Patterns in Photography: Showcase of Beautiful Patterns

Patterns are all around us. They occur in nature, architecture, and textiles. Patterns can also be man-made for the purpose of the composition. In this sense, as a photographer, you're an artist creating work on canvas. You can create the photo you want by essentially designing a pattern or arranging items or shapes in a pattern.

There's no doubt that patterns serve as an aid for creating interesting photo compositions. Ordinary objects that contain patterns can turn into beautiful photographs, even if it may not be the first thought that comes to your mind when looking for something to photograph.

In this post, we'll showcase 20 photos from a variety of different photographers. From these examples, you'll see how simple patterns can be used effectively. Hopefully, you'll get some inspiration and ideas that can be put to good use in your own photography that features a pattern.

When photographing patterns you simply need to keep your eyes open for those patterns that exist wherever you are and create an interesting composition. In some cases, you may want to use leading lines or different angles and perspectives to create the composition of the pattern.


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Patterns in Photography: Pattern Showcase

Here are some outstanding examples of patterns in photography. If you're looking to create pattern photography of your own, you'll find plenty of ideas from these photographers you can use as inspiration.

Coming Alive by Nahil Naseer
Coming Alive by Nahil Naseer
Ceiling Pattern by Pixabay
Ceiling Pattern by Pixabay
Multicolor Pattern by Andrew Ridley
Multicolor Pattern by Andrew Ridley
Floral Pattern by Moose Photos
Floral Pattern by Moose Photos
Brick Pattern by ShonEjai
Brick Pattern by ShonEjai
Leaf Pattern by Erol Ahmed
Leaf Pattern by Erol Ahmed
Colorful Ceiling by Mitchell Luo
Colorful Ceiling by Mitchell Luo
Architecture Pattern by Robert Horvick
Architecture Pattern by Robert Horvick
Chainlink Fence by Jack Nackos
Chainlink Fence by Jack Nackos
Trees by Matthew Montrone
Trees by Matthew Montrone
Closeup Pattern by Tim Mossholder
Closeup Pattern by Tim Mossholder
Abstract Pattern Photo by Praewthida K
Abstract Pattern Photo by Praewthida K
Blue Water by Julie Aagaard
Blue Water by Julie Aagaard
Architecture Pattern by Ricardo Angel Gomez
Blueberries by Olga
Blueberries by Olga
Knitted Textile by Engin Akyurt
Knitted Textile by Engin Akyurt
Cracked Texture by Vincent Burkhead
Black & White Striped Textile by Adrien Olichon
Black & White Striped Textile by Adrien Olichon
Tile Pattern by Alice Butenko
Tile Pattern by Alice Butenko
Floral Pattern by Aida Batres
Floral Pattern with Beautiful Color by Aida Batres

Tips to Photograph Patterns Effectively

There are a few things to keep in mind when taking pattern photographs:

  1. Look for interesting patterns everywhere you go. Pattern photography ideas are everywhere, but you need to train yourself to look for them.

  2. Pay attention to nature. Nature creates abstract patterns that lead to beautiful photos, but you need to notice them and get the right composition.

  3. Photograph textures. Textures are common photography patterns, but they're easy to overlook. We're used to seeing things like bricks, tiles, blocks, and other things that are perfect when shooting pattern photography, but they're easy to miss.

  4. Use a macro lens to capture detailed patterns in flowers, leaves, or other small objects that can be enlarged in your photo.

By keeping these pattern photography tips in mind, you'll drastically improve your results. Best of all, these tips aren't that difficult. It's just a matter of consciously implementing them as you're working and you'll find plenty of opportunities.

Photography Tips for Composition to Create Beautiful Pattern Photos

Here are some tips specifically related to composition, which can be one of the biggest challenges with pattern photography.

  1. Use leading lines and angles to create a more interesting composition. You'll guide the viewer's eye and you may be able to create repetitive patterns.

  2. Experiment with perspective to find the most interesting angle. Sometimes just a small change will lead to a much better photograph.

  3. Focus on the patterns created by the light and shadows. Regardless of what your subject is, light plays a huge role in photography. Using light to make patterns can be an extremely effective approach to composition.

Final Thoughts on Pattern Photography

If you're just starting out in photography, then undoubtedly pattern photography is something that sounds intriguing. Don't worry—it's not as difficult as it might sound. All you need to do is pay attention when you're taking photos and look for interesting patterns.

You can train yourself to recognize these opportunities by practicing with different types of patterns like objects or nature. Remember the composition tips above and soon enough this type of photography will become second nature to you!