Abstract photography is also referred to as conceptual, or experimental photography. As a photographer, when I set out with this ideal in mind, I look for interesting juxtapositions that tease the eye and mind, but in a way that the object being photographed is not immediately recognizable. The idea is to try and remove a degree of context in the resulting image. Strong visualization skills help. When I’m out in the field, I try to keep a keen eye for odd angles and curves, as well as patterns, lighting and texture in the natural world, that suggests something other than we know it to be. Abstract photography tickles the brain muscle into “trying to make sense of it”, or rationalizing what we see, and through it, sometimes the banal becomes beautiful; what’s boring becomes bright.

Art is where you find it and often the natural world seems to collaborate to create truly compelling photographic images in the most unexpected places. Sometimes this requires a fair bit maneuvering, to get the right shot angle: flat on the ground looking up; get down underneath your subject, in the roots and under leaves and heavy canopy where the light can fall in such a way; find the highpoint, or hang by one arm from a tree… whatever it takes.

“When I’m ready to make a photograph, I think I quite obviously see in my minds eye something that is not literally there in the true meaning of the word. I’m interested in something which is built up from within, rather than just extracted from without,”

Ansel Adams

There are generally two types of abstract photography: unaltered – that is, only the camera and lens are used to exact an image; interpretive abstract photography, where the photographer alters or manipulates the image using photo editing software, to create often fantastical images that can be exhilarating in their effect.

For the most part, I’m a fan of letting the lens tell the story and do very little editing to the photographs during the finishing and preparation process. However, from time to time an image begs to be tweaked, to draw out some greater effect. Over time, I’ve developed a greater appreciation for the art of abstract photography, and for nature itself.

Most images posted on this page are available in select galleries on the lower BC Coast; enlargements are available here on this site via digital purchase. Enlargements can be printed on traditional archival photo paper, or on canvas or metal. Ask about designer wallpaper and mural / wallhanging enlargements for home decor. Feel free to contact me with any questions or inquiries. 250-715-7977; deanungerauthor@gmail.com