“Abstract photography can be defined as capturing images in which the subject isn’t the most interesting element. Albert Renger-Patzsch and Aaron Siskind photographed the ordinary to reveal their beauty. Uta Barth reversed the typical use of the camera, shooting out of focus and Andreas Gursky photographs the repetition of elements. During this unit, you will investigate appropriate examples of abstract photography and respond in your own way.”
My thoughts on this quote:
The idea that “the subject isn’t the most interesting element” challenges conventional exceptions, the subject is typically the driver of the narrative of an image. In abstract photography, the viewer’s attention is drawn to color, shape, or texture.
The quote suggests that abstract photography is about seeing and presenting the world differently, its not what you’re photographung but how you’re capturing and interpreting it.
Photographers like Renger-Patzsch and SIiskid found beauty in ordinary things, but it’s not by focusing solely on the subject but by highlighting details that are often unnoticed.
What do you think is meant by “Abstract photography can be defined as capturing images in which the subject isn’t the most interesting element”?
In abstract photography, the focus is not on the subject (or something that is not worthy of your attention) but the other aspects of the image. Its how the image is composed of what emotions or ideas, rather than a clear depiction of a subject. It wants the viewer to engage with the image on a more deeper level rather than simply identify the image and say “wow that’s a cool photo.” Abstract art is really interesting as it’s looking into the minds of an artists to see how they see the world to portray and show the world.
My definition of abstract photography:
Abstract Photography is a style of photography that highlights shapes, colors, and textures rather than recognizable and traditional objects. It focuses on creating visually interesting images that is on the borderline between reality and fantasy like look.
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