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Tomas Lissåker's picture

What is minimalism?

So what is minimalism really? This is the remains of a dolmen style tomb taken on a foggy morning, would the group call this minimalism since it's pretty much one simple subject?

Always interesting to hear other thoughts.

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8 Comments

Hi Tomas - When we first began this group, this was the definition of minimalism:

Minimalism is a style which presents the subject with few other components in the composition. Detail is kept to only that which is essential to express the desired effect and create meaning. There is an emphasis on elements such as color, shape, line and texture of the subject to complete the image rather than scene or setting. However, successful images need not be ‘empty’ but rather have the barest detail needed to convey the desired outcome.

Based on this, I would say that this is a superb example of minimalism! I love the composition, color and texture. This only issue here is that there is a significant halo around the stone structure. I see the radial highlight in the sky and grass around the stone.

I do understand wanting to highlight the stone but I would suggest playing around a little. Maybe using a brush tool to highlight the rocks rather than a radial? Just a thought.

PS - don't forget to read the pinned post at the top of the page about critiquing! We'd love your input.

:)

Hey the Tomas. Nice minimalist shot.

Yes this would easily be considered minimalism. I really love the contrasting textures here between the heavy stone and the softer grasses, and I like the muted colors.

I would have liked to seen a much softer radial vignette on this image. The subject is so nicely minimal that just a subtle touch will go a long way here. Honestly, I personally think you could do without it, but that is just personal preference, and just means I like the shot you took.

Again, nice capture, keep them coming!

Love it, Tomas! Joe has said what I would've. And agree with the others - more even, perhaps totally flat, tone in the sky would help to emphasise the tomb. And I'm partial to subtle vignettes in general.

Hi Tomas,
To me, this is not minimalism. Many people will be able to identify a megalith. To compensate, I would suggest to put the dolmen right in the middle of the photography. That would enhance a geometric effect, and a sens of mystery.
It's just a suggestion!

Hey Tomas .. to me this is minimalism. The eye is drawn straight away to the structure and that is crucial here because we are looking at history.

Thanks a lot for the feedback, I can believe I hadn't seen that the highlight was so obvious, definitely something I'm taking with me for future edits! :D

That's why posting here is so valuable - a little painful sometimes! - but always helpful!

looking forward to more from you AND I really hope you give feedback to others as you see now how helpful it is to get.

:)