Simplicity

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2017 | photography issue /01

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Minimalist approach to modern photography

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modern minimal architectu photography

ure by

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marcin potoczny

Minimalism is a very subjective concept in the art world. The Webster dictionary defines it as follows: A style or technique that is characterized by extreme spareness and simplicity. Some love it, others hate it, but no one seems to be indifferent. Many artists thrive in the openness of the concept, others have a problem with the lack of definition and direction. Many of us are drawn to ‘less is more’ with simple lines, geometric patterns, strong shadows, contrast-

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ing colors, lone subjects, etc.

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strong and bold composition with distinctive contrast

F

For others, deciding what to

make those decisions in camera

leave out of the frame to make a

instead of cropping unwanted

stronger image is a difficult exer-

distractions in post processing.

cise. Here are a few tips and ex-

A clever use of depth of field will

amples to get you started in your

also isolate your subject from the

quest for minimalist imagery.

background by shooting with an

“Keep it simple” doesn’t mean

aperture as wide (smallest number) as your lens will allow.

“keep it boring”. Contrary to

what you may think, a minimal-

A bright color or contrasting

ist approach requires a lot of

colors make great minimalist

creativity. The use of negative

subjects. The same applies to

space is an integral part of

textures. The viewer should be

minimalist photography. A well

able to almost feel the texture.

placed subject doesn’t have to

Sometimes it’s all about finding

be large to have a big impact.

a creative angle to make the

Deciding what to leave out of

photograph. Don’t be afraid the

the frame and create a stronger

experiment. Shoot straight on,

image can be challenging and

shoot high or low, work your

often requires a lot of practice

frame until you get the shot that

until it becomes the way you see.

will speak to you.

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I recommend training yourself to

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complex yet sophisticated structure

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striking angles with simple background

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empty space gives time to take a breath

Push your minimalist photography to the next level by telling a story. Minimalist street photography showcases an interesting urban landscape with a human element. The human element, however small, becomes the focal point of the image. Yet, it’s the interesting background that draws the photographer to make the shot. Symmetry, lines, curves, shadows all play a vital part in making the photograph. Sometimes the story and the environment come together spontane-

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it and respond quickly.

text by Valerie Jardin

ously and it’s the photographer’s job to see

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using perspective for best composition

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black and white contrast

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S p c 2017 | photography issue /01