Eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak. ~ Hans Hofmann
One of the contemplative habits we focus on in Adventures in Seeing is simplicity. Since there is only so much time in our lives (and we don’t know how long that time will be), we want to spend it on what truly matters.
Photography can be a tool for practicing simplicity. If we think of our lives as a frame (the time we have), then to the extent we are able, we need to constantly eliminate the unnecessary from the frame. We can do the same within the frame of our photographs.
However, some “simple” images fall flat. It takes practice to present our subjects without distractions, yet keeping the essence.
The purpose of simplicity or minimalism in photography is to show what really matters.
When simplifying within the frame, keep in mind one or all of the following.
Express essence (blog post link). Invite the viewer to really look at your subject in a way that they might never have before. Light, detail, and contrast can really highlight your subject in a new way.
Tell a story. Show your subject(s) in relationship. In the image below, I wanted to show the hundreds of birds flying around Haystack Rock on Cannon Beach in Oregon. I chose to fill the frame with the birds and only show the tip of the rock.
Evoke emotion (often through colour). This is not limited to abstract photography like the image below. But, it does show an example of colour and shape as the main themes. Such scenes are highly subjective but this one does have an emotional impact for me.
Tips for Simplifying
- Move in close.
- Photograph against a plain or blurred background.
- Photograph the subject in relationships to something else.
- Take advantage of dramatic light, shadows, colour, or contrast (go abstract).
- Create a feeling of spaciousness (through negative space).
Keeping it Simple is a four week on demand workshop. Learn more here.
More Resources on Simplicity
Minimalist Photography: 4 Tips to Keep it Simple with a Maximum Impact
Simplicity and minimalism – concepts I aspire to yet rarely meet. Your examples are each a lesson.
Now, I would have said that you were one person who really brings simplicity to your photographs.
Wonderful post, Kim! I struggle with simplying — our world is so complicated in the 21st century. Love that first image!I
Wow! That first photo in red an purple is really eye-catching and I just love that quotation about eliminating the unnecessary!
I tend to be a hoarder and have so many interests that I’m always seeking to simplify and I manage to do that in some of my photography, but not yet in my life!
Love your whole article, Kim.
I enjoy your Saturday morning letters, Kim. I find your thoughts on simpicity and creating stories and impact through the minimal to not only benefit my photographs but align with my spiritual journey. Thank you.
I am very happy to hear that, Cheryl. Thank you!
I do enjoy your letters every time I get one. Your class on the 50mm was so helpful. I use that lens quit a bit. But I am a Libra and I flop from one end of the spectrum to the other. I wish I could use more of the grunge techniques but keep everything much cleaner than I am trying at the moment.
I love the parallel you draw between photography and life — keeping the unnecessary out of the frame is what I keep striving for too in both realms…but how hard it is! When I saw the first image, I said to myself…ahhh, YES! Your thoughts and inspiration and encouragement continue to be much appreciated, Kim!