Have you ever wanted to try abstract photography but are completely lost about where to begin?
What Is Abstract Photography?
Abstract photography is a genre that focuses on subjects without context.
This often leads to images that are perplexing without the photographer providing relevant details.
These elements can be arranged in traditional or unorthodox compositions.
The important thing is to think about these elements when you begin exploring abstract photography.
Here are a few tips to get you started in this genre.
In fact, camera prefs may not be a consideration at all for some creations.
But it would be helpful to discuss camera configs for beginners who need a starting point.
If you’re photographing people, your controls could be quite different from shooting an abstract landscape image.
We talk about thebasic camera controls that every photographer needs to understand.
But if you want to take complete control of the photographic process, consider using Manual Mode.
It’s always the best option when you have the time to properly photograph the subject.
Patterns are everywhere, on our walls, floors, ceilings, and buildings.
you could even find them in living things, like trees and animals.
Patterns are so abundant that sometimes they’re easy to overlook.
Take, for example, the above image of a close-up photo of a simple patch of shaggy carpet.
This is the same image but with the image resolution increased from almost 5,000 pixels to 15,000 pixels.
We then cropped it to find an interesting patch.
It’s already looking more abstract, but we can take it further with a few adjustments in Photoshop.
We could also change the color drastically to get an even more abstract result.
The image is drastically different from its original.
And it’s definitely an abstract image.
We talk about using theLinear Light blend mode for dodging and burning in Photoshop.
This naturally leads us to our next tip: photo editing software.
There are also advanced creative photo editors like Luminar AI and Luminar Neo.
We explore eachLuminar program to determine what the best version may be for you.
This may include shooting during golden hour or using artificial light sources.
Either way, avoid low-light situations whenever possible as well as indoor overhead lights.
Whatever the subject, abstract photography is best served with proper exposure.
We talk aboutthe exposure triangleand how this can greatly enhance your photography.
These are the elements worth studying before you set out to create your own abstract photography.
For one, you’ll be amazed at what can be done in the world of abstract art.
For example, an artist like Johnny Stevens has shared some of hisabstract photography of rust on his website.
Once you see some of his work, you’ll likely never look at rust the same again.
The same holds true for many other subjects.
A quick image search will reveal numerous possibilities.
Try “abstract shadows” or “abstract landscape photography” and see what pops up.
YouTube is also a great resource for learning about abstract photography.
It’s well worth checking out before you pick up your camera.
Explore Abstract Photography
Abstract photography isn’t just a bunch of squiggly linesalthough it certainly can be!
Abstract photos can be as rich and complex, as beautiful and inspirational, as any other photography genre.
Give it a try and see if you surprise yourself.
