It is a good thing to have a distinct subject in contrast with the background. This allows the subject to have well defined edges that make it stand out from the rest of the picture. But not all photos have to be the same. Creating a rhythm between all the image’s elements works very well in many cases. Using this technique will make the observer travel through the whole photo very smoothly.

Think of poetry or songs and the role rhymes play in both of them. Patterns must exist inside the photograph to allow smooth transitions between the objects . Any repetitive element (shapes, objects, colors…etc.) if used correctly, will add some sort of rhythm. The result is a relaxing photo on which the observer can rest his eyes while checking it.

Patterns are everywhere, and they can be created easily too. Rows of street light posts, trees in forests, leaves on trees, the possibilities are quite endless. Patterns can even be created out of unrelated objects having similar curves, lines, or colors. Look closer (literally) and you will find even more patterns. This is because many solid objects at very close range will show some sort of repeated textures on their surfaces.

While patterns are good compositional tools, they don’t always seem as good in simple compositions. So, breaking a pattern is sometimes desired too. Photos with missing elements inside a repetition are usually very interesting, as they will leave the observer thinking. Also, repetitions can be used as a distinctive tool between the background forming the pattern and the foreground containing the subject. As a result, the point of interest will be on the subject.

A rhythm of colors can also be created. Strong contrasts are substituted by different shades of a dominant color, or by the employment of different colors in harmony with each others. The principle relies upon creating a comfortable feel in which the subject blends smoothly with the background.

The placement of objects inside a composition affect the rhythm of the photograph in a big way too. For instance, the position of an object can relate to the subject of the image, or that different objects may be arranged in a way that they form a pattern. These two techniques can be employed in many different ways, with different objects, and in different scenes.

The process of producing photos with rhythm may seem a little difficult to grasp, as it is a bit different from other compositional approaches. However, one thing is for sure that after understanding the process, you will begin to find more patterns around you.

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