A Project that looks into experimental Photography
§  This project is a way of developing the ability to understand the formal qualities of
photography and to promote their inventiveness and creativity. Some people argue that all works of art are abstractions because they are representations of life rather than real life. Most people would agree that abstraction is a kind of sliding scale with naturalism on the one end and total non-representation at the other.
Paul Strand Research § The image is by Paul Strand. It is entitled 'Abstraction, Twin Lakes, Connecticut' and
was made in 1916. You can read more about the image here. The photographer created an abstract image deliberately, drawing attention to the Formal Elements. I have used the following handout to help students get to grips with the formal elements in this image
§ Focus:
Light: Line & Shape: Repetition: Space: Texture: Value/Tone:
§ What do we mean when we describe a photograph as abstract? § Is it possible to make an interesting photograph of anything? If so, how might you go
about doing this?
§ What do you think photographer William Eggleston meant when he said he was "at
war with the obvious?”
§ Create a Popplet which will start your research off for the project. § www.popplet.com
§ Homework
How do I take this further? Experiment with your own lights Use Photoshop to create a multiple image or an overlay of colour. Change to Black and white and increase contrast Overlay this image on a portrait.
How do I take this further? Try creating a diptych or a triptych of your images. Consider changing to B&W or playing around with the hue.
How do I take this further? Turn the flash on. Overlay this with over images Duplicate the image.
How do I take this further? Experiment with aperture further Use a close up filter to create further blur.
How do I take this further? Create your own pinhole camera Use your negative in the darkroom
How do I take this further? Use HDR toning Change to B&W Crop the image.
How do I take this further? Up the contrast in PS Use object such as sports equipment to show the blur. Change to B&W