Patterns in Nature
By: Phil McDermott
 “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.
Redstart Photography
Redstart photography by Phil McDermott based on the
Isle of Mull in the west of Scotland specialising in
nature and environmental photography.
http://www.redstartphotography.com
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