Introduction:
For this final exercise before the main assignment, we are asked to supply two photos, at least one of each to represent Rhythm and one for Pattern.
Rhythm in photography refers to the regular repeating occurrence of elements in the scene, similar to how
musical rhythm involves the regular occurrence of certain musical notes. The repetition
of similar shapes or lines sets up a rhythm that makes seeing easier and more enjoyable to the viewer. For best effect rhythm also requires some variability. Images composed with some varitaion work better.
For pattern a repetitive pattern that fills the frame gives the impression that the pattern is massive and goes beyond the image even if the pattern or repetition is only enough to fill viewfinder or frame. Adding a break in the pattern can help break up the composition and help emphasise the image. The root word of repetition is defined as“repeat”.
Process:
(Click on any image to enlarge)
[192]
Montblanc
This image of a shirt shows strong contrast with the white and black pattern of the shirt. The addition of the Montblanc pen helps to break up the pattern slightly which is a better way to show pattern. I placed the shirt near my window for natural light, then added the folds in the shirt to create more contrast in the shadow areas. Pattern is also present in the shape of the stitching on the pocket.
[193]
Shisha Pipes
This is shot close up to restrict the outer area, thus helping the eye to follow the repeating lines of the Shisha pipes outside a restaurant. The black and white image actually works better than the colour, as the high reflective silver blends well with the contrasting shadows.
Conclusion:
With patterns I learnt that the most common way to keep repetition from becoming boring is to deliberately break the pattern. I could have shot the shirt pattern, and only the that. I don’t think it would have worked so well without the addition of the pen.Much like a fruit stand with an entire box of big red apples, if we take one apple and replace it with an orange this breaks the pattern and creates interest without making the image boring.
Rhythm is a very important part of visual composition. Its important to control the rhythm elements of visual composition. A small number of similar elements will be perceived as a single group, but rhythm requires enough similar elements to be perceived as several groups, as in the photo of the Shisha pipe.
Rhythm and pattern can be seen in most, if not every picture, even if at first we don’t see it.
O.C.A. BA (hons) Photography Degree Course 