Texture – How to reveal it in your Images!

It is my opinion, that one of the most effective ways to show detail,and make photograph appear life like is  emphasize texture.  But how do you make the most of the natural texture that exists in the subject?  Let me walk you through several steps I consider when photographing,  each with an illustrating shot;

(1.) Start with a subject that has interesting surface texture, like the rain drops on this leaf. Smooth surfaces have very little discernible texture, but  droplets,  from a sprinkler,  add texture to the surface of the leaf.

(2.)  Be sure that the light is at such and angle that it casts shadows, in most instances shadows are the best indicator of surface texture as in the name plate on and old Hudson car in Old Car City.  The second image of a hood name plate on a fire engine shot in monochrome is receiving much stronger light and thus revealing even more texture.

(3.)  When light is overcast and thus no shadows appear, the contrast in color will help reveal texture as in the two images below shot on overcast days.  The old license plates on a textured wooden wall below are perfect because of the already rich texture in the subject.  The  shot below that of the garage door with the peeling white paint, derives it’s contrast from the stark black, grey, and white surface, which highlights the texture.

(4.)  Another form of contrast is color contrast, which leads to the accenting texture as in the old gas pump below that I found in Sturgis, South Dakota.  I added NIK Color Efex 4 filter, Tonal Contrast to even further pop the contrast in the texture.

(5.)  In the image below the two types of surfaces in the flight jacket, smooth leather and the wool lining set up a comparison of textures.  This image has very slight side lighting which helps the smoother textures stand out.

(6.)  Rough surfaces are often the most effective for images in which the real subject is the texture!   I found the sled held up by a large rusted chain in an outdoor art gallery of metal works just outside the borders of Mount Rainier N.P. in Washington state.  We had 20 students and five instructors and everyone came away with great texture images!

A good habit to form is making yourself aware of the texture around you as you walk around looking for images.  You will find that the pursuit of texture will be a rewarding experience and the possibilities are endless!

A daily walk with our Lord will add the texture to life, that makes it so much more meaningful!

blessings,

the pilgrim

Photo Note:  All images with Fuji X System cameras, and Fujinon lenses.

I love rusted metal for contrast and texture!