Abstract Photography Methods: Selective Focus, Light And Shadows, And Curves

July 19, 2010

This write-up presents four techniques (selective focus, light and shadows, curves, and texture) that can be used to create abstract images. These techniques work well with many different types of subject matter.

The Potential of the Selective Focus Technique

If you’re searching for an easy but powerful abstract photography technique, selective focus is the technique for you. To utilize this technique, a large aperture is used to produce a very narrow depth of field. Once the aperture has been selected, the point of interest is determined, and the lens is focused at that point. The rest will be out of focus.

There are two things that can be done to make your images even more impressive when using this technique. When the color of the sharp portion of the image is different than the rest of the image, the sharp part will stand out much more. The color contrast will enhance the difference between the center of interest and the blurred areas. The end result is that the center of interest will become stronger. The other thing to note is that curves can be utilized effectively to reinforce the center of interest by having curves lead the viewer to the center of interest of the image.

The application of both of these approaches simultaneously can create excellent results.

The Use of Light and Shadows

As photographers, we are frequently instructed to concentrate on the light. We may begin to think almost exclusively in terms of the light. However, this is an incorrect view because light and shadows are inseparable. Shadows are not just a lack of light. Instead, shadows function to make the light come to life. This is especially true with abstract images.

When utilizing this technique, the main purpose of the shadows is to enhance the forms in an image. As a result, for this technique to be successful, it is necessary to start with very interesting or dramatic forms. Then, the shadows are used in a way that makes the forms stand out.

As an example, the shadows may surround the center of interest so that the viewer’s attention is naturally drawn to that point.

Curves

When creating abstract images, the correct use of curves can add considerable impact to a photo. The more dominant the curves are in an abstract image, the larger the impact the curves will have. In some images, the curves become the most important part of the image.

Curves that display grace or a touch of the dynamic work best. Of course, the curves must all serve a common objective. Simply having a bunch of haphazard curves running in every which direction will not work.

Adding Interest with Texture

A technique that is very similar to the use of curves is the use of texture. Oftentimes, texture and curves are used at the same time. To be used successfully, the texture must be one of the most dominant characteristics of the subject matter.

When both texture and curves are employed in an image, they must work together in a well balanced manner.

Synopsis

These abstract photography techniques provide a good foundation for capturing abstract images. On the other hand, there are many more abstract photography techniques.

The next step is to read Creating Abstract Photography Images.