How to shoot abstract photos

Abstract photography is a unique genre that challenges both the photographer and the viewer to see the world in a new light. Unlike traditional photography, which captures scenes as they appear, abstract photography uses colors, shapes, and textures to create compositions that evoke emotion, provoke thought, and spark curiosity. If you’ve ever wondered how to create beautiful abstract photos, this guide will walk you through the essential tips and techniques to help you master the art of abstract photography.

1. Understanding the Essence of Abstract Photography

Before we dive into the practical tips, it’s important to understand what abstract photography is. In its simplest form, abstract photography is about capturing images that don’t directly represent the real world. Instead, it focuses on the elements like shapes, patterns, and colors, leaving the viewer to interpret the meaning.

The beauty of abstract photography lies in its ambiguity. There is no right or wrong interpretation, which is what makes it so compelling. You can create abstract art by photographing any subject, from everyday objects to natural landscapes.

2. Find Interesting Shapes and Forms

One of the best ways to begin shooting abstract photos is to find interesting shapes and forms. Look around you for objects or scenes that have unusual angles, curves, or lines. You don’t have to search for anything overly dramatic – sometimes, the most abstract compositions come from the simplest objects.

• Examples:

  • The intricate patterns of tree branches against the sky

  • The spirals and curves of staircases

  • The geometric shapes of architecture or urban elements

These shapes can create stunning focal points in your photographs, and when captured creatively, they can evoke a sense of rhythm and harmony. When you find an interesting shape, try isolating it from its surroundings to create a more abstract composition.

3. Play with Light and Shadows

Light and shadow are two of the most important elements in abstract photography. The way light interacts with your subject can transform a mundane object into something extraordinary. Play with light sources, whether it’s natural sunlight, street lamps, or studio lighting. The contrast between light and shadow will add depth and texture to your images, making them more intriguing.

• Tips:

  • Experiment with harsh light to create sharp shadows that define shapes.

  • Use soft, diffused light to create smooth transitions between light and shadow.

  • Try shooting during the golden hour (just before sunset or after sunrise) for soft, warm light that adds an artistic touch.

4. Focus on Color and Contrast

Color plays a pivotal role in abstract photography. A burst of vibrant colors or a subtle gradient can evoke powerful emotions. When you’re shooting abstract photos, consider how color interacts with the overall composition. Look for color contrasts that add visual interest.

• Tip: Use a monochromatic color palette for a minimalist, calming effect, or experiment with complementary colors for a more dynamic look.

In some cases, you may want to shoot in black and white to emphasize the textures and shapes without the distraction of color. This allows the viewer to focus on the lines, patterns, and contrast in the image.

5. Get Close and Experiment with Focus

In abstract photography, getting close to your subject is a game-changer. By getting up close, you can focus on the minute details of textures, patterns, and surfaces that are not usually visible from a distance. This allows you to create a more immersive, detailed shot that feels abstract.

• Tip: Use a macro lens or the macro setting on your camera to capture fine textures like the surface of leaves, the grain of wood, or even the details of water droplets.

Also, experiment with selective focus. Try focusing on only one part of your subject, while the rest is blurred. This creates a sense of mystery and adds to the abstract nature of the photograph.

6. Movement and Motion Blur

Another great technique for abstract photography is incorporating motion. By introducing movement into your composition, you can create beautiful, fluid images that evoke a sense of dynamism and energy. You can achieve this by either physically moving your camera while shooting or by capturing subjects in motion.

• Tips for Motion Blur:

  • Slow down your shutter speed to create long exposure effects. This works well when shooting moving water, traffic, or clouds.

  • Experiment with panning your camera in the direction of moving objects to create a sense of motion and blur the background while keeping the subject sharp.

7. Abstract Photography Techniques in Post-Processing

Post-processing is a powerful tool that can help elevate your abstract photography. After you capture your images, use editing software to adjust the colors, contrast, and sharpness to enhance the abstract qualities of your photos.

• Tips:

  • Play with saturation and contrast to make colors pop.

  • Adjust the exposure to create more dramatic highlights and shadows.

  • Use filters or digital brushes to enhance textures and patterns.

When editing your abstract photos, remember to maintain the essence of abstraction. Avoid over-processing, which could take away from the mysterious and open-ended nature of abstract art.

8. How to Display Your Abstract Photography

Once you’ve perfected your abstract photos, you’ll want to display them in a way that highlights their artistic qualities. One of the best ways to showcase your abstract photography is by turning it into canvas prints online. Canvas prints not only preserve your images but also add an element of texture and depth to your artwork.

Whether you're displaying abstract photos in your home, office, or a gallery, printing your work on canvas can transform it into a powerful focal point. The texture of the canvas complements the abstract style of your images, making them more immersive and engaging. Canvas prints online are an excellent option for transforming your abstract photography into professional artwork that lasts a lifetime.

Conclusion

Abstract photography is an exciting and creative genre that allows photographers to explore new ways of seeing the world. By experimenting with shapes, light, color, and motion, you can create captivating images that challenge the viewer's perception and evoke emotion. Remember to focus on the details, play with different techniques, and let your imagination guide you.

Once you’ve captured those stunning abstract shots, turn them into beautiful canvas prints to showcase your unique perspective. To get started with printing your own images, check out our canvas prints online service and bring your abstract art to life.