Patterns are formed when lines, shapes, or colors are repeated. Typically, a photographer uses patterns to create a sense of harmony. At the same time, other feelings can arise from photographs that show patterns. Texture appeals to our sense of touch. When used in a photo, texture adds a feeling of realism to the image.

Because of their strong visual impact, even the slightest suggestion of a pattern can catch our eye, especially when the elements join together by chance. Look for patterns in your own world, and begin experimenting with them to see what effects you can achieve. For example, vertical lines are everywhere. Try to find places where these lines repeat in some kind of progression. Bear in mind that a pattern alone can make for a dull photo. Be sure that a pattern is strong enough to stand alone before you make a photo of only pattern. Often, you'll want to include additional elements to provide visual interest. For example, you can pose a person against an interesting pattern.

When repeating picture elements are used effectively, they create a visual rhythm, a kind of visual music. This can add energy and activity to a static picture. This rhythm can be the subject matter of the photograph or it can be the background.

You can utilize texture to portray the nature of a surface: rough, smooth, jagged, bumpy, and so forth. Texture gives a three-dimensional sense to an image, causing the elements to be seen as forms. It helps the viewer perceive the heaviness and bulk, softness or hardness, and roughness or smoothness of the objects.

Even though there is an interesting texture in your photograph, it may not photograph properly. With texture, lighting is critical. Front lighting hides texture; side lighting reveals it. Also, the light might show the texture in one part and not show it in another.

A curtain yields a distinctive pattern that could be part of a composition.

Texture is just about everywhere, even in this breakfast cereal, and it is an important part of photographic imagery.