Defining Abstract

[jimboudreaux]

Hey everybody, I've been doing a lot of research on abstract photography and what it really is. I've found that being abstract does not necessarily mean that the viewer is unable to discern what the subject actually is. Abstract is simply about using form, color, contrast, curves or even texture. There are also no definite rules when it comes to abstract art. Here's another link for one of the sites I've been studying http://ronbigelow.com/articles/abstr...otography.html. So, we've all been freaking out about how to take a picture of something and hiding what it really is when that's not really what abstract is. The challenge has been good for us all and helped us grow though! Now I'm left with this question... could these be considered abstract?

[Kaye]

Thanks for posting this info Jim, and yes, I think all 3 of your shots are brilliant abstracts. No. 3 I personally would prefer it turned more diagonally, but this is personal taste.

[jimboudreaux]

Kaye, I actually kinda agree with you on that 3rd one. I guess when I was shooting that one it didn't occur to me to get a more diagonal composition. I was in a hurry and regretted it while I was processing those shots later. I guess we live and we learn lol.

[sandrac]

I think the def. of abstract is vague and that is why we struggle with it so
I like the first one I agree the third one would be better turned
and yes the 2ns I guess would be abstract butt does not do anything for me
but I am not a car buff so that might be why

[judyg0313]

Jim, that is what I read also. I like these as abstracts but I would add some unreal effects or distorted effects to them...Is that a hood ornament off a Pontiac? Love it love it....Make wild highlights, lots of contrast, bright colors, and then most anything becomes an abstract. But don't mess with the hood ornament...That's a classic.

[jimboudreaux]

Yes Judy, that is a Pontiac hood ornament lol. I guess I don't do much of the highly distorted effects cuz it's just not my thing. I know how to do that stuff though. I did this one a while back

Thank you everyone for your input