January 2026 Photo Contest Winners: Rhythm and Repetition

[Dahlia Ambrose]

We’re happy to announce the winner of January’s competition, “Rhythm And Repetition.”

The “Rhythm And Repetition” Photo Contest

Rhythm and repetition are two factors that can bring visual interest to a photograph and can also help with powerful compositions. Repetition as the word says can be repeating shapes, colours, lines, textures, etc., whereas rhythm is how these repeating elements are arranged, giving interest, mood and certain order to the image.

Rhythmic repetitions can be found everywhere around us in nature and in manmade structures. Repeating patterns are interesting to look at and they are visually engaging while also directing the viewer to a particular point.

Rhythm can be slightly confusing, and it does not need to be at identical intervals or distances, while having it at identical intervals can look pleasing to the eye. Rhythms as a result can be regular, alternating, random, etc., but the most important factor is to use them wisely to capture a perfect and compelling image.

Some of the ways in which repetition and rhythm can be captured are through repetitive patterns found in nature to create a sense of rhythm and flow, exploring urban environments to photograph the rhythm found in architectural patterns and structures, focusing on the repetition of textures in both natural and man-made objects or photographing subjects in motion, using repetition and slow shutter speed to convey a sense of dynamic rhythm.

When choosing the winning photos, we wanted to make sure that the decision process was based on a good interpretation of the theme, followed by other factors like light, composition, story, details, creative vision, etc. The results are entirely subjective and there are no losers in any competition as we all know.

Here are January’s Winners:

First Place: “Staring Zebra Close Up” by Kim B @KimBailey

Staring Zebra Close Up – Copyright Kim B

Kim captured this stunning photo of a Zebra with striking repetitive patterns and has composed the image in a way the focus is limited to the repeating patterns and the rhythm created as a result. Keeping just the eyes in the frame has allowed the viewer to focus on the interesting patterns and how they work as a powerful compositional tool.

The lines on the face of the Zebra are almost symmetrical, with a regular rhythm of the repetitive lines. The lines lead to the eyes of the Zebra from above and below, making it an effective compositional tool. The lines on the Zebra’s body, although are similar and of the same colour, are bolder, creating a visual weight in the frame.

Congratulations on capturing a very effective Rhythm and Repetition photo Kim!

Second Place: “Faith from the Inside Out” by Stefanie Markham @stef

Faith from the Inside Out – Copyright Stefanie Markham

Stefanie has captured a very visually striking image of a church with stunning repetitive patterns and rhythm. Here is a small description to the image shared by Stefanie, for anyone who is interested:

“Temppeliaukio Church in Helsinki, Finland is fondly known as the Church of the Rock. The church was built by two brothers who were architects and opened in 1969. Services are still held there today. The outside is very nondescript, even the cross is difficult to see. However, when you walk inside you are greeted with so much texture and light that it takes your breath away.”

Stefanie has chosen a very interesting perspective to frame the church through the structure in the foreground. The regular repetition and rhythm makes this photo visually appealing along with the light that hits the surface of the foreground structure.

Stefanie has also made use of good exposure techniques where the foreground, the middle ground and the background are correctly exposed. The layers also add good depth and dimension to the image.

Congratulations Stefanie on this beautiful photo of a landmark that has huge historical and architectural significance.

Third Place: “Quebec Pub, Open For Business” by Jerre P @JerreP

Quebec Pub, Open For Business – Copyright Jerre P

Jerre submitted a very interesting photo of a pub showcasing its interior architecture and design. The contrast in the photo is quite striking with the vibrant gold and copper tones against a black background which are the walls, cabinets and the ceiling.

All elements in the frame, right from the structural ceiling, the lights, the display units, chairs have interesting repetition and rhythm in their own way. The light is just right to illuminate the necessary areas in the frame and the symmetry makes the image look neat and visually appealing.

Congratulations Jerre on this beautiful submission.

People’s Choice Award Winner

Our monthly photo contests also come with a People’s Choice Award. The winner of this part of the contest receives $100 worth of store credit on Light Stalking which they can spend as they please on our blueprints, drills, courses or Presets.

Suspended Rhythm – Copyright Frogdaily

The most popular photo for January, voted by the contestants was “Suspended Rhythm” by Frogdaily @frogdaily. The title is just right to describe this visual treat which is quite difficult to capture.

The dynamic mood is evident in the photo with the 3D shapes adding so much visual interest to the image. The repetition and rhythm have been frozen at the right time and the beautiful colours stand out against the dark background. Congratulations Frogdaily on this beautiful submission.

cc: @admin-2

[Pat Garrett]

Congratulations everyone! Wonderful, creative, thoughtful  winners!

[Wendy P]

An excellent selection of winners. Congratulations to all!

[Kim B]

Thank you! I’m excited to see this.  This was my first entry at LS. I love all of the winning images. 😎

[Author]

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