Finding the extraordinary in simple scenes is a skill every photographer should develop. A minimalist approach not only creates striking images but also pushes you to think creatively about composition, light, and negative space.
Coming to you from Gary Gough, this reflective video explores the process of photographing a single subject in challenging conditions. Gough finds himself on the east coast of England at Mablethorpe, facing a flat, characterless sky and freezing temperatures. Instead of packing up, he embraces the conditions to capture the Tide and Time Bell, a solitary object surrounded by the sea. His goal is to create fine art through a minimalist approach, focusing on the interaction of the waves, sky, and bell.
Gough shares insights into how to handle such scenes. He discusses camera positioning to avoid placing the subject directly on the horizon, which can create an awkward balance. Instead, he lowers the tripod to separate the bell from the horizon, allowing it to stand out. He also plays with negative space, emphasizing the power of simplicity. By leaving most of the frame empty, the bell becomes more compelling, encouraging the viewer to linger on the image.
Experimentation is key to Gough's approach. He zooms in to capture details of the bell while maintaining its context within the surrounding sea. Later, he switches to a wider lens to emphasize vast emptiness, shrinking the bell into a small but significant element. This contrast between detailed close-ups and expansive wide shots shows the versatility of minimalist photography and the importance of trying different perspectives.
Gough’s use of long exposure adds another layer to his work. By using a 10-stop filter, he smooths the waves into soft, ethereal textures, creating a serene atmosphere around the bell. This technique highlights the movement of water while simplifying the overall composition. He also touches on the importance of timing, observing the flow of the waves to capture them at just the right moment. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Gough.
And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out our latest tutorial, "Photographing the World: Japan II - Discovering Hidden Gems with Elia Locardi!”
