, doorways, branches, or foreground elements to frame the subject
• unusual perspective: shooting from very high, very low, or with wide/telephoto views can make familiar subjects more interesting
• selective focus or selective color: isolate attention by controlling blur or contrast
• balance, shape, texture, light, and shadow: these are broader visual principles that apply across photography and other visual arts

Other named systems often discussed are the golden ratio, diagonal method, rule of odds, and Bakker’s saddle.

A good way to “break” a rule is to first understand why it works. Then break it when you want the opposite effect. For example, instead of the rule of odds, use symmetry or even-numbered arrangements when you want a more formal, static, or calm image.