Abstract Photography
What is Abstract Photography? In essence, abstract photography has no description, as there is no standard or universally accepted definition. However, many photographers believe that abstract photography is a form of photography that has no literal meaning, and focuses on color, lines and form rather than the whole subject. Some photographers believe that abstract photography doesn’t have a clear subject, while others believe that abstract photos transform the subject into a completely unlike object.
What is Abstract Photography? Abstract photography doesn’t follow the normal rules and principles of design; instead, we are given a glimpse of the photographer’s own thoughts and emotions. Minimalism, which isolates a certain subject, is a commonly used tool in abstract photography. Abstract photography doesn’t necessarily have to mean something, but rather sets the mood or atmosphere to the viewer.
History of Abstract Art/Photography Abstract art began to see popularity during the beginning of the 20th century. Abstract art includes the movements of Cubism, Neoplasticism, and Abstract Expressionism. Many prominent abstract artists include Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque.
Picasso, Pablo. Skull and Pitcher. (1945) Braque, Georges. Houses at L’Estaque. (1908)
History of Abstract Art/Photography Abstract photography has appeared in history as early as 1916, after Alvin Langdon Coburn coined the term in his essay ‘The Future of Pictorial Photography.’ Coburn is commonly referred to as the father of Abstract Photography, being one of the first photographers to emphasize it.
Coburn, Alvin. The Door in the Wall. György Kepes, Untitled. (1940)
Elements of Abstract Photography There are four essential elements in abstract photography: Form Lines Color Texture
Elements of Abstract Photography Form: form refers to any three dimensional shape. It can either be geometric/man-made or natural/organic. Form plays a part in abstract photography because photographers want to find objects or forms that have an emotional impact on the viewer.
Elements of Abstract Photography Color: color is used in photography to create contrast, interest the viewer, or create an emotional reaction. In abstract photography, it has the same purpose: it’s used to attract the viewer’s attention and stimulate his/her perceptual system.
Elements of Abstract Photography Lines: lines, just like form, can attract the viewer to a certain point to interest in the photo. When used well, they can turn a good image into a great image.
Elements of Abstract Photography Texture: texture and repeating patterns are common in abstract photography. It can provide either rhythm or chaos in a photo, depending on the photographer.
Common Abstract Photography Subjects Common abstract photography subjects include: Nature Architecture Household items
Common Abstract Photography Subjects Nature: nature is a common abstract photography subject because there are no limits when it comes to nature. With thousands of plants, animals, or even skies to take pictures of, abstract artists can really experiment with different shapes and colors.
Common Abstract Photography Subjects Architecture: skyscrapers and other structural shapes are great subjects because they can provide very unique shapes and patterns(i.e.: window panes on a skyscraper). Buildings also have a distinct appeal
Common Abstract Photography Subjects Household items: a part of abstract photography is taking something normal, and transforming it into something completely different. This is why some abstract photographers like to take photos of normal household items, as the viewer can easily identify them; this allows the photographer to provide a unique yet familiar experience.
Abstract Photography Today Even today, abstract photography is still a very popular form of photography. Famous photographers like Tony Sweet and Wolfgang Tillmans still focus heavily on abstract photography. A photograph in Cuba, taken by Tony Sweet
Abstract Photography Today Tony Sweet is an American photographer, most notably known for his abstract style of nature photographs. He is also a jazz musician, author, and workshop instructor. He was rewarded with many awards for his work, including being named one of Nikon’s Legend Behind the Lens.
Other Notable Abstract Photographers Ciro Totku http://www.totku.com/ Alan Babbitt http://www.abproductions.com/ Wolfgang Tillmans http://tillmans.co.uk/