When we think of photography, we often only think of it as a means of capturing memories or events. But fine art photography is a much deeper, richer form of art, and to me, it's all about seeing the world differently. The beauty of fine art photography is that it can take everyday things and transform them into something extraordinary.
In this post, I’ll go deeper into how to develop an artistic eye, the importance of seeing beauty in everyday things, and how fine art photography can help you achieve that.
Be Present and Take in Your Surroundings
In our fast-paced world, we are always caught up in our careers, and our chores at home, and it is so easy to get caught up in all that and miss the beauty that surrounds us.
However, if we learn to practice mindfulness and intentionally take in our surroundings, we can start to see things we wouldn't normally see. When out on a walk, take in the colors of the sky, the pattern of the rocks, or the texture of the trees. These little details in your surroundings can turn into the subject of your next photo.
Or even while working, when you take a break, take your mind off things by actively looking at what surrounds you. You might be surprised.
For example, I was waiting for something to load on my computer when I took this photo. I liked the play of the lines and the grey tones, especially when blurry like this.
Experiment With Different Perspectives
Taking a picture from a different angle can completely transform what is captured in the frame. Try getting low to the ground and shooting upwards toward your subject or positioning yourself higher to capture a different perspective. Look for unique angles and notice how the light hits your subject. This can make a significant impact on the final product and can help to develop a more artistic eye.
Look for Patterns, Textures, Shapes, and Colors
As humans, we're naturally drawn to patterns, textures, shapes, and colors.
Fine art photography is all about capturing these aspects of the world in a creative manner. Try incorporating these elements into your imagery by highlighting the contrast between colors or exploring the shapes and patterns in your surroundings. Experiment with how these elements interact with one another in the frame to create a one-of-a-kind image.
I don't remember where I took this one, but I think we were driving back from our Italian home.
Find Beauty in the Mundane
One of the most beautiful things about fine art photography is the ability to take everyday objects or scenes and make them extraordinary. Whether it's a rusted bicycle on a street corner or a cobweb on a window, there is beauty in the mundane. Train yourself to seek out these ordinary views and find ways to make them extraordinary through your photography.
Pay Attention to Detail
Beyond seeing the world uniquely, it’s noteworthy to pay attention to the details. Notice how the natural light is falling, the shadows that are cast, and the way colors interact with one another. These little details can add depth and dimension to your work, making it stand out even more.
Final Thoughts on Mastering Fine Art Photography
The art of seeing is to develop an artistic eye to capture the beauty of everyday things. Fine art photography helps us to see the world from a different perspective, and in the process, we uncover the beauty of the ordinary that surrounds us.
By paying attention to details and seeking out the unique within the day-to-day, we can transform the mundane into something extraordinary. With the proper mindset and a keen eye for detail, we can all become artists. So next time you need a break, pick up that camera, or your sketchbook, and venture out into the world - you may be surprised by what you find when you open your eyes consciously.
Looking at the world like this, with mindfulness not only enhances our artistic abilities but also has the nice side effect of being beneficial for our mental health. Mindfulness encourages us to be present in the moment, which can reduce stress and anxiety as we shift focus away from our worries and onto the beauty in the environment around us.
This practice of intentional observation can cultivate a sense of peace and satisfaction, as we learn to appreciate the full richness of our everyday experiences. And so, by mindfully observing the world as potential art, we also engage in a form of meditation, fostering a tranquil mind and a joyful spirit.
So, take a moment to look a little longer, feel a little deeper, and capture the art that frames every moment of your day.