I get a lot of comments that people would like to try abstracts but they don't "see" them when they are out with their cameras. In the vein of promoting abstract photography, here is an example of finding an abstract.
Start with something that you think might work like the first photo of chipping paint. This is where people usually stop because, while this is interesting, it doesn't have composition so it just doesn't feel right.
Fiddle with it so it has nice color, etc. Then, crop it in half. (photo 2) Check it out. If it feels good - great! it probably won't yet. Keep going.
Then set up another crop in half and start testing different areas of the image until you find something that is pleasing. (photos 3, 4, 5, 6)
This is the easiest way for an abstract beginner to find a cool shot.
Hope to see some new abstracts here!
:)
I should have mentioned that this is an activity to train your eye to find abstracts. You don't want to get into a cropping habit! Once you get the hang of this you will 'see' these opportunities readily.
Thanks for that helpful tip Ruth.
I think it is a lesson to us all that images may not simply appear in front of of eye, we have to be prepared to search for and recognize opportunities.
So true! And I think it is even harder with abstracts. But the reward can be sweet!