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Patterns in Nature Photography
by Phil McDermott
http://www.redstartphotography.com
"Always remember the importance of detail". I can still
clearly hear these words that were repeatedly drummed home
by my college lecturer. Whilst they seemed unimportant and
irrelevant to me at the time, they have over the years
taken on a much greater significance and have become
ingrained in my philosophy and nature photography.
This attention to detail undoubtedly brings wonder and is
certainly worth taking a little time for a closer look.
Indeed when this attention is applied to even the most
commonplace of nature subjects there is clearly an
extraordinary display of beauty and orderliness to be
found. These combine to create patterns in nature that
require only an observant and discerning eye to behold.
This vision instils a lasting appreciation of the
simplicity and beauty of the natural world and with this
understanding and harmony there is everlasting enjoyment.
The natural world in all its glory has a myriad of
examples for us to photograph but we can start with the
common things that we tend to overlook. Simply because of
their familiarity they offer the very best opportunity for
observation. Here we can find patterns in nature that can
be circular, linear and random or indeed a combination of
all three. Sometimes they are obvious and sometimes they
require a little effort and imagination to search out.
Nature is full of patterns that interact and play off of
each other that are well worth seeing. They offer a
different view on our world, that if we are honest, with
our ever-increasing hectic lifestyle we often take for
granted. With a discerning eye for detail, pattern and
colour we can look at any natural object as simply a
series of shapes composed of lines, curves and circles.
Then consider ways in which these shapes and patterns
relate with one another. Often it is this interaction that
provides such a rich and diverse array of patterns that
can satisfy even the most inquisitive amongst us and
provide the opportunity for unique photo subjects.
Finding patterns in nature is not all that difficult.
Though to derive the most pleasure it requires an open
mind, an almost childlike curiosity and imagination. Let
us take for example the ubiquitous nasturtium that is so
common in our summer gardens. It is such an attractive
plant and yet one that is so often taken for granted. Why
not find a little time to take a closer look and consider
some of the intriguing patterns that are revealed. In the
case of the nasturtium leaf I see it resembling a wheel
with the raised leaf veins representing the spokes
radiating from the centre. It portrays a solid and unified
structure. One that is not dissimilar to the mechanics of
a spider's web with all the components working together
for each other. Furthermore the interplay of light can
create further patterns, accentuating textures and other
intricacies within the leaf adding more definition to the
subtleties and nuances contained therein.
A similar pattern can also be found in a single rose. The
rose has long been recognised as an emblem of simplicity
and one of our most loved and beautiful flowers. The
pattern emerges as the petals radiate spirally outwards
from the centre and one is almost drawn into its glorious
depths. With this power it is little wonder it is the
flower of love.
Very often natural objects contain patterns within
patterns that are only revealed by looking further and
further into the subject. Indeed, nature is very generous
and only too pleased to welcome us in to see all her
glory. You can be assured that she will allow the very
closest of inspections and will not disappoint.
With this renewed awareness a simple nature photography
walk takes on new meaning. Just recently whilst walking on
the beach I was attracted to the patterns of sand left
behind as the water retreated down the beach with each
wave. The patterns that were created suggest energy and
motion reflecting both the fluidity and continuity of the
ebbing tide. This happens twice a day and has been doing
so for countless years in the natural world but it is
interesting that almost identical patterns can be found
after each tide. I find this repetition intriguing as it
shows a consistency throughout the ages. However, even
though the patterns in nature may reoccur, the colours and
reflections change dramatically with the changing light,
time of day and weather conditions. So even a visit to the
same place will always provide something new and fresh to
contemplate and challenge the mind.
Patterns are not only confined to small objects but are
also there to be found in the grand scenic view and again
it is the ability to really see that is all that is
required. The juxtaposition of harsh and soft, light and
dark or straight and irregular are all combinations that
reveal patterns. It is possible to find patterns in nature
by simply isolating part of a larger scene. For example a
lonely section of mountainside adorned with the golden
flames of a single autumn tree can offer a very simple and
often starkly dramatic pattern. Or it may be the randomly
fallen leaves that decorate the woodland floor creating an
abstract pattern whilst golden shafts of sunlight
penetrate through the wooded canopy above to enhance their
beauty.
There are also many patterns within the world's fauna; a
giraffe or zebra for example clearly exhibit very striking
patterns. In these examples they are patterns with a
purpose namely for camouflage and defence. Closer to home,
however, a simple feather can show wonderful linear
patterns with the shaft, barb and barbules and their
interlocking hooks combining together to provide both
strength and flexibility. In particular the feathers of
the much-maligned magpie have an iridescent sheen and
offer wonderful colours to enhance the strong diagonal
pattern.
So, with renewed vision and childlike wonder the natural
world is without doubt a beautiful place that only
requires time and an inquisitive mind to fully appreciate.
With all the negatives that abound it is reassuring to
know that satisfaction and contentment can be provided by
the most simple of things.
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