Minimalism Captured on Film

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Minimalism is quickly becoming a conscious lifestyle choice for many. It’s a declaration of independence from clutter — a decision to leave the noise and things that oftentimes just weigh us down. Aside from being a way of life, minimalism can also be achieved when it comes to making images. This can be done through a variety of ways and you may be surprised at how effective it can be in terms of creating film photographs.

Credits: montagu

We’ve listed a few elements that you can try out in your work. Colours, patterns, moods, locations, and subjects are just some of the things that you can focus on when it comes to making minimalist photographs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and play around. After all, staying curious is one way to nurture the spirit and cultivate a sense of adventure.

Pick a Color

If you haven’t used colour as a subject then we highly suggest that you do. Colours whether strong or mellow can be a good choice for minimalist photography. Focus on vibrant subjects and further highlight them by keeping the photo all about their colour. Always keep an eye out for things that have unique hues and gradients.

Credits: bravebird, sobetion, neja & moodification

Place Patterns in Your Shots

Patterns are everywhere, you only need to look around to see them. One great thing about taking minimalist photos is that you can take recurring patterns and just let the photo be all about them. Take inspiration from architecture, art, and nature. Things that repeat themselves can make for great minimalist shots.

Credits: billy_chan, walasiteodito & neja

Make it All About the Mood

One way you can exercise minimalism is by setting the mood and giving it centre stage. Express what you want to say using only a few things. You can paint a fun picture or a serene one just by mixing different elements or toning them down.

Credits: fayeusokoi, natalieerachel & icomewhenieatcaponata

Find a Location

Sometimes, a good view is all you need to create minimalist photographs. Highlight its interesting features by taking out other unnecessary elements. Ask yourself if this certain location can be something you wouldn’t get tired of looking at. If the answer is yes, then take a photo of it. Commit the action to memory and set out to find more of them.

Credits: vicuna, frauspatzi, qrro & icomewhenieatcaponata

The Subject is the Message

Minimalism can also be a way of storytelling. Let the details of your shots give your audience something to think about. Take a photo of a loved one, an important item, or a scene that holds something significant for you. Give your subject the spotlight and let it speak for itself.

Credits: tomkiddo, why-yu & sciencesque

Have you tried minimalism in your creative work? Let us know how you did it by sounding off in the comment section below!

written by cheeo on 2018-07-07 #tutorials #color #subject #location #pattern #mood #minimalism

One Comment

  1. jm60
    jm60 ·

    While the concept of minimalism is an abstract to many and difficult to really define except in a couple of the images. (the rest are close and do give some idea of a dificult concept to put into words, but a number of the images have too much "going on" in the image to be completely true minimalism.) the text is spot on however. However it should also be mentioned that this is where Bokeh can be exploited greatly to enhance the effect and bring the eye of the viewer to focus on the subject without excessive distraction from the background or nearby structure. Patterns and colors help direct the eye of the viewer to the simple subject when used as part of the simple image being presented. I have been doing minimalism off and on since the late 1980's, and sometimes it works- and sometimes it doesn't. Always seek to experiment, and keep an open mind to your results.

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