Abstract Photography: Exploring the Art of Perception

Our Autumn Print Competition has an abstract theme so I thought now would be a good time to talk about what I think abstract photography is and, hopefully, provide some inspiration for what can be a challenging area.

An abstract image created by applying the Adamski Effect to a photo of a family on a beach

What is Abstract Photography?

Abstract photography is a way of looking at the world differently, focusing on ideas, patterns, colours, and textures rather than obviously identifiable things. It can offer interesting ways of experimenting with creativity.

Waves and reflections in a river

Waves and reflections in a river

Abstract photography is all about breaking away from conventional images. It challenges viewers to interpret images based on elements like contrast, geometry, or motion instead of familiar subjects. For example, a photo of ripples in water or close-ups of peeling paint can evoke strong emotions or tell a story beyond the surface.

Some Ideas for Getting Started

Abstract photography doesn’t need any special equipment just your camera and some imagination. Here are some suggestions for getting started:

• Macro Photography: Get up close to everyday objects like fruit skin, fabric weaves, or glass reflections.

  

  Hydrangea petals with texture and blur applied

• Shallow depth of field to isolate an object or part of an object to create mystery.

Macro and shallow depth of field view of an old-style camera shutter release

• Movement and Blur. Experiment with slow shutter speeds to capture motion blur from city lights or dancers or intentional camera movement (ICM). Blur can also be added in post processing.

In the Forrest: two ICM images combined. One with motion top to bottom and one with motion left to right, blended using Dark mode.

• Textures and Patterns: Focus on unique surfaces like rusted metal, cracked earth, or tiled walls.

  

  Walls, Angles, and Shadows

• Combine extracted components from multiple photos to create something unique. 

Ganges Dreams: combination of two textures and a photo of a boat on a river

Colours and Light

Colours can transform abstract compositions into emotional artworks. Use strong contrasts or harmonious palettes. Play with lighting—silhouettes, shadows, and backlit subjects often create intriguing abstract results.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• The vibrant swirl of oil on water.

• Reflections in a puddle.

Reflection of the Campanile Tower in St Marks Square, Venice

• Sunlight filtered through coloured glass

• A close-up of a soap bubble's rainbow hues.

• A long exposure of ripples in a stream.

  

  Ripples in a River

• A familiar object from an unusual viewpoint.

  

  Golden Gate Bridge

  ICM

  Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) is the creation of an image in camera by deliberately moving the camera during the exposure. To do this you will need to use a relatively long exposure time. This can be anything from around a 20th of a second to several seconds depending on the subject and the effect to want to create. The camera can be moved up and down, side to side, in a circle. Any way you want to do it! The results can vary enormously, and the trick is to take many photos and experiment with different exposure times and movements. When you post process ICM images there is also plenty of room for experimentation. They aren’t realistic images after all…

The Beach – created with left to right camera movement

A Rainy Day – created with top to bottom camera movement

Koi Carp – created with a circular camera movement

Post-Processing

Editing can really elevate abstract shots. There is no need to aim for realism. Tools like cropping, colour adjustment, or filter application can help highlight your subject's essence. Don't shy away from adding a surreal touch. Consider increasing or reducing saturation and contrast or changing colours entirely. You could blur a “straight” photo or crop one in such a way as to make it abstract, overlay textures, use creative presets to modify images in a surreal way, or add unusual borders.

For example:

• Apply the Adamski Effect to an existing photo. The Adamski Effect is a technique that combines blurred and clear components in a single image (see the image at the top of this post). It is created entirely in post processing with a suitable starting image. A quick Web search will provide you with many tutorials on how to create this effect.

• Change colours or saturation to create a dreamy mood or emotion.

Cool Cat – creative processing to create a mood

• Use creative black and white processing and or textures  to create a different mood or emotion.

Winter Sun

Inspiration Everywhere

Abstract photography doesn't require exotic locations; inspiration is all around. Look around your house or take a walk and notice lines, textures, colours, and shapes hidden in mundane objects. Look for reflections in puddles, shadows on walls, or patterns in leaves.

Here are some more ideas to get you started:

• Reflections of a sunset or other bright colours in a window or a building.

Setting sun reflected in a slide in my local park

• A close up of an everyday object or building.

Old Wall

• The repetitive pattern of a staircase.

Hanbury Hall Staircase

Vatican Museum Stairs

• A blurred crowd shot capturing motion and energy. Blurring can be created using ICM or a long shutter speed.

  

  The Pink Umbrella

  

  Grand Central Station, New York

  

  Catching the Train

  Final Thoughts

  Abstract photography offers endless opportunities to experiment and expand your creative vision. The ideas and images in this post are just mine. Don’t let them limit you. There is no right or wrong, so grab your camera, start exploring, and let your imagination guide you!

  
  

  If you want to learn more about the ideas and techniques used for the photos in this post, just ask in club or our social media. I’m looking forward to seeing your entries in the Autumn Print Competition.