Tim Butler-Jones compares Abstract Photography to Jeremy Clarkson and writes the best photo blog... in the world!
Are you ready to take your photography game to the next level? Are you tired of taking the same old boring landscapes and portraits? Well, have I got the solution for you, my friend: abstract photography!
Think of abstract photography as the Jeremy Clarkson of the photography world: it's bold, it's daring, and it's not afraid to break the rules. It's all about taking ordinary subjects and giving them a unique twist to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you're a fan of the greats like Horst or Aaron Siskind, or you prefer contemporary abstract photographers such as Wolfgang Tillman, the principles for getting started remain the same.
So, how do you get started with abstract photography? First things first, you'll need a camera. It doesn't have to be the latest and greatest, but it should have manual settings so you can control things like shutter speed and aperture. Next, you'll need to start looking at the world around you with a different perspective. Look for patterns, shapes, and textures that you might not have noticed before.
Now, let's talk about composition. When it comes to abstract photography, composition is everything. You want to create a sense of balance and harmony in your shots, but you also want to add a touch of chaos. Don't be afraid to play around with different angles and perspectives. Take a few steps to the left or the right, move closer or farther away, and see what happens.
Once you've got your composition down, it's time to start experimenting with different techniques. One of my favourites is long exposure. This technique involves keeping the shutter open for a longer period of time, which can create some incredible blur and movement in your shots. Another technique to try is intentional camera movement. This is where you physically move your camera while the shutter is open to create a sense of movement and energy in your shots.
Now, you might be thinking "What about the technical stuff? ISO, shutter speed, and aperture, and all that jazz?" Don't worry, my friend. Abstract photography is all about experimenting and finding what works for you. So, don't be afraid to play around with different settings and see what happens.
And finally, don't be afraid to make mistakes. Abstract photography is all about pushing boundaries and trying new things. So, don't be afraid to take risks and see what happens. Who knows, you might just create something truly amazing.
In conclusion, abstract photography is all about taking ordinary subjects and giving them a unique twist to create something truly extraordinary. It's a bold, daring style of photography that's not afraid to break the rules. So, grab your camera, start looking at the world around you with a different perspective, and see what amazing things you can create. Happy shooting!