Exercise 23. Rhythms and patterns

I am looking at the concept of rhythms and patterns in elements of design.  It is required that I submit at least two photographs that show how these two elements work when composing a photograph.  


Rhythms 

Fig 1.

1/50sec    f/5.6     41mm     AWB

The elements in this photograph are similar and form a rhythmic composition.  To establish a rhythm, repetition is necessary.  The structure of the roof and the decorative panels are similar and form two elements of rhythmic repetition. The panels on the wall draw the eye towards the lit area and the repetitive patterns in the roof space curve downwards, also drawing eye to the red lights. The repetition here is obvious.

Fig 2.  

f4.5     55mm    ISO 200  AWB

Repetitive vertical row of dead wood, forming the walls to a home, create rhythm in this image.  The eye  is lead through the photograph from left to right naturally.

Patterns

Fig 3. 

1/500 sec    f5.6     300mm     ISO200  AWB

Tail -  end of crocodile

Natural curve through the frame, and pattern leads the eye from the lower frame through to the upper left hand edge. The pattern stands away from the negative space, and is composed of shapes that are verging on both geometric and organic shapes. Repeating patterns result in a texture appearing in this image. 

Fig 4.

1/4 sec    f/11.0    105mm    ISO 100   AWB

Tripod utilised 

The placing of the pencils in organised, regular layers creates geometric patterns. The image is enhanced by the various textures -  smooth and rough,  and the colours - warm versus cool.   

My thoughts on this exercise

Pattern and rhythm is all about us, and bring together elements of design when composing an image. Applying pattern and rhythm correctly will determine how successful a final image is.  The correct use of rhythm draws the eye through a photograph.