Photo Challenge – Week 5: Natural Designs

It’s hard to believe that we are already on week five of the Outdoor Photography Guide Photo Challenge! This week, David Johnston shares tips for photographing natural designs. If you haven’t officially signed up to receive the weekly photo assignments via email, be sure to do so here.

Week 5: Natural Designs

Natural designs are literally the most difficult genre of outdoor photography for me to shoot. They are both real and abstract in the sense that you’re shooting physical subjects, but doing so in a way that reveals abstract designs that already exist in nature. Natural designs can be photographed using wide angle lenses, telephoto lenses, and macro lenses. When you’re starting out shooting natural designs, look for clustered shapes in nature that create patterns and contrasting tones. If there’s anything I’ve learned, this is a technique that doesn’t come easy to everyone and may take some practice. Be sure to watch the ground as you’re looking for designs. You may be surprised at what you see under your feet.

Don’t forget to share your photos of this week’s assignment in the Outdoor Photography Guide Photo Challenge Facebook group! This is also a great place to connect with fellow photographers and share tips during the challenge.

Inspiration Gallery by David Johnston