Interference

Build a large pattern from small differences

Moiré Fields intersects independent line frequencies, revealing broad bands within the finer structure. Changing their frequency difference changes the large pattern as well as the small lines. This makes it useful for compositions that need a visible relationship between detail and overall shape.

Optical Lattice bends a checker structure through image-driven swelling and recession. It gives a regular grid a different spatial character from the beat patterns of overlapping lines. Compare both at the final viewing size, where fine structures can combine or disappear.

• Moiré Fields
• Optical Lattice

Let the source steer the optical language

Contour Bands traces repeated luminance boundaries. Line Field steers constant-width marks with local image direction. Figure Ground exchanges positive and negative regions across a counter-pattern. These effects use different information from the source, so the same photograph can become contour, directional texture, or alternating regions.

Chromatic Phase maps tone through competing color waves. Use it when color repetition should be a strong part of the image, rather than adding it merely because a monochrome pattern feels unfinished. A limited visual idea with clear contrast can be more compelling than several competing patterns.

• Contour Bands
• Line Field
• Figure Ground
• Chromatic Phase

Treat scale as part of the composition

Sources with broad tonal shapes let you see how image and pattern influence each other. Already dense textures may make it difficult to identify either. A simple silhouette, gradient, or abstract painting is a useful starting point for comparing the pattern families.

Review the actual size people will see, not just the enlarged working view. Small counter-patterns change when reduced, and a highly active background can compete with lettering. Reserve a quiet region or separate title layer when the design needs readable information as well as optical activity.