Abstract photography can create very impressive photos. However, people tend to perceive abstract images differently than other images. This is because abstract images rely more on form, color, and curves than they do on image detail. On the other hand, most photographers tend to think more about detail when considering photographic subjects. To recognize abstract photography opportunities, one must learn to look at our world differently.
Definition of Abstract Photography
Abstract photography does not have a universally accepted definition. At first, this may seem odd. On the other hand, it is not easy to create a precise definition of an abstract concept. Nevertheless, for this article, it is important to create a definition so that there will be some borders around the topic. The definition makes it easier to decide what falls within the realm of abstract photography. For our purposes, abstract photography is defined as any photography that:
* Does not represent the subject in a literal way.
* Communicates primarily through form, color, and curves rather than image detail.
Why Shoot Abstract Photography
Before we start creating any images, it is important to understand why we should even consider creating abstract images. After all, there are plenty of other photographic opportunities out there.
There are two primary reasons. First, as was previously mentioned, abstract photography can create very impressive images. This is really all the justification that is needed. Then again, there is another reason. Opportunities for abstract images can be found just about anywhere. So, we can create abstract images at home and around our neighborhood. It isn’t necessary to travel to other locations to capture images (as is the case with many other types of photography such as landscape photography).
Essentials
Abstract photography has three essentials: form, color, and curves. To create impressive abstract images, it is important to think in these terms.
Form: Form refers to the shape of objects. Form functions as the structure upon which an abstract image is created. Fundamentally, form creates the heart of an image while color and curves add enrichment. Consequently, it is very important that an abstract image begin with good form. This can be accomplished by selecting objects with pleasing, interesting, or dynamic shapes.
Now, it might be tempting to want a definition or list of what makes for good form. However, it must be remembered that abstract photography is an instinctual art form — people react to it emotionally not logically. Thus, it is essential that form be approached in the same manner. It is necessary to find objects with forms that create an emotional reaction. When one looks at an object and immediately reacts, “Wow, look at that”, a strong form has probably been found.
Color: Color grabs the attention of the viewer and stimulates the viewer’s perceptual system. Not only does color grab the viewer’s attention, it also serves to hold the viewer’s attention for an extended period of time. If the viewer’s eyes do wander, the color tends to bring the attention back.
Using a saturated or intense color is one approach to using color. Another approach is to use colors that contrast.
Curves: Curves can help to spice up an abstract image. That is because curves control the movement of the viewer’s eyes. There are a couple of ways that curves can be used. First, curves can add interest by helping to guide the viewer’s attention to an image’s center of interest. The result is a stronger center of interest and a better image.
The second way that curves can add interest is somewhat more subtle. In this case, the curves don’t point at the center of interest. Instead, the curves course through the image in an elegant or dynamic way. Despite the fact that the curves do not point toward the center of interest, they nevertheless function to control the viewer’s eyes. With this approach, the viewer’s attention will travel back and forth along the curves. Consequently, the viewer’s attention has been focused on the image.
In Summation
Once you master the use of form, color, and curves, you are on your way to capturing some great abstract images. On the other hand, there is a lot more to learn about abstract photography.
Definition of Abstract Photography
Abstract photography does not have a universally accepted definition. At first, this may seem odd. On the other hand, it is not easy to create a precise definition of an abstract concept. Nevertheless, for this article, it is important to create a definition so that there will be some borders around the topic. The definition makes it easier to decide what falls within the realm of abstract photography. For our purposes, abstract photography is defined as any photography that:
* Does not represent the subject in a literal way.
* Communicates primarily through form, color, and curves rather than image detail.
Why Shoot Abstract Photography
Before we start creating any images, it is important to understand why we should even consider creating abstract images. After all, there are plenty of other photographic opportunities out there.
There are two primary reasons. First, as was previously mentioned, abstract photography can create very impressive images. This is really all the justification that is needed. Then again, there is another reason. Opportunities for abstract images can be found just about anywhere. So, we can create abstract images at home and around our neighborhood. It isn’t necessary to travel to other locations to capture images (as is the case with many other types of photography such as landscape photography).
Essentials
Abstract photography has three essentials: form, color, and curves. To create impressive abstract images, it is important to think in these terms.
Form: Form refers to the shape of objects. Form functions as the structure upon which an abstract image is created. Fundamentally, form creates the heart of an image while color and curves add enrichment. Consequently, it is very important that an abstract image begin with good form. This can be accomplished by selecting objects with pleasing, interesting, or dynamic shapes.Now, it might be tempting to want a definition or list of what makes for good form. However, it must be remembered that abstract photography is an instinctual art form — people react to it emotionally not logically. Thus, it is essential that form be approached in the same manner. It is necessary to find objects with forms that create an emotional reaction. When one looks at an object and immediately reacts, “Wow, look at that”, a strong form has probably been found.
Color: Color grabs the attention of the viewer and stimulates the viewer’s perceptual system. Not only does color grab the viewer’s attention, it also serves to hold the viewer’s attention for an extended period of time. If the viewer’s eyes do wander, the color tends to bring the attention back.
Using a saturated or intense color is one approach to using color. Another approach is to use colors that contrast.
Curves: Curves can help to spice up an abstract image. That is because curves control the movement of the viewer’s eyes. There are a couple of ways that curves can be used. First, curves can add interest by helping to guide the viewer’s attention to an image’s center of interest. The result is a stronger center of interest and a better image.The second way that curves can add interest is somewhat more subtle. In this case, the curves don’t point at the center of interest. Instead, the curves course through the image in an elegant or dynamic way. Despite the fact that the curves do not point toward the center of interest, they nevertheless function to control the viewer’s eyes. With this approach, the viewer’s attention will travel back and forth along the curves. Consequently, the viewer’s attention has been focused on the image.
In Summation
Once you master the use of form, color, and curves, you are on your way to capturing some great abstract images. On the other hand, there is a lot more to learn about abstract photography.
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