Repetition

Put simply, repetition is the use of patterns to focus on a single object that reoccurs within a photograph. Despite the fact that repetition is generally lackluster in daily life, using it in photography can have a strong effect on an image.

Importance. Repeating an object or shape throughout the photo gives it instant composition and grabs the attention of the viewer. Patterns are found all around us, particularly in architectural design such as the brick walls of a house, the rungs of a fence, or the suspension cables of a bridge. Repetition can, of course, also be found in other locations and structures and is often used to make the picture appear as if the object will continue forever. Understanding how to use these forms of repetition is critical to produce an abstract-looking photo.

Method. The key to achieving a pattern-focused photo is to zoom in close enough to the pattern so that it fills the frame and makes the repetition seem as though it's bursting out (even if the repeated object stops just outside the frame of the photograph).

Variation. Though repeating the same or similar objects over and over within a photo makes an image abstract, this technique can be furthered still by throwing in an outlier to the pattern. For example, if the photographer has chosen to photograph a scene of transparent blue marbles, he may decide to throw in a red one to create a break in the pattern. In doing this, the viewer still notices the repetition of the marbles, but his attention is drawn to the signle red one, giving the photo a sense of isolation or individuality.