For the Love of Nature Photography

In my wonderful realm of film photography, abstract images have the power to captivate, intrigue, and inspire. I have always had a love of nature - some of my fondest memories as my boys were growing up were spent outdoors. Abstract nature photography, in particular, offers a unique perspective on the natural world, transforming familiar landscapes into mesmerizing works of art, and they're in so many ways nostalgic and warm for us. In this blog post, I want to delve into the stunning and soft beauty of abstract nature photography, exploring techniques, artists, and the profound beauty of the natural world through an abstract lens. I'll also be linking some of my favourite pieces that encapsulate just that!

The Artistry of Up close and Abstract Nature Photography

Abstract art has long been celebrated for its ability to evoke emotions and challenge perceptions. We can see things that we maybe otherwise wouldn't notice with our bare eyes. Abstract nature photography builds upon this vision, offering viewers a fresh perspective on the beauty of the natural world and in a way to focus on something that might otherwise be overlooked. Unlike traditional landscape photography, which often aims to capture explicit images of a landscape, abstract nature photography focuses on fragments of natural scenes, a detail, a glimpse, a moment between nature and something else, inviting viewers to explore the subject matter in a new and unconventional way.

One of my absolute favourite photographs is the Hydrangea + Bee. Captured with my nifty fifty (what photographers call it) I hand hold, without a tripod, and captured a series of stills. The way that little bee is absorbed into the hydrangea captivated me so much that I wanted the photograph to show that richness and abundance.

Techniques and Tools of the Trade, and Why I LOVE My Job.

One of the key techniques employed by abstract photographers is intentional camera movement. By deliberately moving the camera during exposure, photographers can create stunning abstract photos with motion blur and a sense of dynamism. Long exposures and slow shutter speeds are also commonly used to capture the fluidity of natural elements such as ocean waves or the gentle sway of a palm tree in the wind.

Telephoto lenses and wide-angle lenses offer photographers the flexibility to capture both intimate scenes and grand landscapes with unique perspectives. Additionally, creative use of focal length and shallow depth of field can draw attention to specific compositional elements, while soft focus and special effects add depth and dimension to the final image.

One of my favourite techniques is also a double exposure technique, which for Minnesota Spruce, made for a beautiful collage of tree lined horizons and the reflections of tree against water. You can find that art print here. I used my Pentax as a double exposure. I captured the first image (did not advance the film) then turned my camera upside down tried lining it up and captured the second image

The Creative Process

Abstract nature photography is as much about the creative process as it is about the final result. When we take photographs of nature, we must approach our subjects with an open mind, seeking out small details and negative spaces that might go unnoticed by the naked eye. We also need to be flexible with movement and change, as no two photographs are the same when you're outdoors. By experimenting with different angles, lighting conditions, and compositional techniques, we can transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary works of art.

Celebrating the Beauty of Nature

At its core, abstract nature photography celebrates the inherent beauty of the natural world. From the ruggedness and organic shapes and geometry to the serene beauty of a mystical sand dune, each image offers a fresh perspective on the wonders of nature. Through the creative use of color, light, and form, we capture the essence of the natural world in all its glory.

The Role of Technology

Advancements in photographic equipment have opened up new possibilities for abstract nature photographers. But I'm a classic girl and take all my photos on film. Unlike digital photography where images are stored as electronic files, film photography produces physical negatives or slides. There's something uniquely satisfying about holding a tangible representation of my work that I just love. Film photography also evokes a sense of nostalgia for the days when it was the primary medium for capturing images. From high-quality digital cameras to specialty lenses and filters, photographers have access to a wide range of tools to enhance their creative vision. Online galleries and print shops make it easier than ever for photographers to share their work with the world, offering everything from acrylic prints to canvas prints with a certificate of authenticity.

A bit of a love letter to nature photography, I wanted to share with you my love of this type of photography. It offers a fresh perspective on the natural world, inviting viewers to see the beauty of nature in a new light. Through the creative use of techniques such as intentional camera movement, long exposures, and special effects, photographers capture the essence of the natural world in stunning detail. Whether displayed as fine art prints or abstract wall art, these images remind us of the profound beauty that surrounds us and encourage us to take a closer look at the world around us.

For the Love of Nature Photography