We can create truly outstanding images from our nature photography subjects with abstract nature photography.
You may be curious how to best combine what you know about abstract photography with your already fine nature photography techniques to come up with abstract nature photography photos…
I’ll present five tips, techniques, and ideas that give you a place to jump off. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents:
- What is Abstract Nature Photography?
- Abstract Nature Photography – Color
- Abstract Nature Photography – Patterns
- Abstract Nature Photography – Macro
- Abstract Nature Photography – Special Effects
- Displaying Your Abstract Nature Photography
- Final Thoughts
What is Abstract Nature Photography?
Photo by amine chakour via Shutterstock
To define abstract nature photography, we look at what might be considered abstract art in general and how it relates to abstract photography.
From Wikipedia:
“Abstract art uses visual language of shape, form, color and line to create a composition which may exist with a degree of independence from visual references in the world.”
Thus, abstract photography may not represent what is actually seen, but it’s often based on what we observe in the world around us (look at the image above of Antelope Canyon.) I like to describe abstract photography as showing us what else is in those scenes in front of our eyes, whether it’s a detail of that view or an idea in our mind.
Master landscape photographer Mads Peter Iverson has an informative and inspiring YouTube video on the ideas behind this type of photography. You can check it out above.
Nature photography is a pictorial representation of the natural world, be that plants, animals, the sky, the ocean, and anything else not man-made. It can include man-made things, but the image’s main focus is something not man-made.
Combine the main ideas of abstract photography with the main focus of nature photography, and have abstract nature photography, a pictorial representation of aspects of nature that may or may not correlate with what we can see with our own eyes.
Confused? Don’t be. Almost any idea you might have concerning this type of photography will probably work on some level. You just have to try your hand at it.
Abstract Nature Photography – Color
Photo by hanohiki via Shutterstock
Creative use of color will result in images without any overt manipulation. Sometimes, all it may take is zeroing in on a smaller part of the scene, such as the horizon at sunset in the image above.
Other ways to use color for nature photos could include color contrasts, juxtapositions of colors, arranging camera position, or changing lens focal length to capture blocks of color within a scene.
Simple clouds in a blue sky could become abstract photography, depending on how we position them in our frame. Aerial views from a drone can become abstract by how we place color elements within the captured view.
Abstract Nature Photography – Patterns
Photo by Szilard Toth via Shutterstock
Patterns are everywhere, from the night sky to architecture to plant growth and ripples in the sand. In the image above, the pattern of the stones makes for an interesting aerial view of the coastline.
Sometimes the patterns become more obvious when we move further away from the subject. A vineyard, orchard, or wheat field can become an example of abstract nature photography as we move around to encompass the entire field of view. Creative use of color and exposure techniques can further enhance the abstract feel of the image.
Abstract Nature Photography – Macro
Photo by Vangert via Shutterstock
With macro photography of natural subjects, the subject can evoke an abstract art feel all on its own. You may need to get really close, though, as in the image above of a crystal. That hard work pays off, doesn’t it? This image of a rock could be used as an illustration in a sci-fi or fantasy story.
Just by using a macro lens for a 1:1 or lifesize reproduction ratio of an everyday natural object, it can become an example of abstract nature photography. A bug’s eye, a bird’s feather, and a leaf from a tree all look otherworldly when photographed in the extreme close-up views of macro photography.
Abstract Nature Photography – Special Effects
Photo by Vincent Tolley via Shutterstock
Post-processing or in-camera special effects can also be used for abstract nature photography. In the above image, a simple flower has been transformed into a modern art piece reminiscent of Andy Warhol by creative post-processing.
For that image, lots of work was done, posterization, masks, false color, and cloning from the looks of it. You don’t have to do that much, or you can do even more. Follow your creative inspiration.
In-camera special effects can be as simple as selective focus and soft focus or as involved as HDR bracket and merge photography or layering multiple exposures. Whatever you have in mind, you may as well try it out. If it doesn’t work out, move on to something else.
Displaying Your Abstract Nature Photography
I personally love metal as a substrate for my photos…
Printing abstract nature photos on metal offers a unique way to enhance the visual impact of your images while ensuring long-lasting durability. The high-gloss finish of metal prints amplifies colors, contrast, and intricate details, making abstract patterns in nature—such as swirling water reflections, textured tree bark, or dramatic cloud formations—appear more vivid and dynamic. The sleek, modern aesthetic of metal prints also provides a frameless, contemporary presentation that complements a variety of spaces, from galleries to home décor.
If you’re looking for the best quality metal prints, Shiny Prints is an outstanding choice. Unlike volume-focused labs, Shiny Prints specializes exclusively in metal printing, allowing them to perfect their craft and deliver unparalleled results.
They use state-of-the-art F-series dye sublimation printers and custom print profiles to ensure stunning clarity and color accuracy. Every print offers meticulous attention to detail, which makes them an excellent option for showcasing the intricate textures and bold colors that define abstract nature photography. Take it from me – I have numerous prints from these folks, and, man, they are impressive! See what I mean in my video below:
Another advantage of metal prints is their durability. Unlike traditional paper or canvas prints, metal prints are scratch-resistant, waterproof, and fade-proof, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor display.
Shiny Prints takes durability a step further by offering customized mounting solutions and custom-sized prints to fit any space or artistic vision. Their commitment to quality over quantity ensures that every piece meets the highest standards, making them a trusted choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
In other words, if you want your abstract nature photography to stand out with unmatched vibrancy and longevity, Shiny Prints is the go-to lab to bring your vision to life!
Final Thoughts
Photo by Akhmad Dody Firmansyah via Shutterstock
Abstract photography is loads of fun. Adding in some abstract techniques to your nature photography for a beautiful final result has so much upside it’s hard to stop writing about.
Of course, like any photography skill, mastering this type of photography takes time to master…
So, stop reading about it, grab your gear, and make some abstract art. Then go out again, and again, and again – practice makes perfect!
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Hero photo by Attila Csipe via Shutterstock
