What is the golden spiral in photography?

The golden spiral (also called the Fibonacci spiral) is a logarithmic spiral that grows by the golden ratio (φ = 1.618) with each quarter turn. When overlaid on a photograph, the spiral guides the viewer eye from the outer edge towards a focal point. Place your main subject at the spiral convergence point.

How is the golden spiral different from the golden ratio grid?

The golden ratio grid uses straight lines to divide the frame. The golden spiral creates a curved path through successive golden rectangles. The spiral is better for compositions with curves, flow and movement, while the grid works well for static compositions and horizon placement.

Can I flip the golden spiral?

Yes. The golden spiral can be placed in any of four orientations — converging to any corner of the image. Choose the orientation that best matches your composition flow. Most editing software that offers spiral overlays lets you rotate and flip them.

How do I use the golden spiral practically?

Place your main subject at or near the convergence point of the spiral. Arrange leading lines, curves or other elements along the spiral path. The spiral works especially well for seascapes (waves following the curve), portraits (body creating the curve), and food photography.

PhotoCalcs

Golden Spiral Calculator — Fibonacci Spiral Overlay

Calculate golden spiral overlay dimensions and focal point for your image frame.

Image Width

Width in pixels

Image Height

Height in pixels

How We Calculate This

The golden spiral is constructed from successive golden rectangles:

Spiral Construction

A golden rectangle (aspect ratio φ:1) is divided into a square and a smaller golden rectangle. This process repeats, creating successively smaller squares. Quarter-circle arcs through each square form the golden spiral.

Focal Point

Focal X = width / φ ≈ 61.8% from left

Focal Y = height / φ ≈ 61.8% from top

Each quarter turn, the spiral radius decreases by a factor of 1/φ, converging on the focal point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Rule of Thirds Calculator

Calculate rule of thirds grid intersection points for any image size. Get exact pixel coordinates for placing key subjects on the grid. Free online calculator.

Golden Ratio Calculator

Find golden ratio division points for compositional guides at any image resolution. Place subjects using the 1.618 proportional split. Free online photography calculator.

Panorama Calculator

Plan panorama shots with recommended overlap percentage, number of frames and total field of view coverage. Get sharp, seamless stitches. Free online calculator.

Photo Merge Calculator

Calculate the final resolution and file size when merging multiple images into a panorama or composite. Plan storage and output dimensions. Free calculator.

Symmetry Calculator

Find the precise centre lines and symmetry axes for your frame dimensions. Achieve perfect symmetrical compositions in architecture and reflections. Free calculator.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard optical and photographic formulas. Results may vary with specific equipment.