102 / 108
Augustus 2018
100
Taking weird, but
wonderful photographs
Relevant
Photo competition
SA Graan/Grain
editorial staff
I
f you are tired of taking pictures of sunsets and landscapes,
it is perhaps time to try your hand at abstract photography.
Although abstract photography goes against many photogra
phy rules, it gives the photographer the freedom to take a pic-
ture of anything that grabs the attention and allows you to express
your artistic nature. Abstract photography is based on what the
photographer sees – capturing something in a way that it would
not usually be seen.
While many commonly observed photography rules don’t apply,
a good abstract photo always has a clear, structural design. Look
for the details, patterns, lines, shape and colours that complete a
subject and use these key features to make an appealing image.
For example, very few people look at the veins on a leaf, so take
an extreme close-up of the veins for an artistic image.
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not difficult to capture abstract
images. It’s just a matter of gaining a better understanding of
what it really is and letting your creative juices flow. Start with
everyday objects and try to capture it in a new, creative light.
By placing a sheer fabric or something like wrinkled plastic or lace
over the lens can create stunning results.
References
https://www.adorama.com/alc/abstract-photography-for-beginners-9-tips-for-
capturing-stunning-abstract-images.
https://www.colesclassroom.com/abstract-photography/.
Amanda van Blerk from Bethlehem received
the prize money of R1 500 in the June com-
petition for her photograph of a shepherd
and his flock, entitled, ‘Oog van die meester
maak die vee vet’.
Piet Lombard of Elsenburg wins R1 500 in the July competition for his
photograph, entitled, ‘Liewenheerbesie jag aarluise op koringaar’ – a
good example of this year’s theme, symbiosis.
Winning photo
For July
2
nd
3
rd
A barbed wire fence provides a safe haven for finches.
Claudi Lourens from Frankfort captured the photograph
for the second place.
This typical farm scene with the shepherds, sheep and sheep-
dog was selected as the third place winner. It was taken by
Piet Lombard of Elsenburg.
Scan this QR code or visit the website
for some surprising examples of abstract
photography:
https://www.thephotoargus.
com/40-astounding-examples-of-abstract-
photography/.