Patterns in nature have always caught my eye. That is probably no surprise, I think they attract many photographers because they offer a sense of harmony, a sense of connection. They don’t have to be big, and don’t have to be small – just simply be there in front of me. . . Usually that can be asking for a lot, since most of what we view in the natural world can be somewhat chaotic.
This image of beach rocks is one I have been wanting to make for awhile. I find the unique character of each stone interesting Out of camera, the image wasn’t quite complete – it didn’t provide exactly what I was looking for. Since the rocks were closely uniform in color and tone, I had to try to process it in a way to bring out the uniqueness of each rock They needed to provide the overall appearance of a pattern, yet still hold individuality. . . Layer after layer it finally started taking on the look I wanted. . With post-processing, patterns can take on limitless versions from the same base image.
Patterns on a grander scale require the photographer to remove them from their environment through composition and lens choice In contrast to the above beach rocks, this segment of a rock wall is probably 10 feet high It is a real exercise in seeing, because it is not always so easy to pick them out. . I have noticed that patterns that are too uniform with little to break them up can be a bit static . Just being a pattern may be initially interesting, but can quickly become boring visually if there isn’t something to hold interest. It has happened to me many times. I get excited in the field in finding some unique pattern, and photograph it. Later on in review is when I say to myself – “Boy, that kinda looks like crap.”. 
. It is something that I now try to be wary of when composing – look for the pattern, but then try to frame in some type of focal point or interruption to repetition. It helps your eye from wandering aimlessly around the frame and creates a bit more interest.
Hi, Mark -
Too funny – I was out today trying to find patterns in rock at a sandstone bluff near here. Still processing, but I know already that I didn’t find anything to compare with your Pictured Rocks images – you do beautiful work.
- Jack
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Jack Johnson
http://www.jackjohnsonphoto.com
Hi Mark, both images are great and very different although kind of on the same subject. I do find the big rock wall more painterly and abstract with some beautiful tones whereas the other image is more literal to my eye. But very good point about some sort of imperfection in a pattern or some other form of focal point to hold interest for longer. Great images here (as is the top web image – may be random – with all the birds against what looks like a sunset sky!).
Mark,
I especially like the first image. I find that I can really lose myself in an image like that. It’s very sensual both in a visual and almost textural way. It also has a very zen feeling to it. Nicely done. These are more challenging than I believe most people realize.
Hey Mark
Both of these images are gorgeous, but the first one is sublime – really a beautiful photo.
Cheers
Carl
Beautiful images Mark, I really love the first one the textures and shapes are wonderful in it !!!
Thanks guys – I really appreciate your comments.
Paul – I was probably in a bit of a Zen mood working on that image as well! I think that one had a little previsualization helping it.
Thomas – I agree – each has its place.
Carl, Bernie, Jack – thanks guys!
Very beautiful
I couldn’t begin to pick my favorite of these ”it’s the one I am looking at at any given moment. But, I have to say this, the rock with the almost perfect white inner “frame” is part of what makes the first one sublime for me (of course, your framing and placement of that “jewel” sets it off perfectly.) Part of the beauty of your work is that you make what is quite challenging looks so doable.
Both these pictures make me want to forget about cleaning cabinets, emptying boxes, arranging and rearranging things in closets, and looking for lost items. What the heck? Why not just go out looking for patterns and put off this moving-in business until next week ”or next month for that matter.
Anita, that particular rock is the one that I thought would ‘break’ the patten that I mentioned in the post. One of those beach walks where a particular rock immediately catches your eye… Thank you very much!
Your rock photos inspired me to take one of my own while I was out for a walk after Gustav passed (& before the flood began.) I’ll have to post it to my blog someday. I think it’s pretty cool.
Another great abstract capture of a well thought out photo.
That Pattern is really nice, is it free to use?
Gitarre, no, sorry, it is not free to use. Thanks though…