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Examples of textures and patterns by David

This week’s Zoom online meeting theme was textures and patterns. Each member submitted a single image on the theme, plus an optional second image showing the out-of-camera image prior to editing so we could all see how the editing steps improved the image.

We saw an interesting range of approaches from images which were primarily about existing texture and pattern (such as close ups of decorative features from the Alhambra and external art work from mosques) to images that showed how with careful choice of viewpoint and framing it is possible to create patterns from everyday objects (a picture of shelves bearing colourful ceramics and another showing a cluster of multicolour corn cobs displayed in a market). One of members specialises in creating digital art works by manipulating photos in the Affinity editor, and this week he showed a before-and-after pair featuring a simple B&W image of a security barrier distorted into a repeating abstract of B&W lines and curves. Another member demonstrated a sharp eye for an image with his quite subtle image of a stone patio that had been infiltrated with bright green moss, producing a garden maze effect in miniature. Another approach followed by a couple of members was simple repetition. One image featured an art deco wall light fitting that cast curving diffraction-pattern style lines on the wall; another showed a picture of colourist industrial museum sculpture featuring triplicated structures.

Members assessed the photographic merit of the images in a positive and encouraging manner and we considered as a group what changes might improve the images. There were also lively side-discussions including some background history of some of the architectural and industrial elements on display and personal anecdotes about life in Spain!

About the photo group

Our u3a Bromley photo group differs from most camera clubs in that we focus on sharing, enjoying and appreciating images in a non-competitive environment – no competitions! For anyone in the Bromley area who is interested in finding out more about the group, I’ll be posting articles with a personal slant about how I’m getting on with the group.

Information about our activities is available on our u3a official site page, including details of how to contact our group leader and book yourself in for free taster sessions: https://www.u3abromley.org.uk/activities-camera_club.html or you email Norman directly on normskiu3a@gmail.com.