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.

 

Before starting this unit, I thought photography was mainly about capturing clear subjects like people or places. But I learned that abstract photography focuses more on shapes, colors, and textures — not just the subject itself. The quote “the subject isn’t the most interesting element” means that even ordinary things can become visually striking depending on how you shoot them. I’m excited to explore this new perspective through the lens.