Introduction to Abstract Photography

Brighton Outdoor Workshop

Aim

In this workshop I will encourage you to flirt with everyday life and follow a playful approach to image-making in a free, unobstructed manner, liberated from its technical restrictions. You will be challenged to go beyond your limits exploring what’s hidden behind what we normally see.

Taking photographs can become a very creative act once we stop thinking about the ‘how to’ and truly start to look at the world with our own eyes.  We then begin to express ourselves through a personal way of ‘seeing’. Being mindful and paying attention to unnoticeable things around you can fundamentally improve your photography skills by exploring the world and objects and investing them with greater visual significance. It will also develop and challenge your thinking about photography.

Suitable for all levels

Objectives

At the end of the workshop you will be able to:

- demonstrate a critical understanding of the basic ideas in abstract photography by identifying and discussing different aspects and elements of an abstract photograph

- identify and discuss some of the different stages in the historical development of abstraction in photography in parallel with other photography and art movements

- demonstrate a practical engagement with abstract photography by taking your own photographs

- critically reflect on the making of your own images and discuss how you mindfully and creatively see and think about the world

General Workshop Outline

10:30- 11:30 

Introductions

Brain Storming on the concept of Abstraction and Abstraction in Photography

Beginning of theory session - looking at various photographers' work and discussing techniques and composition 

11:30 – 11:40

Tea & Biscuits Break (biscuits are provided, bring your own drink)

11:40 - 12:45

Continuation of theory session

By looking at and discussing the works of famous classic and contemporary photographers, this session will provide you with an understanding of some historical developments of abstract photography in parallel with other photographic genres and art movements. You will be engaging in a critical discussion about them reflecting on questions about what makes them abstract, what the intentions of the photographer might be, what the images mean to you based on your own interpretation, and any other questions that might be generated by you. 

12:45 - 13:15 

Lunch Break 

13:15 - 15:15

Play Time - theory into practice

Engaging in playful and mindful activities, you will be taking photographs implementing theory into practice.  You can work on specific themes I will be suggesting or you can choose to shoot freely. I will be guiding you when needed and giving you practical tips on how to achieve your desired results.

15:15 – 15:20

Tea break

15:20 – 16:20

Feedback Time

Looking at each other’s photographs, commenting on them in a non-judgemental environment, reflecting on the creative process of ‘seeing differently’ and articulating it into your own words.

16:20 - 16:30

Summing up on the workshop themes, leaving your workshop feedback, and suggesting ideas for further workshops based on your needs.

Handouts 

At the end of the workshop, I will be sending you e-handouts by email.

Camera guidelines

A  DSLR or mirrorless camera are ideally the best types of cameras you can have if you want to really explore and experiment with photography. However, all camera devices are welcome, including smartphones or tablets and you will still benefit from the workshop.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

No refunds:

- if you cancel within 15 days from the start of the course.

- if the course is cancelled but a new date is scheduled

- if you stop attending it or any sessions of it

Minimum Age

12 years old is the minimum age for participants to attend the workshop on their own. For younger children please contact me.