Texture adds a bit of reality and interest to any photograph. A photo is, after all, a flat, two-dimensional surface. It has height and width but the depth part of it is an illusion that can be created in a number of ways. The area of sharp focus, or depth of field, can be manipulated with camera controls. Linear distortion occurs where foreground objects appear larger than those in the background, just as they do with human vision, and this is enhanced or decreased with the use of wide-angle or telephoto lenses. Human vision occurs with two eyes and each eye sees from a slightly different point of view. Parallax, as it is called (the distance between your eyes), allows us to see in depth. 3-D movies are made with two lenses set slightly apart. Unfortunately you need to have special glasses to view the finished film. Manufacturers are currently working feverishly, if you believe the industry hype, on 3-D television. Personally, I don't think it will fly—not at my house anyway.
A simple way to give some dimensionality to a photo as in the image above of the Virginia Creeper is to reveal texture. This was done in this case by using the success formula of all good photographs, the quality of light.
Additionally, the photo above is helped by the use of the natural contrast between the red leaves and the rock and the fact that the leaves are casting a slight shadow. Where texture exists, it is always an important aspect of the photograph. When you have interesting light you will more often than not have a successful photograph.
Just a reminder here: While viewing this blog you may click on any image and see it full screen. These images have been reduced from their original size for posting but they still stand up fairly well in quality in the larger size.
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