Many DIY forums have pictures of decks and patio projects. Also, you can chat with other DIY'ers who are doing the same projects as you to bounce ideas off of. If all else fails, go to magazines or your public library. Or even try a contractor who has done this before.
You can view pictures of outdoor decks and patios online. Here are some of sites that offers pictures: nadra.org/photo_gallery.html, www.hgtv.com Outdoors Decks, Patios, Porches and Pools.
Home improvement stores such as Lowe's or Home Depot have many magazines for sale that offer pictures of decks and patios. These magazines are very informative and are reasonably priced.
You can find many pictures of decks and patios online by visiting manufacturing websites. There, you will be able to see dimensions and other important parts of building a patio.
Many contractors and construction companies have pictures of completed projects on their websites that you can view and get ideas from. Or join a forum where people share pictures of their completed projects.
Backyard deck and patio pictures are used in catalogs to show what they will look like. You should view them when you are certain you want to build a deck or patio but beforehand you should have a few ideas in mind.
Michael Landis has written: 'Patios & decks' -- subject(s): Decks (Architecture, Domestic), Patios
The HGTV website has an entire section on deck designs. They have pictures of decks and landscaping for decks and patios. The DIY network also have a number of deck designs the pictures on both sites can give you great ideas.
www.ask.com/Pictures+Of+Patios Has a lot of pictures of patios and also design ideas for your perusal. American home magazine and Better Homes and Gardens will have pictures in their magazines and on line. There will be books of pictures available at Home Depot or Lowes for purchase these usually have design ideas as well.
HGTV.com is a site specifically designed for home improvement ideas. There are specific sections for patio and deck designs, complete with fully colored pictures.
Concrete patios a typically cheaper then wooden decks. Concrete patios are made to resist winter weather. Wooden decks require treating, and cleaning. If the question if over price, then I would go with the patios, cheaper in the long run.
You can find about where you can find information about decks and patios and read information to compare prices on the internet or go to your local shops and en quire about it there.
If your just looking for pictures to use as ideas "decks.com" and "nadra.org" are great online web sites to look at. If you are looking for more detail try "TimberTech.com". They offer pictures and designs for decks and patios.