I recently did a Google keyword search for the most requested search word for “art” and “abstract art” came in at a whopping 65,000 searches per month. I began to think I could transform my photos into abstract art. I experimented with some techniques before I found one that I like. My first attempt was to move the camera in a circular pattern while taking a photograph at a slow shutter speed (photo on left). The results were interesting, but nothing that I would hang on my wall. Then I remembered reading an article about using slow shutter speeds to show motion. A slow shutter speed creates a surreal image, one that can not be seen with the eye. What came to my mind were “leaves blowing in the wind”, “a Ferris wheel in action at an amusement park” “waves crashing in on a shoreline” or “fish swimming in a pond”.
A few weeks later, I was visiting my son in San Diego and stayed at a hotel that had a Koni Fish Pond with brightly colored fish swimming about. This was perfect. I set up my tripod and set the shutter speed to 1/20 second. The result was magical! I love the original (the first one pictured below) but I also like the one I Photoshopped by adjusting the hue slider.
To create an abstract image, try photographing nature on a windy day. You will need a tripod and a neutral density filter so you can use a slow shutter speed. Good luck and please comment on this post if you enjoyed it!
For more information on DSLR photography check out the online course.
To view my portrait photography site visit Lightscapes Portrait Studio.
To view my fine art photography site visit Message in a Petal.
