Producing eye-catching photos is easier when you know some photographic techniques. This is especially true for abstract photography. As a result, this article covers four techniques that work very well for creating abstract images. The techniques that will be covered are selective focus, light and shadows, curves, and texture. When the techniques have been learned, they can be applied to various photographic opportunities. The key is to practice these techniques on all sorts of objects. The more you practice, the better you will become.
Using Selective Focus to Direct the Viewer’s Attention
Selective focus is one of the most popular techniques used when creating abstract images. When used well, the selective focus technique is very powerful and can lead to images that can really get a viewer’s interest. To create a limited area of sharpness, a large aperture is needed. The camera is then focused on the center of interest of the image.
When utilizing selective focus, there are a couple of ways that the technique can be made more effective. The first thing is to make certain that color of the area that’s in focus is different than the rest of the photo. The color contrast will enhance the difference between the center of interest and the blurred areas. The result is that the center of interest becomes stronger. Second, curves may be used to help direct the viewer’s attention to the center of interest.
The application of these two approaches simultaneously can produce outstanding results.
The Interplay of Light and Shadows
Using the interplay of light and shadows can create drama in an image. Now, many photographers tend to think only in terms of light. However, this is an incorrect view because light and shadows are inseparable. Shadows are not just a lack of light. The shadows intermingle with the light to create dramatic photo possibilities. The interplay of light and shadows plays an especially important role in many abstract images.
So, what is the shadows’ purpose in this technique? The primary role of the shadows is to help to define the forms. In other words, the shadows’ role is to help the forms to be noticed. As a result, it is important that forms that seize ones’ attention be used in abstract images. The shadows then function to make the more prominent.
As an example, the shadows may surround the center of interest so that the viewer’s attention is naturally drawn to that point.
The Use of Curves
When creating abstract images, the correct use of curves can add substantial impact to a photo. For this technique to be effective, the curves should be the dominant characteristic of the subject matter.
The curves must be either graceful or dynamic. Of course, the curves must all serve a common objective. Simply having numerous haphazard curves running in every which direction won’t work.
Texture
Texture can add impact to abstract images in a way not much different than curves. In many cases, texture and curves are used at the same time. The more the texture stands out in an image, the more it can be used to effectively add impact to the image.
Furthermore, the texture must work in harmony with any curves that are present.
Synopsis
These abstract photography techniques give you a good foundation for capturing abstract images. Of course, there is much more that can be learned about abstract photography.