Understanding Abstract Photography

Do you really understand what abstract photography is? Do you know what makes it different from all other forms of photography? Why should you consider capturing abstract images on camera when you can devote your time and skills on some other form of photography instead? If you want to learn more about abstract photography and what makes it click, then please read the rest of the article.

What is Abstract Photography?

While there is no exact definition for this form of photography, let us establish that abstract photography is a technique that puts primary importance to form, color, line and texture over everything else. With abstract photography, content and composition may be immaterial. What’s important is that the image expresses the photographer’s creativity and captures the viewers’ eyes. Interpretation can very well come later.

Abstract photography requires you to see things in a different light. It requires you to get out of your comfort zone and jump out of the box. However, photographing abstract images, when done right, can help you come up with some very powerful images – images that appeal to our most basic instincts. And that is one great reason why you should consider doing it.

While it basically works on a no holds barred and everything goes principle, there are three essential elements that play a significant role in abstract photography – form, color and curves. Let us see how each of these elements affects the quality of your abstract photos, shall we?

Form. In abstract photography, form (or shape) serves as the structure of an image. It can very well be considered as the heart of an image. As such, you should always choose subjects with interesting, pleasing and dynamic forms. So, how do you know that you have a form that is worth photographing? Well, if you see something and you get really excited about it, then you can be sure you have something special.

Color. While form serves as the heart of an abstract image, color provides an added depth and dimension to your images. It can help draw and hold your viewers’ attention and stimulate their senses as well. In general, using saturated and contrasting colors in this type of photography can best serve your purpose.

Curves. You can use curves to help spice up your images. It can help point your viewers’ eyes to the image’s center of interest and keep it there.

Shooting Abstract Photography – Some Tips in Doing It Right

Trust your instincts. In shooting abstract photos, the most important thing you need to remember is to keep your eyes open for interesting subject matters. Let your instincts guide you in choosing your subject.

Look at things on a completely different angle. Abstract photography requires you to look at things a little bit differently. It requires you to take something familiar and photograph it in such a way that it would be taken out of its original context. So, look through things more carefully. Use low and high angle shots. You may never believe how different things can be when you look at them this way.

Don’t be afraid to break the rules. Abstract photography doesn’t require you to follow any rules. As I said before, just trust your instincts and you’ll have a great chance of capturing some very interesting abstract images.

Consider going macro. Another popular technique used by most abstract photographers to capture amazing abstract photos is working in the macro mode.

Bring out the artist in you. Always remember that abstract photography is a manifestation of your personal expression and creativity so don’t expect people to see things as you do. So what if you and your viewers don’t have the same perception of an image? Wouldn’t it be a lot more interesting that way? You bet it is!

Abstract photography is an ideal way to create some very powerful images so if you are really up for the challenge, why don’t you take your camera out with you and start seeing things on a totally different light? Go on and surprise yourself! …but first see this helpful photography source of tips to make your shoot even better.

I hope this has been of some value to you.

Ray Baker