Being a primary tenet of this group I think others may find this fstoppers article of interest if not read already.
I think we have all struggled in the past facing our own interpretation of what classifies as minimalist photography so this article may be of value. The author provides additional value in providing an additional link that may help members understand why flipping an image can make a difference.
The one thing I have struggled myself with my minimalist shots (my own and others) is the subject. By minimizing the elements that make up the image it becomes increasingly important to ensure interest elsewhere, whether that be though a strong subject or the withing supporting elements through light/form/texture etc.
I think it always important to keep in mind that minimalism cannot be the subject of an image in itself, but used as a supporting compositional component to other elements in the frame.
Does Minimalism Transform Our Photography for the Better or the Worse?
https://fstoppers.com/opinion/does-minimalism-transform-our-photography-...
Fantastic Photography Relies More on Left and Right Than You May Realize
https://fstoppers.com/education/fantastic-photography-relies-more-left-a...
I hope others find these articles of interest. I'll leave with one of my own favorite minimal images - taken in the midst of a raging snowstorm which provided a perfect/minimal background.
Comments and discussions encouraged - what is your own feelings on minimal work? Do you love it, hate it? Do you have any inspirations you would be willing to share?
Excelent discussion Alan.
Years ago when I was studying photography one of my profs shared with me something that has helped my work ever since.
In the middle of learning about the Italian masters, chemistry and how it can impact my work (yes back in the film days), and concepts like Scheimpflug principle, this professor gave me an assignment.
It was very simple.
"Go and make an image of one thing. Nothing else."
That was my introduction into minimalism and it has helped me ever since.
The principal of less is more applies to all forms of photography more than you think. Landscape, portraiture, street, photojournalism, you name it.
By exploring minimalistic photography you will discover so much about the feeling of an image and carry that knowledge to all other aspects of your photography.
Along with these two articles Alan shared with us, I highly recommend this video by Alex. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIGCix0Z-Tw&t=4s
His channel "The Photographic Eye" is a great place to explore some of the principals of what photography can be. No gear reviews, fStops, or Bokeh babble just and inspiring and refreshing look into what the art form can be.
I think minimalism sits, as a subset, within 'simplicity'.
Fog; depth of field; negative space; minimalism.
I think we could bring in compositions and contrasting colours, that cause the viewer to focus on a particular part of the frame.
I've got a bunch of ephemeral thoughts running around my head, which I'm trying to get a handle on.
Anyway, good discussion and images, both of you.
And I'm also a fan of The Photographic Eye.
Ephemeral thoughts are... the juice. I hope you can share the visuals when you are ready.
Difficult subject matter. Maybe I'll work it out one day.
Perhaps circling back to minimalism might be a good theme for the New Year. The (excellent) video might inspire and push members outside of their comfort zone.
All in fun and to keep folks energized over the winter of course.