An Abstract Idea

We continue Wednesday's discussion of pattern and rhythm in photography with the abstract image for illustration.

 

^ The final shot.  The rhythmic patterns of the secondary triangular structures in the background were attuned to the pyramid shape placed in the middle of the frame, hopefully forming a point of interest. Explanations to follow.

Pattern and rhythm hold important positions in photographic composition. The souls of composition they are. Pattern is the regular repetition of elements, while rhythm is the sentimental kind of pattern. Despite the fundamental difference, both are made up of lines, shapes, the change in shadows and colours.

Making use of the patterns, photographers can apply subjectivity to the composition to create a rhythm to accentuate a meaning, not least in an abstract image. More directly put, patterns can give rise to rhythm; and rhythm is the higher form of patterns.

But all coins have two sides. If unduly employed, patterns can make an image monotonous and boring. A case in point is an image lacking a point of interest among the repetitive patterns. For that matter, the use of secondary subjects, contrastive elements, prominent features and other photographic arrangements may be advisable.

The abstract photos may serve to illustrate the point.

< The first shot
The triangular masts in the images are the structures of barges for mid-stream operations which are flat-bottom boats to carry containers from offshore cargo liners to the docks. There were several ways and angles to do the composition which was meant to reflect the impression of the scene, trusty partners of the thriving business operations.

Instead of including the activities at the dock in the image, the composition was made to curtail but the triangular elements. These elements are more intriguing because pyramid shapes give a sense of endurance, stability and superiority, befitting the theme. At the same time, the peaceful horizontal lines among them complement the image and the overtones.

 

< The second shot
Two shots had been made but the images were unruly and the primary subject not prominent.

 

Finally, the rhythmic patterns of the secondary triangular structures in the background were attuned to the pyramid shape placed in the middle of the frame, hopefully forming a point of interest.  The final image was formatted into a 16:9 ratio to highlight its visual impact.