Double Episode: Project52 – Weeks 9 and 10

Another double episode in this Project52 update. I’m still trying to catch up and get back to a weekly posting schedule. This update highlights my images for week 9 and week 10. The theme for week 9 is patterns and for week 10, symmetry.

Week 9 – Patterns

Patterns in photography create visually striking compositions by emphasizing structure, rhythm, and texture in both natural and abstract forms. They can appear in nature, like flowing water or cloud formations, or in man-made designs like architecture and textiles. Abstract patterns, often formed by light, shadows, or unique perspectives, add depth and intrigue. Whether repeating or irregular, patterns guide the viewer’s eye and create visual harmony, while intentional disruptions add contrast and interest.

My Project52 Week 9 Image

This image presented itself to me on a cold morning. I had an early start for work and the temperature was still below freezing. When I got to my car, I noticed the unique pattern on the bonnet (hood for our friends across the pond). Where the car had been washed and dried recently, the ice had formed these intricate, feather like patterns. The dark paintwork and early morning light gave texture to the ice and the cloudy skies provided even lighting and contrast.

This is one of my favourite images of the 2025 Project52 so far. While there was minimal effort involved in capturing this image, it does reinforce something important. Compelling images can be found anywhere, you just have to train your eyes to recognize them.

Ice Woven Patterns

Week 10 – Symmetry

Symmetry in photography creates balance, harmony, and visual stability by mirroring elements within a composition. Found in nature, architecture, reflections, and even human faces, symmetry makes images feel structured and aesthetically pleasing. It can enhance depth, draw attention to a focal point, and create a sense of order that naturally engages the viewer.

Using symmetry effectively often involves centering the subject or aligning key elements along an axis. whether vertical, horizontal, or radial. However, breaking symmetry intentionally can introduce contrast and tension, adding intrigue to an image. By experimenting with angles, reflections, and framing, photographers can use symmetry to create striking and dynamic compositions.

My Project52 Week 8 Image

The Jakobskreuz. Pillersee, Austria

Once again, I have dipped into my archive to find an image for the week 10 challenge. This image was taken while on holiday in Austria. We had driven through the Pillersee valley several times and seen the Jakobskreuz several times from the road. On this particular occasion we decided to stop and visit.

The structure is architecturally stunning. Standing just under 30m tall and constructed near the summit of the Buchensteinwand mountain, 1462m above sea level. It’s clad with wooden shingles on the outside which contrasts the modern interior.

The photograph is taken near the base looking up at the structure, giving a unique perspective. While I do love this image, it also frustrates me. If you study the image, you will see it’s not quite symmetrical. My position on the ground is just off centre. I have spent a lot of time in LightRoom and Photoshop and I just can’t get this image perfect. On the other hand, maybe that’s part of the reason I love this image. Who knows. Perhaps, someday, I can go back and have another go at capturing it.

Wrapping Up This Double Episode

As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, I am still trying to catch up with these updates. I am trying to create new images each week for this year’s Project52 but life is not cooperating. Both of these images are pulled from my back catalogue.

Hopefully this will be the last double episode of the Project52 for a while, but I’m not promising anything. There are still another 42 weeks to go. I have almost caught back up to the weekly subjects now. From here I want to make more of an effort to create new images.

As always, thanks for stopping by and taking time to read my ramblings. If you have any questions or advice, please leave me a comment below.

See you in the next Project52 update.

Andy Signature