Creative Photography Projects – ExpertPhotography

13 Best Apps to Turn a Photo Into a Painting in 2024

Nick Constant — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 12:11:52 +0000

Are you looking for an app to turn a photo into a painting? There are many different options available on app stores today. Thanks to the advancement of AI, we can use digital editing software to transform our photographs into works of art.

We will explore a wide range of options from simple examples to more complex applications. By the end of this article, you will find the app to turn a photo into a painting that is right for you.

What is an App That Turns a Photo Into a Painting?

If you want to make a special and unique edit of your photographs, you can use an app to turn a photo into a painting. Painters often use photos as a reference for their drawings. These apps take the same influence and apply a painterly style through the use of AI and digital editing software.

These apps are mainly one-click edits. This means you can select the style of painting you like, and your photo will be transformed automatically. Edits like this are easy and quick and can make great decoration ideas or make your social media feed unique.

In this article, we will look at three different ways we can turn our photo into a painting. We will focus on smartphone applications as most photos are now taken on smartphones. To see our recommendations for these apps, you can click the links below:

Smartphone Apps
Desktop Apps
Online Options

Best Smartphone Apps to Turn a Photo Into a Painting

We are dedicating most of our interest to smartphone apps. This is because there is a wide range to choose from, and they make posting our creations to social media much easier.

Every smartphone app does have a tablet version as well. So, if you use tablets daily, you will have the same options.

1. Oilbrush

Supports Devices	Supports Devices iOS
Price	Price Free (Paid Extra Features)
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For A wide range of customization options and high resolution results

The Oilbrush app is invaluable for elevating cherished photographs into breathtaking oil paintings. It’s 29 meticulously crafted presets, and advanced AI technology let you reimagine photos with a simple tap.

It infuses each image with the rich textures and vibrant strokes of a traditional oil painting. The high-resolution outputs reach an impressive 64 MP. This opens up possibilities for large-format prints, canvases, and personalized merchandise.

It has advanced tools like tone controls, retouching, color filters, and canvas adjustments. From its intuitive editing tools to extensive customization options, it is an excellent option to turn a photo into a painting.

Whether you’re a professional or an amateur enthusiast, it provides a seamless experience. It empowers you to create timeless digital masterpieces.

They also have a similar watercolor app called Waterbrush (download for iOS). Both are free apps with in-app purchases. But, to remove the app’s watermarks, you must buy a monthly, yearly, or lifetime subscription.

2. Brushstroke

Supports Devices	Supports Devices iOS
Price	Price Free (Paid Extra Features)
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Allows you to fine tune your edits with a good selection of tools

Brushstroke is one of the most full-featured apps dedicated to digital painting. It offers one of the best tool selections for customizing the look of photo-to-painting.

You can choose the painting style and the canvas types. This helps create more variations through texture. Many apps lock the colors in using the original painting style. Brushstroke lets users choose a color palette, too.

The extra features don’t stop after the painting styles are applied. The app also lets you add a “signature” to your “painting.” You can also print images from the app by sending the work to CanvasPop. And video styles are also an option.

So what’s the downside? Unfortunately, the Brushstroke app is only available on iOS platforms. So, Android users will have to look elsewhere.

Also, adding video styles and extra illustration styles requires further in-app purchases. But the one-time buy isn’t as expensive as other subscription apps in the long run.

3. Tangled FX

Supports Devices	Supports Devices iOS
Price	Price Paid
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Simple interface with simple but effective results

Tangled FX is an excellent photo-to-painting app that produces remarkable results. Many other apps mimic classical painting styles. But the Tangled FX app brings a digital art aesthetic to your images.

This picture-to-painting app lets you choose from 16 different visual styles. It transforms your photos with just a few clicks. You can also fine-tune the image in these presets simply or with a more advanced approach.

Besides being an excellent app to turn photos into paintings, Tangled FX is also great for upscaling small photos. It automatically transforms your image into a higher resolution when you make edits.

I’m a fan of how simple it is to take photos from your camera roll and transform them into works of art. I also like that you can save presets!

I can spend hours fiddling with the app’s photo editing tools. So, the option to save these edits makes a huge difference! Unfortunately, it’s only available for iPads and iPhones.

4. Prisma

Supports Devices	Supports Devices iOS, Android
Price	Price Free (Paid Extra Features)
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Selecting from a wide range of different art styles

Prisma is one of the most well-known and full-featured apps to turn a photo into a painting. It popularized painterly photos in the first place.

It used to be free with in-app purchases, which helped build the app’s popularity. Now, there’s only a free three-day trial on iOS and Android. You must buy the app for full access to all its features.

Prisma now offers more than 36 brushwork styles and 21 paint daubs to apply to images. These are based on different types of painting styles. It also has standard watercolor and paint options. There are more than 700 art styles you can explore!

The app lets users adjust the results besides applying the filter. You can adjust the painting style’s intensity and choose high-definition (HD) renderings. The app also has various sliders for photo editing, with adjustments like exposure, contrast, and saturation.

Renditions are very impressive. But the price might be too steep for casual users.

5. Waterloge

Supports Devices	Supports Devices iOS
Price	Price Free (Paid Extra Features)
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Specializes in watercolors

Waterlogue focuses on a single type of painting—watercolor! While not as broadly applicable as other apps, it achieves its narrow focus very well.

The app uses 14 different presets with different colors and pen outlines. The presets also change the consistency of the “paint,” so you can make those colors run together or keep shapes more distinct.

The iPhone and iPad app doesn’t offer as much control over the effects as others. You can adjust some light and details. But the app hasn’t had as many updates as others and is only available with iOS.

The desktop version offers much more. You can fine-tune paintings with detail controls and create and save your custom styles. It allows you to create custom, high-resolution watercolors you can frame.

6. Picsart

Supports Devices	Supports Devices iOS, Android
Price	Price Free (Paid Extra Features)
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Provides a wide range of editing options, not just painting

Picsart is a bit like Photoshop Express. Users can access filters and sliders, mix photos, and paint on effects. That means fewer apps clogging up your home screen as it can do the job of a few.

On the flip side, this app takes up more space on your phone. Picsart is one of the biggest apps on this list!

If you want only part of your image to look like a painting, Picsart has a more advanced photo edit. The Effects gallery inside Picsart contains many options to turn a photo into a sketch or painting.

Unlike the other apps on our list, Picsart is more than a one-trick pony. The app has other editing options if you don’t want to go the painting route. That also means Picsart isn’t as easy to navigate as other apps with more limited choices. But they do have helpful tutorials.

Picsart is free to download and use for Android, iOS, and Windows users with in-app purchases. But a subscription provides more exclusive content and an ad-free app for a monthly price with Plus and Pro options.

7. Portrait Painter

Supports Devices	Supports Devices iOS, Android
Price	Price Paid
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Turning portraits into paintings

As the name suggests, the Portrait Painter works best with people. It’s also a good app for pet photography. Yet, it doesn’t prevent you from uploading a good landscape.

The app’s price varies, but it’s reasonably cheap for photo editors to download. Video packs and new illustration effects are available for an added price.

Most apps focus on landscapes and still life. But the Portrait Painter app turns images of people into digital paintings and offers several options to customize the look.

You can use the image’s original colors or a brighter palette. You can also adjust the brush and canvas types. This leaves a subtle texture in the final image.

Portrait Painter’s digital paintings don’t have to remain only on your smartphone or social media. The app also lets you easily order a print of your creation through CanvasPop!

8. Glaze

Supports Devices	Supports Devices iOS, Android
Price	Price Free (Paid Extra Features)
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Allows you to mask your edits for great control

Do you want to make your photo look like a painting you physically made or one you already have hanging in your home? Glaze is a free app (with in-app purchases) like no other!

It gives you a Studio mode to quickly generate a few versions of the same image. Or their Workshop mode lets you explore a massive range of styles and variations.

The app even lets you paint masks to restrict where the brushstrokes appear. But my favorite feature is saving an image with a transparent background to use your new creation in another app.

9. GoArt

Supports Devices	Supports Devices iOS, Android
Price	Price Free (Paid Extra Features)
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Simple app with great results

GoArt is a great app by Fotor to turn a photo into a painting. It’s another free app with in-app purchases and an online option. It uses AI technology to create art based on various artistic filters.

This app supports a range of styles, from pop art to oil painting. It lets you turn photos into your favorite style of art. It also provides a straightforward method for turning an image from your camera roll into a work of art.

You don’t get much of a tool selection when it comes to modifying the details of the artwork. Instead, you get a slider that changes its “intensity.”

A unique feature that you do get is a cutout and background remover. It’s a welcome feature because it amplifies the difference between a painting and a photo. It also means you can pick the perfect backdrop with the app to make your subject stand out.

Best Desktop Apps to Turn a Photo Into a Painting

Turning a photo into a painting isn’t only available on mobile apps. If you don’t want to work on your smartphone, here are a few desktop editing software options. One is Adobe Photoshop, and the other is an affordable, non-subscription software bundle.

1. Adobe Photoshop

Supports Devices	Supports Devices Mac, Windows
Price	Price Subscription-based service
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Expert levels of control

If you want the most control when you turn a photo into a painting, use Adobe Photoshop! Photoshop is one of the must-have desktop editing platforms for photographers.

This is especially true if you want to get creative with your photos. Photoshop provides a seemingly endless range of photo editing tools to assist you in changing your picture into a painting.

The downside is that you must learn Photoshop to get the best results. But we have an easy step-by-step guide for turning photos into paintings using Photoshop.

This is best suited for someone who knows the specific style they want. It’s not for someone who wants a quick choice of aesthetics.

The best thing about using Photoshop is that you have total control. That means you can apply as many different manipulations to your image as possible until you get your perfect masterpiece! We show you the best ways to buy Photoshop.

2. Corel PaintShop Pro

Supports Devices	Supports Devices Windows
Price	Price Paid
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Automatic painting creation for desktop users

Corel PaintShop Pro has a one-click, instant-effect option to turn images into sketches or paintings. Users can choose from different painting styles.

The only customization option is the strength of the effects. But after you finish, you can adjust the image inside PaintShop.

As a desktop program that includes other image editing tools, PaintShop Pro isn’t as affordable as the apps. But the full version is much less than a Photoshop subscription in the long run.

Best Online Apps to Turn a Photo Into Painting

Consider online options if you don’t want to download a program onto your computer. This can be the quickest way to turn a photo into a painting for images on a computer.

1. BeFunky

Supports Devices	Supports Devices All, Price
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For Quick and simple painting creation

BeFunky is an online method for turning a photo into a painting. Befunky is an online editor. This platform is more accessible than a phone app. You can drag and drop images straight into the workspace.

Under Artsy, you can find many photo-to-painting options. You can transform your photo using extensive subcategories. Next, you can choose from a selection of different styles. After you have set your effect, you can change its “intensity.”

You can also erase certain sections you don’t want the effect to cover. This is where you can get creative as you can fine-tune the brush size, hardness, and strength.

BeFunky also comes with a range of online editing tools. So this could be a one-stop shop for all your painterly needs! But you must upgrade from the free version for full effects and remove BeFunky watermarks. There are monthly or discounted yearly subscriptions.

2. Fotor

Supports Devices	Supports Devices All, Price
Multiple Painting Styles	Multiple Painting Styles Yes
Fine Tune Painting	Fine Tune Painting Yes
Best For	Best For A wide selection of painting styles without having to download an app

Fotor is a free online image editor. That means there’s no software to download. The software’s GoArt tool turns photos into paintings in several different styles.

Because the software is online, the conversion process can be slow. It’s especially true if you have a slow internet connection.

The program is free to use and includes a good selection of artistic styles. Some are paid, but the majority are free. But you must pay a monthly or discounted yearly subscription to remove GoArt watermarks.

The paid versions include generative AI, tools, edits, and app storage. The latter includes brand kits and batch editing.

Fotor’s image editor is accessible online. But GoArt is a different platform.

How to Turn a Photo Into a Painting Step by Step

Many photography apps are able to turn a photo into a painting, but their processes typically follow a similar approach. The following steps generally work across all apps.

Step 1: Upload a Photo

After downloading the app, upload the photo you’d like to convert. The original photo quality plays a significant role in the result. Photos with more contrasting colors work best. Soft-focus photos can also look good when converted into paintings.

Step 2: Choose a Painting Style

Next, choose the painting style you want. Apps offer different genres based on famous painters or classical art styles. The process is usually automatic after you select the style and the image.

Step 3: Adjust Effects and Export

In some apps, you can adjust the painting effect. After you finish, you can export the painted photo for sharing or printing. As you can see, the process to turn a photo into a painting is simple. But what app should you choose?

Conclusion: Best Photo to Painting Apps

After looking at various applications, we can see many easy ways to turn a photo into a painting! Converting a snapshot into a digital painting is a fun way to jazz up an otherwise dull photo.

The process can help you make a statement, create shareable images, or decorate walls! And thanks to developments in AI tech, finding a program to turn a photo into a painting is easy on any budget.

Try out The Creative Photography Cookbook to take even more mind-blowing images!

Artistic Transformation

Fotor Pictures into Paintings

Looking for inspiration to turn a photo into a painting? Look no further than this software. With various painting styles and customization options, your photos become stunning works of art!

16 Creative Editing Ideas and Techniques for Photography

Christopher Bryan-Smith — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:36:17 +0000

If you’re in a creative rut, these creative editing ideas will help you escape it. I’m sure most of us have used photo editing software before, whether for touch-ups or enhancements. But you can use modern software for much more than tweaks and adjustments.

These creative editing ideas show you how to make the most of photo editing software. We show you how to edit photos in new ways, giving your work a new lease of life. Our article has tutorials on editing techniques that produce truly unique images.

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you can find something to spark your imagination in our list of creative editing ideas!

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16 Creative Editing Ideas and Techniques

This compilation of creative editing ideas will kickstart your passion for digital art. We have a wide range of techniques and concepts, from digital collages to 3D modeling. So, there’s something to excite any photographer or digital artist.

All the tutorials are beginner-friendly. So, they’re accessible even if you’re new to photo editing software and editing.

More experienced readers will have no problem following the instructions. You’ll find something completely new to get their creative juices flowing.

Each section has a link to a full article on that topic, so if anything interests you, follow the links to learn more.

Digital Art

Digital art is a vast and exciting field encompassing various creative processes, from digital painting to 3D artwork. You need a computer or tablet, an input device like a digital art tablet and stylus, and digital artwork software.

As a beginner, you can create many fun projects. You can make comic strips, children’s book illustrations, or alternative movie posters. You can also make local postcards, birthday cards, and photo paintings.

You can also build your digital art portfolio on Instagram to track your progress, connect with others, and get feedback. With the right tools and resources, creating digital art can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for anyone.

Our full-length article is the best place to start if you’d like to learn more about digital art for beginners.

Photo Manipulation

Photoshop has opened up a world of creative possibilities for photo manipulation. With the right techniques, you can transform your images into surreal works of art.

There are some easy photo manipulation ideas. They include digital double exposure, multiplying your subject, or using the “Droste effect.” You can also restructure landscapes, create faceless portraits, or overlay images for dual worlds.

Other ideas involve creating hybrids using photography and illustration. Or, there’s adding magic and movement with cinemagraphs. You can also make your own perspective illusions. With a bit of creativity and Photoshop skills, the possibilities are endless.

Click the link if you’d like to learn more about photo manipulation.

Digital Collage

Digital collage is a technique that combines multiple images using editing software to create a new context. It takes the same cut-and-stick approach as a traditional collage but applies it in a digital environment like Adobe Photoshop.

To make a digital collage in Photoshop, start by selecting photos for your collage. Cut out a section of the main subject to reveal an image beneath it. Add a detailed layer underneath your subject and use collage elements to create different layers.

You can also cut and stick more collage elements, erase and reveal layers, and incorporate the cut-and-stick approach in many ways. Balancing all the elements together can make for an exciting image.

Find out more about digital collage by clicking the link.

Digital Collage Ideas

Digital collage is a powerful artistic genre. It combines photography, graphic design, and traditional skills like painting and drawing.

Modern technology has brought new life to the art of collage. Photoshop and other editing software have redefined the limits of what’s possible!

Collage artists are embracing their surrealist spirit. They use retro aesthetics and teleport viewers to other dimensions.

They combine various media and techniques. They also replace heads to challenge viewers and electrify compositions with vibrant colors. Some artists go minimalist for a strong composition, while others tear it down and put it back together.

Pop culture, past and present, is a significant source of inspiration for digital collage artists. They can also use humor to express themselves and add meaning to their work.

If you want to learn more about digital collages, our ideas will help you create unique and inspiring pieces.

3D Model

Photogrammetry is a process for creating a 3D model from photos. You need a camera, 3D modeling software, and a 3D printer (optional).

Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod. Agisoft Metashape, Regard3D, and VisualSfM are popular 3D modeling software options.

Choose a subject that’s not too large and take photos from different angles, ensuring an 80% overlap between each shot.

Import the images into the software and align them. The software will create a 3D model, which you can 3D print or use for various applications.

Learn more about creating a 3D model from photos with our complete article.

Double Exposure

Double-exposure photography is a creative way to make your photos more interesting. It involves merging multiple images to create surreal, emotional, or humorous results. You can create double exposures in-camera or using editing software like Adobe Photoshop.

There are many ways to experiment with double exposures. Try combining a simple portrait with a detailed texture, or convert your results to black and white for added depth. You can also express emotion through self-portraiture or merge two photos of the same person.

Double-exposure photography is a fun way to unleash your creativity. There are endless possibilities for combining images. And you can transform ordinary photographs into powerful masterpieces!

Our article is a must-see if you want to learn more about creating double-exposure photography images with software.

Photomontage

A photomontage is a series of individual photographs arranged to create a single image. The number of photos, time taken, or locations used to make a photomontage is unlimited.

To create a photomontage, plan out your subject and take more photos than you need, covering every part of the scene. Use imaging software to arrange the photos, following lines in the composition to create an attractive flow.

Experiment with the layout until you’re satisfied with the result.

Printing the photos adds another dimension to the artwork. Stick the prints to a board, using the digital version as a guide. A photomontage lets you explore time and space in ways not possible with a single image.

Get started with a photomontage by reading our full tutorial.

Day-to-Night Photography

Day-to-night photography captures a scene from day to night in a single image. To create one, find a location that works well in daylight and nighttime. Set up your camera on a tripod and use manual focus to keep the focus consistent.

For the daytime shot, shoot during golden hour to avoid harsh shadows. Use a polarizing filter to improve the sky. Increase ISO, widen the aperture, or use a slower shutter speed for the nighttime shot to account for low light.

In post-processing, layer the nighttime image over the daytime one in Photoshop. Add a layer mask to the top layer and blend the two images with the Gradient tool. Paint with a brush to clean up the transition if needed.

Day-to-night photography is a simple yet effective way to create a unique image.

Multiplicity

Multiplicity photography is fun and creative. It’s a way to combine multiple photos of the same person or object into one image using Photoshop.

The key to success is using a tripod to keep your camera in the same position for each shot. This setup ensures consistent lighting and depth of field throughout the photoshoot.

In Photoshop, you’ll layer the images and use the Polygonal Lasso tool to create a selection around the subject in each photo. Then, create a layer mask to reveal or hide parts of the image. Use the Brush tool to refine the edges of the mask for a seamless blend.

Duplicating and rearranging the layers can also create a Warhol-inspired effect. With practice, you’ll master the art of multiplicity photography in no time.

If you’d like to dive deeper into multiplicity photography, read our full tutorial.

Droste Effect

The Droste effect is a creative photography technique. It involves placing a copy of an image inside itself, creating the illusion that the photo repeats infinitely.

To achieve this effect in Photoshop, duplicate the image and scale it down using Free Transform. Place the copy over the area you want to edit and erase the parts you don’t want to show.

Another method is to use an app like PhotoSpiralysis. Import your image and adjust the settings, such as magnification, spirals, and stretch. Then, move the center point to find the perfect combination.

Play around with the settings until you achieve the desired result, then render and save your final image. The Droste effect can produce exciting and unique results, but it may take patience and experimentation to get it right.

Read our full tutorial on the Droste effect if you’d like to learn more.

Harris Shutter Effect

The Harris Shutter effect is a fun way to add movement to your photos. Robert Harris of Kodak created it by re-exposing the same piece of film three times through red, green, and blue filters.

You can recreate this effect digitally using Photoshop or a free program like GIMP. Take three photos of a scene with some movement, then adjust each photo’s red, green, and blue levels.

Merge the three images into one using the “Addition” blending mode in the layers dialogue.

This technique works well with images of smoke, bikers, pedestrians, waves, waterfalls, or rivers. The Harris Shutter effect is a great way to impress your friends and improve your photography and editing skills.

No-Phone Mirror Selfie

Taking a mirror selfie without your phone showing may seem impossible, but it’s quite simple with a little Photoshop magic. All you need is a camera and a large mirror.

First, take three separate photos: one of your left arm, one of your right arm, and one of your face without the camera blocking it. Use manual mode or lock the exposure so all the images appear the same.

In Photoshop, layer the three images on top of each other. Use layer masks to remove half of the top photo, revealing the arm underneath. Add the face photo on top and mask it to fit perfectly.

Touch up any imperfections with the Clone tool, Healing Brush, Patch tool, or Content-Aware Fill.

With some practice, you can take a mirror selfie without the phone showing and create a unique, eye-catching self-portrait.

Sepia Color Photos

Sepia is a warm brown color that can give photos an antique look. Most digital cameras have the option to shoot in sepia tone. You can also create a sepia effect post-processing using Lightroom.

First, convert your image to black and white in Lightroom to create a sepia effect. Then, go to the Split Tones panel and select a golden color for the highlights and a brown color for the shadows.

Use the Balance slider to find the right ratio between shadows and highlights. In the Effect panel, add some grain for an extra vintage touch. You can save your sepia edit as a preset and apply it to other images.

To learn more about creating sepia-colored photos, both in-camera and when editing, check out our detailed guide.

Photos into Paintings

Turning photos into paintings with Photoshop is easy. First, open your photo and a painting you like in Photoshop. Create two new layers and rename them “Pixelate” and “Oil Paint Effect.”

To match the colors from the painting to your photo, select the Pixelate layer and go to Image > Adjustments > Match Colors. Choose the painting as the source and adjust the settings.

Then, add a pixelation effect by going to Filter > Pixelate > Pointillize. Lower the opacity of the Pixelate layer to make the effect more subtle.

Next, select the Oil Paint Effect layer and match the colors again. Go to Filter > Oil Paint and adjust the settings to your liking. Finally, make some final adjustments by going to Image and clicking Auto Tone, Auto Contrast, and Auto Color.

If you want to turn photos into paintings, click the link for the full how-to guide.

Picasso Style Portraits

Creating a Picasso-style portrait in Photoshop is a fun way to add an artistic touch to your images.

The idea is to create a cross-section of yourself by combining two photos, one facing straight ahead and the other turning to the side. When merged, they create an illusion that confuses the eye, like Picasso’s iconic style.

To get started, take two photos of yourself—one facing the camera and the other turned 90 degrees to the side. For the best results, use a plain background and natural light.

Open both images in Photoshop, placing the side-facing photo on top with a 50% opacity to line up the key features.

Add layer masks to each image and paint black on the areas that don’t overlap. Use a soft brush to blend the two images seamlessly for the finer details.

Pay close attention to the nose, making it appear to face both forward and to the side. With some practice and adjustments, you’ll have a unique Picasso-style portrait that’s sure to impress.

Create a Picasso-style portrait using our step-by-step guide!

Tiny Planet

Tiny planet photography is a fun way to capture your surroundings from a new perspective. By stitching together multiple photos, you can create a “tiny planet” effect that’s sure to impress.

To create a tiny planet, look for images with strong vertical elements like trees or buildings. Photos with a clear blue sky and simple ground texture work best. Open your image in Photoshop, straighten the horizon, and prepare the edges by matching the left and right sides.

Next, create a square aspect ratio, flip the image vertically, and apply the polar coordinates filter. With a few finishing touches to clean up the seam and adjust the background, you’ll have an out-of-this-world tiny planet photo.

If you’d like to learn more about tiny planet photography, we have a detailed guide covering everything you need.

13 Creative Lighting Ideas for Photography

Joshua Dunlop — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 11:51:10 +0000

Lighting is one of the key elements of photography. A photographer can’t operate without it. But it can also be an area of creativity and expression. You can use light in different ways to create different types of photographs.

With just a few tweaks to the lighting, you can transform an image’s mood or atmosphere. These creative lighting ideas will improve your skills. And they’ll give you more control over one of photography’s most vital ingredients.

Our article is the best starting point for learning about creative lighting. It has information on slow-sync flash, firelight, sparks, and loop lighting. Each section has a link to an in-depth article on the subject, so remember to click the link to find out more.

Recommended Courses With Creative Lighting Ideas

SLR Lounge’s Lighting 201

Lighting 3 by SLR Lounge

Lighting 4 by SLR Lounge

13 Creative Lighting Ideas

Are you an experienced photographer? Experiment with these creative lighting ideas. They’ll enhance your skills and broaden your perspective. And if you’re going through a lull, trying a new type of lighting can reinvigorate your passion for photography.

We kick off our list with some advice on DIY lighting before moving on to techniques like slow-sync flash. We also cover more ambient forms of light, like natural, candle, and firelight.

Not all the tutorials will be for you, but we’re sure a few will pique your interest. You’ll also learn skills to apply to different types of photography. That’s why anyone from fine art to portrait photographers can learn something from our article.

Experimenting with different types of lighting is fun and educational. Understanding light and what to do with it gives you more creative control. It’s true whether you’re shooting portraits or landscapes.

Photo by Ben Collins (Unsplash)

DIY Lighting

You can create DIY photography lighting using simple items. Use flashlights and light modifiers made from repurposed materials. Most of these can be found at home, but you may need to visit a hardware store for some supplies.

Make a basic DIY diffuser by stretching white fabric across a large picture frame or rectangular frame made from plastic pipes. This technique creates a softbox effect. The distance between the light source and the diffuser determines it’s harshness or softness.

White and black poster boards also make effective reflectors and flags. Use them to bounce light onto the subject or block it to create moody shadows.

Fairy lights are another versatile DIY lighting option. You can incorporate them into photos in various ways. Have the model hold them, string them in the background, or place them in front of the lens for a dreamy bokeh effect.

Our article offers many creative techniques for those who want to learn more about DIY photography lighting. Explore and experiment with them all.

DIY Light Reflector

Making a DIY light reflector is a simple way to improve your photography lighting. All you need is some foam board or cardboard, scissors, tape, and, as an option, aluminum or golden tin foil.

First, decide on the size of your reflector based on your subject and the amount of light you want to reflect.

Cut the reflector to size and attach white paper or foil using tape. If using foil, wrap it tightly around the board and secure it with strong tape on the back. Use the dull side of the foil for a more diffused reflection.

To set up your reflector, use bulldog clips on smaller reflectors to create stands or prop larger ones against tripods or other objects. Experiment with different angles to achieve the desired lighting effect on your subject.

With a DIY light reflector, you can easily improve your photo lighting without expensive equipment.

Slow-Sync Flash

Slow-sync flash is a creative technique for capturing stunning low-light photos. It involves using a slower shutter speed combined with a flash. This setup lets you freeze motion while capturing ambient light trails in the background.

You need a camera with manual controls and a flash to use slow-sync flash. Set a slow shutter speed. Then, choose either the first curtain sync (the flash fires at the beginning of the exposure) or the second (the flash fires at the end).

The first curtain sync makes light trails appear in front of your subject. The second curtain sync places them behind.

Mastering slow sync flash requires experimentation, but the results are worth it. You can capture unique images with a strong sense of motion and beautiful background detail.

Our in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about slow-sync flash photography.

Ring Flash

A ring flash is a versatile lighting tool that can improve your photography. It fits around your lens and provides even 360-degree lighting on your subject. This setup reduces harsh shadows and creates a unique catchlight in the subject’s eyes.

Ring flashes are popular for macro, portrait, fashion, food, and underwater photography. They allow you to keep your ISO low and shutter speed fast, even when shooting close-up subjects.

In complex lighting setups, a ring flash can be used as a key or fill light. Many ring flash options are available, from dedicated units to adapters that work with your existing flash. Prices range from budget-friendly to professional-grade.

Our full article is the perfect starting point for those interested in ring flash lighting.

Natural Light

Natural light is the best light for photography. It’s free and available any time of day. The key is knowing how to work with different types of natural light to get the best results.

Direct light is great for emphasizing textures and creating dramatic shadows. Sidelight creates a moody, atmospheric look perfect for portraits, food, and still-life photography.

Soft light from cloudy days is even and balanced, making it a photographer’s best friend. Backlight is when the light source is directly behind your subject. It can create dramatic silhouettes or dreamy sun flares.

Golden hour light is before sunset and after sunrise. It’s soft and warm, allowing you to shoot from any angle. By using natural light techniques like these, you can take your photography to the next level.

Candlelight

Candlelight photography creates a soft, warm glow that evokes emotion in your images. Use a tripod and adjust your camera settings for the low light to capture the best shots.

A wide aperture lens, like a 50mm f/1.8 prime, will let in more light and create a shallow depth of field that complements the soft candlelight.

Position your subject carefully and check the entire frame before shooting. You can use extra candles to add background light or reflectors to bounce light back onto your subject and define their outline in the dim setting.

Meter the light based on your subject. And experiment with their positioning to find the most flattering shadows.

Candlelight photos offer many creative possibilities. It includes everything from barely visible subjects emerging from darkness to subtly lit shadows. Candlelight photography is a great way to create unique, atmospheric images.

Fairy Lights

Fairy light photography is a fun way to take eye-catching photos while improving your lighting skills. You can use fairy lights to create dreamy self-portraits at home or stunning background bokeh with colored lights.

White string lights are perfect for glowing portraits in the dark. Cover part of your lens with the lights to add a gorgeous foreground to your shots. You can also use a long exposure to capture surreal photos of moving light.

Combine a clear umbrella with fairy lights for moody photos, or turn a kerosene lamp into a unique light holder. Fairy light photography lets you get creative and express yourself.

To learn more about fairy light photography, check out our in-depth guide.

Fire Light

Fire photography is an exciting genre that lets you capture powerful images of flames, sparks, and glowing subjects. To take the best fire photos, use a narrow aperture like f/8 for sharp details or a slow shutter speed to show movement.

You can also use fire as a creative light source for portraits. But always prioritize safety when working with fire. Shoot in a spacious area away from flammable objects, keep your models safe, and have a fire extinguisher nearby.

You can capture friendly bonfire atmospheres, mysterious silhouettes, and beautiful bokeh. You can even recreate light leaks with the right techniques.

Fire photography encourages you to master your camera settings and think quickly. You can explore endless creative possibilities. Our article is a must-read if you want to learn more about capturing stunning fire photos safely and creatively.

Light Sticks

Light stick photography is a fun and easy way to add flair to your photos. Use a light stick to create interesting patterns and designs by drawing in the air during a long exposure.

LED light sticks are a popular choice for light painting. They come in many colors and use less power than flashlights. Experiment with different light sources to make your images unique.

To begin with, you need a camera, tripod, remote, and portable lights. Set up in a dark location and use manual settings. Focus the camera, then start painting with the light off. Turn it on when you hear the shutter open, and turn it off before it closes.

Light painting is experimental, so try writing words, making abstract shapes, or adding color with gels. Basic edits like exposure, contrast, and noise reduction can improve light painting photos.

Read the full post if you’d like to learn more about light stick photography.

Prism

Prism photography is a fun way to add creative effects to your photos without Photoshop. Prisms can bend light to create rainbow colors, dreamy looks, and reflections in your images. They’re also affordable and fit in almost any camera bag.

You only need a triangular glass prism and a camera to get started. Place the prism close to your lens and slowly move it around to see the different effects you can create. Use manual focus and Live View to avoid focusing issues caused by the prism.

Experiment with placing the prism’s edge towards the camera for rainbow effects. Or, use reflections to create mirror images and doubles. With the prism, you can add extra light to your photos or hide unwanted background elements.

You can even blend objects or create kaleidoscope effects with trial and error. Prism photography is a playful way to make unique images.

Starburst

You need a small aperture, like f/11 to f/22, to create a starburst effect in your photos. This setting closes the blades inside your lens. It creates a small opening that diffracts light from the sun or other bright sources, resulting in a starburst look.

During the day, partially cover the sun with an object like a tree or building to avoid overexposure. At night, street lamps work well without needing to be covered. Use a tripod and low ISO to minimize noise in low light.

Experiment with different aperture sizes and compositions to create the perfect starburst effect. Use Lightroom’s “whites” or “recovery” slider in post-processing to bring back detail in overexposed areas.

Starburst effects are a simple way to add visual interest to your photos.

Sparks

Steel wool photography creates stunning images with flying sparks. You’ll need a camera, tripod, shutter release cable, steel wool, string, a metal whisk, lighter, and protective gear. Choose a safe location away from flammable materials.

Pack grade 000 or 0000 steel wool into a metal whisk attached to a 1-1.5m string. Wear gloves, a hat, and safety glasses. Set your camera to manual mode with a small aperture, low ISO, and a 5- to 20-second shutter speed.

Light the steel wool and start spinning as you press the shutter button. Try different spinning techniques, such as vertical, horizontal, or walking, for unique effects.

Steel wool photography is a creative way to capture incredible images with simple tools.

Loop Lighting

Loop lighting is a popular portrait technique that creates a small shadow of the subject’s nose on their cheek.

To achieve this effect, position the light source slightly above eye level and angle it down to create the desired shadow size. The ideal angle is around 45 degrees.

Move the light until the nose shadow is just about right—not too large or fused with the cheek shadow. If the light is too high, you’ll lose the catchlights in the subject’s eyes, resulting in a lifeless image.

Loop lighting tends to flatter most faces, making it a go-to choice for many portrait photographers. Explore our in-depth guide to learn more about l oop lighting and how to master this technique.

How to Take Abstract Photos: A Complete Guide

Trevor Marshall — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 11:41:13 +0000

Although abstract photos are, well, abstract, the principles can be applied to more concrete photography niches. Urban photography, or landscapes can all offer opportunities to find abstract beauty.

We invest a lot of energy in making our photos clear and easy to understand. So it can seem strange to consider making them abstract and even confusing. But making our viewers think hard as they look for meaning can bring a whole new depth to our work. And sometimes a photo is beautiful in itself, without having to be anything.

What Is Abstract Photography?

Abstract photography takes the idea of “painting with light” quite literally. It creates light pictures that are different from almost every other photography genre.

Like abstract painting or sculpture, the aim isn’t to reproduce accurate representations of things we see. Instead, beauty and meaning are the aim. It is both liberating and challenging. The good news is you don’t need much more than a basic camera or phone and your own creativity and imagination.

Getting Started With Abstract Photography

Armed with your camera, it is time to get out there and try some abstract photography. We’ve put together a bunch of ideas for you to try.

Soap Bubbles

Soap bubble photography is a fun and creative way to capture stunning images. To get started, mix a few drops of glycerin with liquid soap and water to create a longer-lasting bubble solution. Set up a simple desktop studio with a black background, tripod, and light source.

Use a macro lens or telephoto lens to get close-up shots of the bubbles. Stabilize your camera on a tripod and use a remote or self-timer to avoid camera shake. Use a small aperture between f/11 and f/16 for a deep depth of field, and adjust your shutter speed and ISO based on your lighting.

Experiment with different lighting angles to create shadows and dimension in your images. Use Burst mode to capture multiple shots as the bubbles form and pop. With patience and practice, you can create endlessly surprising results.

Our detailed guide to bubble photography will tell you everything you need to know about this fun idea.

Crystal Balls

Crystal ball photography is a creative way to capture unique perspectives in your images. To get started, you’ll need a crystal ball, camera, wide-angle lens, and tripod. A crystal ball holder or bottle top can help keep the ball still.

When choosing a subject, make sure it fills the frame with a wide-angle lens. Landscapes, architecture, and portraits all work well. For the best composition, find a natural divot or elevated surface to place the ball.

Pay attention to the background to enhance your crystal ball photography. Use leading lines or blur the background with a large aperture. With the right lighting and aperture settings, you can create stunning images.

Crystal ball photography is a fun way to add creativity to your work, and our full-length article has everything you need to know about it.

Filters and Prisms

Fractal photography is a unique way to create stunning images using special filters. These filters are made of glass and use refraction to bend light in interesting ways. Each filter has a different cut that produces effects like kaleidoscopes, double exposures, and rainbows.

To use a fractal filter, hold it in front of your camera lens and experiment with different angles. Focus on the subject within the filter, not the background. A kit lens or macro lens with a focal length between 40 and 100mm and an aperture around f/4.

Fractal filters aren’t the only way to use refraction creatively. You can also try using a regular prism, a lensball, or even glass objects like wine glasses as a lens. With some experimentation, you can create unique and eye-catching photos.

If you’d like to learn more about fractal photography, check out our full-length article.

How to Choose and Use Specialist Equipment

Even though you can get great abstract photography photos without specialist equipment, there are some bits of gear that can take your work to a new level.

The Fisheye Lens

Fisheye lenses are unique tools that produce extreme wide-angle images with distortions that curve straight lines. They have a 180-degree field of view, creating a hemispherical perspective.

Fisheye lenses are great for capturing wide panoramic views of landscapes and the night sky. They’re also useful for emphasizing the height of buildings and monuments in urban environments. When photographing people or animals up close, fisheye lenses can create funny, exaggerated proportions.

One drawback of fisheye lenses is the inability to use standard filters due to the bulging front element. However, you can learn more about fisheye lens photography and techniques to work around this limitation.

Freelensing

Freelensing is a technique that involves detaching the lens from the camera mount to create a tilt-shift effect. This alters the plane of focus, allowing you to blur specific areas regardless of their position in the frame.

To freelens, use an interchangeable lens camera and a lens with a manual aperture ring. Twist and slightly detach the lens from the mount, then tilt it to change the focus area. Use manual settings and focus before detaching the lens.

Freelensing can introduce light leaks and dust spots on the sensor, so be careful when using this technique. If you want to learn more about freelensing, we have a detailed guide that covers everything you need to know.

Using a Projector

Projector photography involves projecting images onto subjects or objects for creative effects. To get started, you’ll need a projector with at least 3,500 lumens brightness and a small size for easy placement.

When choosing photos to project, look for images with negative space to place your subject. Patterns and open landscapes work well. Set up the projector in a dark room, adjust the focus and keystone, then connect your computer via HDMI.

Use a wide aperture, high ISO, and shutter speeds between 1/60th to 1/100th second for proper exposure. Stand behind the projector or at an angle to avoid casting shadows. Experiment with long exposures, unique backdrops, and editing for vivid colors.

Our full-length article has everything you need to know about projector photography.

Slow-Sync Flash

Slow-sync flash is a creative technique for capturing photos in low light. It involves using a slower shutter speed while firing your flash, allowing you to freeze motion while also capturing ambient light trails.

To use slow-sync flash, set your camera to a slower shutter speed, like 1/8th of a second. Then, choose either first-curtain sync (flash fires at the beginning of the exposure) or second-curtain sync (flash fires at the end). First-curtain sync can make light trails appear in front of your subject, while second-curtain sync will place them behind.

Experiment with different shutter speeds and flash timing to create unique effects. You can also try moving your camera during the exposure for abstract light trails. Slow-sync flash takes some practice, but it’s a fun way to get creative with flash photography.

More Abstract Photography Ideas to Try

The beauty of abstract photography is that you can introduce elements of it into more conventional images. Continue reading for ideas on how to do exactly this.

Lens Flare

Lens flare photography is a technique that captures the unique effect of light hitting the lens directly. This creates reflections inside the lens, resulting in distinct orbs or polygonal shapes in the image. The size and appearance of the flare depend on the angle of the light and the number of aperture blades in the lens.

To achieve lens flare, shoot directly into the sun during sunrise or sunset when the light is less harsh. Angle your lens so the sun is 35 to 75 degrees behind your subject for the best effect. You can also create flare indoors using artificial light sources like a flash.

Experiment with different aperture settings to change the look of the flare. A wide aperture will produce smooth, circular orbs, while a narrow aperture will result in smaller, more defined shapes. If you want to learn more about lens flare photography, check out our full-length article.

Photoelasticity

Photoelasticity is a fun and easy photography project that can boost your creativity. All you need are some clear plastic objects, a polarizing filter, and a source of polarized light like an LCD screen.

To set it up, place the plastic object on your screen and photograph it with the polarizing filter. Any camera will work, even a smartphone. Focus manually and use the widest aperture for a shallow depth of field to blur the screen pixels.

Experiment with different clear plastic objects like glasses, straws, cutlery, and food packaging to find interesting stress patterns. Combine objects and use photoelasticity creatively, like making a composite image or capturing unique shapes.

Check out our full-length article for everything you need to know about photoelasticity.

Visual Metaphor

Visual metaphors are a powerful way to add depth and meaning to your photos. By using everyday objects to represent ideas and emotions, you can create images that resonate with viewers on a deeper level.

One simple way to create a visual metaphor is by using symmetry to convey a sense of peace or balance. Natural reflections and symmetrical backgrounds are great for this. Props like paper butterflies or confetti can symbolize freedom and joy, while mirrors can represent self-reflection.

Elements of nature, like flowers, often suggest growth and spirituality in an image. Stairs can metaphorically represent a challenging or hopeful journey, depending on the subject’s placement and direction.

Merging two contrasting photos, such as a silhouette with a landscape, can also make a striking visual metaphor. With a little creativity, you can find metaphorical potential in the ordinary objects around you.

To learn more about using metaphor in photography, check out our in-depth article.

Some Different Abstract Photography Niches

Although abstract photos are, well, abstract, the principles can be applied to more concrete photography niches. Urban photography or landscapes can all offer opportunities to find abstract beauty.

Minimalist

Minimalist photography is about capturing simple yet compelling images. Use negative space to emphasize your subject and create a sense of simplicity. Clean lines and shapes can also make bold statements while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.

Symmetry is another powerful tool in minimalist photography. Placing your subject in the center of the frame along a dividing line can create harmony and balance. Patterns and textures can also become subjects themselves when used as frame-filling elements or repeating patterns.

Color contrast and complementary colors are key to making your minimalist photos stand out. Black-and-white photography is also incredibly effective for stripping an image down to its bare essentials.

With minimalist photography, you can tell a story using just a few elements. Studying minimalism in other art forms can help deepen your understanding of the style. Minimalist photography is a growing trend that offers a refreshing escape from the clutter of modern life.

Our full-length article on minimalist photography has everything you need to know.

Landscape

Abstract landscape photography pushes the boundaries of traditional landscape photography. It involves capturing the environment in a way that emphasizes shapes, textures, colors, and patterns. This can create images that are visually intriguing and sometimes disorienting.

There are many techniques you can use to create abstract landscape photos. Try an aerial perspective with a drone to flatten the environment into a 2D canvas. Use camera movement during a long exposure to add a sense of energy and physicality to the image.

Converting to black and white can also be effective, as it removes distractions and allows the interplay of light and shadow to take center stage. Experimenting with shallow depth of field, minimalist composition, and photographing through glass can also yield interesting abstract results.

Check out our full-length article to learn more about abstract landscape photography.

Aerial Landscape

Aerial photography offers a unique perspective on the landscape. By capturing scenes from above, you can create abstract images that play with our understanding of the environment.

One way to find potential locations is by using Google Earth. This tool provides a top-down view of the Earth, allowing you to explore and gain inspiration. Keep in mind that factors like season and weather can change the landscape.

Drones are a great option for aerial photography due to their flexibility. They can fly close to uneven ground or just above the tree line, capturing dynamic images without the need for a dedicated runway.

You’ll find plenty of ideas and more about aerial landscape photography in our full-length article.

Nature

Abstract nature photography is a unique way to capture the world around us. By focusing on elements like line, texture, shape, and color, you can create images that speak to the senses.

One technique is to use intentional camera movement during a long exposure. This creates a painterly effect that emphasizes the photographer’s process as well as the quality of the subject. Another approach is to photograph reflections on water surfaces, taking advantage of the fluid nature of water to create surreal images.

Close-up or macro photography is also effective for abstract nature shots. By removing a sense of scale and relying on compositional elements, you can create images that draw the viewer in and make them aware of their own space within the photograph.

Take a look at our guide if you’d like to learn more about abstract nature photography.

Macro

Abstract macro photography is a creative way to capture everyday objects in a unique and eye-catching manner. By focusing on patterns, colors, and textures, you can create stunning images that leave viewers captivated. To get started, try experimenting with different household items like fabric, glass, or even food.

Lighting is key in abstract macro photography. Use a flashlight or LED light to illuminate your subject from various angles, highlighting interesting details and casting shadows. You can also use colored gels to add a pop of color to your shots.

Composition is another important aspect to consider. Play around with different angles and perspectives to find the most visually appealing arrangement. Filling the frame with your subject can create a powerful impact.

For more tips and techniques on abstract macro photography, be sure to explore our in-depth guide.

Portrait

Faceless portrait photography is a unique way to capture emotions and tell stories without relying on facial expressions. By focusing on other elements like hands, posture, and hair, you can create compelling images that stand out.

Faceless portraits allow you to explore many sub-genres of photography. Try outdoor shots for an anonymous street photography feel, underwater portraits emphasizing movement, or macro closeups of body parts. Experimenting with these styles can reignite your passion for photography and improve your skills across multiple genres simultaneously.

Without the distraction of faces, faceless portraits draw attention to subtle details like clothing textures and body language. They also encourage you to appreciate your surroundings and find creative opportunities in unexpected places. Faceless portrait photography is a powerful way to tell relatable stories, showcase your favorite things, and express yourself without worrying about face lighting or insecurities.

Check out our in-depth article for everything you need to know about faceless portrait photography.

Editing Abstract Photography

Sometimes a picture can be made abstract by editing. And sometimes it might not be certain if the image is abstract or surreal. It doesn’t really matter as long as it serves the purpose of being an engaging, pleasing photograph.

Abstract Editing

Creating abstract portraits in Photoshop is a simple process. Start by opening your portrait and texture images in Photoshop. Adjust the texture layer’s blending mode to get the desired effect, such as Multiply, Screen, Overlay, or Soft Light.

Use adjustment layers like Curves or Levels to color-correct the textures and blend them seamlessly with the portrait. Convert the image to black and white if desired, or add a vintage or futuristic feel using color adjustments. Refine the composition by transforming, blurring, or masking textures as needed.

Sharpen specific details like eyes, hair, or skin using the High Pass filter to make them stand out. By experimenting with different textures and adjustments, you can create stunning and surreal abstract portraits that showcase your creativity and Photoshop skills.

Check out our full-length article for everything you need to know about making abstract portraits in Photoshop.

Surreal Photography

Surreal photography challenges admirers to change their perspectives and question their values. This unique genre has inspired photographers to recreate their wildest dreams, breaking the shackles of a stale imagination and redefining the possibilities of photography.

Surrealist photographers use various techniques to subvert the world we perceive as real. They employ forced perspective, double exposure, and post-production editing to create images that blur the lines between reality and fantasy.

Modern technology has opened up even more opportunities for creating surreal photographs. From underwater portraits to distorted landscapes, surreal photography continues to captivate and inspire. We have gathered together some examples of surreal photography examples and ideas for you to explore.

Be sure to check out our full list of great surreal photography examples.

What Is Kirlian Photography?

Kirlian photography, also known as aura photography, captures eerie images surrounded by vibrant light. Discovered in 1939 by Semyon and Valentina Kirlian, it involves using a photographic plate and a high-voltage source to create electric coronal discharges around an object. The air becomes electrically charged, surrounding the subject with an aura-like appearance.

While some claim Kirlian photography can help understand a person’s physical or mental state, there isn’t enough scientific evidence to support this. The paranormal side of Kirlian photography has led to controversy, with some believing the electricity intensifies the aura of a living being, while others attribute it to science.

Kirlian photography provides a unique opportunity to experiment with a new genre, featuring silhouettes and appealing colors. Whether you believe in auras or not, it showcases the importance of curiosity and innovation in photography.

Take a look at our full article if you’d like to learn more about Kirlian photography.

Inspirational Abstract Photography

Abstract photography is a captivating genre that focuses on shape, form, color, texture, and light. These elements are the main focus of the image rather than a means to an end. The photographs often perplex and mesmerize viewers in equal measure.

One way to create abstract photos is by getting close to your subject. This reveals intricate details and generates a sense of intimacy. Architecture and industrial sites are also great subjects for abstract photography due to their variety of colors, shapes, and textures.

Experimenting with different techniques can yield interesting results. Introducing camera movement during a long exposure creates painterly effects. Using water as a reflective surface can reinforce or completely change the subject matter. Macro photography makes details shine and reveals complex, eye-catching scenes.

These examples of abstract photography demonstrate the limitless possibilities of this genre.

Macro Photography Ideas You Should Try Today

Nick Constant — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 13:45:49 +0000

Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of macro photography? You’ve landed in the perfect spot! Today, we’re embarking on a journey of macro photography ideas that will transform your photos into breathtaking masterpieces.

We will cover simple ideas that you can try at home as well as more advanced subjects such as insects and even eyes! Each section will touch on a different subject, and we will guide you on the top points to consider when shooting these subjects.

Macro Photography Ideas

First, let’s examine some different approaches to macro photography. This section will cover different genres and visual aesthetics that macro photography can fit into.

We will dissect each approach you can take. Each section will look at composition, camera settings, and lighting. To get the most out of each particular section, read the linked articles.

Abstract

Abstract macro photography is a creative way to capture everyday objects in a unique and eye-catching manner. By focusing on patterns, colors, and textures, you can create images that are both visually striking and thought-provoking. Experimenting with different angles, lighting, and compositions can lead to endless possibilities for abstract macro shots.

Some ideas to get started include capturing the intricate details of a feather, the swirling patterns in a drop of oil, or the vibrant colors of a piece of candy. You can also play with depth of field to create a dreamy, ethereal look or use backlighting to highlight the translucency of your subject. The key is to let your imagination run wild and see the world through a different lens.

With a little practice and creativity, you can transform ordinary objects into extraordinary works of art. To dive deeper into the world of abstract macro photography and learn more techniques and tips, be sure to explore our comprehensive guide.

Fine Art

Capturing stunning fine art macro photos is all about the light. Midday cloudy light is perfect because it’s soft and subtle, giving your subject a nice glow. This diffused light hits your subject from all sides, so you can shoot from any angle that works best for your composition.

To make your photos really pop, create subject-background contrast using a wide aperture like f/2.8 to f/4. Get in close to your subject for an intense background blur. Look for engaging lines and curves to lead the viewer through the frame, and think of your subjects in terms of their geometric components.

Simplicity is key in abstract fine art macro photography. Use a single subject with a non-distracting background and limit yourself to two or three colors. You can also create minimalistic compositions by framing your subject against the sky. For a beautiful bokeh effect, shoot on a clear evening with your subject in the shade and the background lit by golden sun. Fine art macro photography is all about being creative, so don’t be afraid to experiment with techniques like intentional camera movement for unique, artistic results.

On A Budget

Macro photography is a fascinating genre that doesn’t have to be expensive. With a few inexpensive accessories, you can turn your existing camera and lenses into a macro photography setup.

Extension tubes and screw-on diopters are two affordable options for increasing magnification. Extension tubes fit between your camera and lens, while diopters screw onto the front of your lens like a filter. Both allow you to focus closer and capture more detail.

Reversing your lens is another cheap macro photography trick. With an inexpensive adapter, you can mount your lens backwards on your camera for extreme close-ups. Lighting is also important in macro photography. A ring light that attaches to the front of your lens provides soft, even illumination for your subject. Creative macro photography doesn’t have to break the bank – with a little ingenuity, you can capture stunning close-ups on a budget.

Black and White

Black and white macro photography is all about contrast. Look for scenes with strong light, like during the golden hour or midday sun. Shoot backlit subjects against the sky for striking silhouettes.

Choose subjects that contrast with their background, like a dark flower against a light backdrop. Keep compositions simple with uncluttered backgrounds and a single point of focus. zoom in on small, isolated details for compelling shots.

Seek out interesting textures, as they add mood and visual interest to black and white images. Include negative space around your subject to help it stand out. Finally, improve contrast in post-processing to give your black and white macros extra impact. Black and white macro photography is a great way to create stunning, fine art images.

Subject Ideas

Now, let’s explore the vast array of subject matter that can be captured with macro photography. From everyday objects to the most elusive insects, each idea presents a unique challenge and opportunity. So, get ready to unleash your creativity and find the best way to capture these subjects.

Flower

Flower photography is a fun and easy way to take beautiful pictures. Flowers come in many colors, shapes, and sizes, making them great subjects for photography. You can find flowers almost anywhere, from your backyard to local parks and gardens.

To get the best flower photos, use a macro lens or get close to your subject. This will let you capture all the details and textures of the flower. Pay attention to lighting too – soft, diffused light works best for flower photography.

Experiment with different angles and compositions to make your flower photos more creative. Try shooting from above, below, or at eye level with the flower. You can also use shallow depth of field to blur the background and make the flower stand out. If you’d like to learn more about flower photography, there are many helpful resources available here.

Abstract Flower

Abstract flower photography is a style that doesn’t reveal everything at first glance. It demands a closer look to be understood. Flowers can be found anywhere and all have unique designs, so you can experiment with different kinds in one day without spending a lot of money or traveling.

Once you master abstract flower photography, you’ll be able to adapt to any lighting or setting. Use a macro lens to capture as many details as possible, or crop photos taken with other lenses. A large aperture will let you focus on specific parts of the flower while blurring the background.

Experiment with different angles, lighting, and techniques like intentional blur or double exposures to create unique abstract photos. Shooting in front of a black background can create a moody atmosphere, while using transparent fabric can result in otherworldly silhouettes. Read on to learn more about abstract flower photography.

Food

Macro food photography is a great way to capture the beauty and detail of your food. Vegetables, fruits, sweets, beans, and grains are all interesting subjects that are cheap, easy to find, and come in a variety of sizes, colors, shapes, and textures.

When doing close up or macro photography, the food is the star of your image. Try to avoid over complicating your scene with many different elements. A minimalist approach and clever use of negative space is often better.

You can get creative photographing food in many ways, such as taking close ups, or opening them up and capturing the inside. Experiment with things like backlighting sliced fruits. Small ingredients like coffee beans, black pepper, and sugar crystals can also make perfect subjects for macro and extreme close up images. click here if you’d like to learn more about macro food photography.

Eye

Eye photography allows you to capture beautiful, otherworldly photos of the human iris. The best way to take these incredible shots is with a dedicated macro lens, which lets you get super close without losing sharpness. Look for a lens with a minimum focal length of 100mm.

To get the most out of your macro lens, use a low ISO like 100-400 to avoid noise. A narrow aperture like f/8 or f/11 will give you a larger depth of field, making it easier to get your subject in focus. Ask your model to keep their eyes still and use a shutter speed of at least 1/120 s to avoid motion blur.

Lighting is key for capturing the details of the iris. Natural light from a shaded area or window works well. You can also use continuous artificial lights like lamps or softboxes. Place the light to the side to avoid shadows and give your subject a moment to adjust before taking the shot. With the right technique and equipment, you can take stunning eye photography that offers an incredible view of the windows to the soul.

Insect

Insect photography opens up a fascinating world of tiny creatures. The best time to capture insects is in the morning when they are less active. Look for them near bodies of water or in flower fields.

Use a macro lens with a focal length of at least 90mm to avoid scaring off the insects. A remote shutter release and tripod will help minimize camera shake for sharp images. Keep your ISO low and use the fastest shutter speed possible.

To learn more about insect photography, check out our in-depth guide covering the best equipment, camera settings, and techniques for stunning close-up shots of these amazing creatures.

Butterfly

Butterfly photography captures the beauty and grace of these colorful insects. The best time to photograph butterflies is during spring and summer when they are most active. Using a macro lens between 100mm and 200mm allows you to get sharp, detailed shots without disturbing the butterflies.

When photographing butterflies, use a low ISO (100-400) to avoid noise, a small aperture (f/8-f/22) for a deep depth of field, and a fast shutter speed (1/180s or faster) to freeze motion. Focus manually or use continuous autofocus to track the butterfly’s movements. Stabilize your shots with a tripod, monopod, or tabletop tripod for low-angle shots.

Be patient and let the butterflies come to you. Move slowly to avoid scaring them away. If you can’t get close enough, zoom in and crop your images in post-processing. With these techniques, you’ll capture stunning butterfly photography.

Dragonfly

Dragonflies are beautiful and interesting insects that make great subjects for macro photography. You don’t need fancy gear to capture stunning dragonfly pictures. A tele-macro lens around 100-150mm is ideal, but a zoom lens with an extension tube can also work well.

When photographing dragonflies, it’s best to avoid autofocus and use live view instead. Zoom in on the detail you want to focus on for the sharpest results. Keep the background simple to avoid distracting from your subject.

Dragonflies are most active on sunny summer days, especially in the early morning. Be patient and quiet when approaching them so you don’t scare them away. With practice and persistence, you can capture the intricate details and beautiful colors of these magnificent creatures. To dive deeper into dragonfly photography, there are many helpful resources available here.

Snowflake

Snowflake photography captures the tiny, unique beauties that create winter landscapes. Macro photography is the perfect way to capture the details of snowflakes that are invisible to the naked eye.

To photograph snowflakes, you need a camera capable of capturing images at higher than 1:1 magnification. A mirrorless or DSLR camera with a macro lens, reversing ring, extension tubes, or macro filter works best.

Use manual focus and a shallow depth of field to separate the snowflake from the background. Keep your ISO low to avoid noise and grain. A shutter speed of 1/100 s is a good starting point. Dark backgrounds like gloves, scarves, or coats create contrast and make the snowflakes stand out. Snowflake photography is a beautiful form of macro photography that lets you capture magical winter images.

The Best Lens for Long Exposure in 2024 (Top 8 Lenses)

Christopher Bryan-Smith — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 13:48:10 +0000

To master the art of long-exposure photography, you need the best lens for long exposure. But which type of lens is best for shooting long exposures?

The lens needs to have sharp optics and a wide focal length. And it needs to match your camera system. So, our article is packed with high-quality wide-angle lenses for all the top camera brands.

The Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM is our choice as the best lens for long-exposure photography. It’s a beautiful wide-angle zoom from Canon’s superior L Series. It gives you edge-to-edge clarity, image stabilization, and the perfect aperture range for long exposure.

Our Top 3 Choices for the Best Lens for Long Exposure

Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm F/2.8

Sony FE 20-70mm F/4 G SEL2070G

What Is the Best Lens For Long Exposure?

The best lens for long exposure helps you capture stunning images. It doesn’t matter if you shoot long-exposure landscapes, cityscapes, or something more experimental. Using the right lens is key to success. That’s why we recommend the Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM.

Good optical quality is important in all types of photography. But edge-to-edge clarity is especially important when it comes to long-exposure photography.

The camera won’t always pick up imperfections when using a fast shutter speed. But imperfections are detected and magnified when the shutter is open for a long time.

We recommend wide-angle lenses for long-exposure photos. Using a lens with a short focal length, you get a broader view of the scene in front of you. And we’ve selected zoom lenses, so you have more flexibility with composition when on location.

A fast max aperture isn’t important in this discipline. Your shutter is open for seconds at a time. So, getting enough light won’t be a problem.

But you still want a decent aperture range for more exposure control. Most of our lenses have a f/4 max aperture, more than enough for long exposures.

Here’s a quick overview of all the best lenses for long exposures. We focus on each lens in more detail in the section after. And we have a bonus section at the end looking at photography equipment for long-exposure photography.

Best Canon Mirrorless Lens

Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Beautiful zoom lens with ultra-wide field of view
Sub-Wavelength Structure coating and an Air Sphere coatings on glass
Wide f/4 to f/22 aperture range
Weather-resistant for outdoor use

Best Canon DSLR Lens

Canon EF 16-35mm F/4L IS USM

Delivers wide-angle, low-light performance
Incorporates Optical Image Stabilizer
Minimizes aberrations with aspheric and Extra-Low Dispersion elements
Dust-resistant and water-resistant for robust use

Best Nikon Mirrorless Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm F/2.8

Ultra-wide zoom defies conventional limits
Versatile 17–28mm focal range covers all needs
Fixed f/2.8 aperture excels in low-light settings
Light, durable, and perfect for telling epic stories

Best Nikon DSLR Lens

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm F/4G ED VR

Ultra-wide zoom for versatile shooting
Vibration Reduction for sharper handheld shots
Nano Crystal Coat enhances image clarity
Quick switch between manual and autofocus

Best Sony Lens

Sony FE 20-70mm F/4 G SEL2070G

Ultra-wide 20-70mm zoom for varied subjects
Advanced Aspherical element to remove abberations
Fast, quiet XD Linear Motor technology
Compact design with state-of-the-art optics

Best Fujifilm Lens

Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR

Advanced optical elements for superior image quality
6-stop stabilization for clear hand-held shots
Lightweight and durable for adventure seekers
Weather-sealed for reliable outdoor use

Best Panasonic Lens

Panasonic LUMIX S Pro 16-35mm F/4

Wide-angle zoom for Lumix full-frame cameras
3 aspherical and one Ultra-High Refractive element
Manual focus clutch for better focus control
Rugged build; splashproof, dustproof, and freezeproof

Best Olympus Lens

Olympus ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II

Exceptional image quality in all conditions
Fluorine coating enhances image clarity
Compact and lightweight for easy portability
Weather-sealed design for durability

8 Best Lenses for Long-Exposure Photography

This section looks at all the best long-exposure lenses in detail. We’ve chosen wide-angle zoom lenses because they give you a wide field of view and versatility.

We’ve included lenses for Canon and Nikon, both DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Our top long-exposure lens recommendations for Sony, Fujifilm, and Olympus OM System cameras can also be found.

1. Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 14-35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) and Air Sphere Coating (ASC), fluorine coating, custom control ring, weather-resistant
Best For	Best For Canon mirrorless cameras

The RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM is the best lens for long exposure if you’re a Canon user. It’s compatible with Canon’s R-range mirrorless cameras. And it’s from Canon’s L Series, meaning it’s one of their top-tier lenses.

You can’t fault the optical quality. LensaAberrations and distortion can be a problem with wide-angle zooms. But you experience very few of either using this lens. That means you get ultra-sharp long-exposure images every time.

Picture quality is given an extra boost thanks to the special lens coatings. This lens has both SWS and ASC lens coatings. These increase light transmission and reduce ghosting and glare.

The outer elements also have a fluorine coating. This protects the glass from water, scratches, and smudges.

An f/4 maximum aperture might not seem like much, especially for an L Series lens. But that’s more than fast enough for long-exposure photography. And the range goes up to f/22, which is great for long-exposure landscapes.

Equipped with built-in optical image stabilization, you can compensate for the slower max aperture. That’s handy if you want to use the lens for other types of photography, broadening the lens’s appeal.

The custom control ring is another useful feature. You can use it to change settings such as aperture, ISO, and white balance, giving you more manual control.

The Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM is a beautiful lens for Canon mirrorless cameras. It’s a versatile wide-angle zoom for a wide range of styles. But it’s our top choice as the best lens for long-exposure photography.

2. Canon EF 16-35mm F/4L IS USM

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Full-time manual focus, 9-blade diaphragm, 2 Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements
Best For	Best For Canon DSLR cameras

Like the RF 14-35mm lens, the Canon EF 16-35mm F/4L IS USM is a brilliant choice for long exposure. But this lens is compatible with Canon DSLR cameras.

The 16-35mm focal length range is perfect for long exposures. The wide viewing angle lets you capture broad scenes. And you have flexibility with the zoom to help compose powerful shots.

Exceptional quality glass is standard in Canon L lenses, and this lens is a great example. It’s constructed of 16 elements in 12 groups. And of those 16, you have one aspherial and two ED elements. That means chromatic aberration and ghosting are practically non-existent.

With an internal focus system, the lens doesn’t expand or contract when refocusing. That is useful for long-exposure photography because you don’t have to readjust your tripod if you change the focus.

The lens also has a full-time manual focus override. So you can refocus manually whenever you need to.

The f/4 to f/22 aperture range is perfect for this type of photography. You usually use something around f/9.5 or f/11, so you have plenty of wiggle room.

Plus, Canon’s USM autofocus system is excellent. And image stabilization is always a bonus in any lens. These features aren’t much of a use for long exposures. But they make the EF 16-35mm F/4L IS USM a versatile and well-rounded camera lens.

3. Nikon Nikkor Z 17-28mm F/2.8

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 17-28 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Internal zoom, weather-resistant
Best For	Best For Nikon mirrorless cameras

If you have a Nikon mirrorless camera, the Nikkor Z 17-28mm F/2.8 is the long-exposure lens you need. As a wide-angle zoom from their ever-growing Z Series of lenses, it’s exactly what you need for pro-level long exposures.

With such a wide field of view, this lens is perfect for sweeping landscapes. The 11mm zoom range gives you more freedom with composition. But something around 24mm is the sweet spot for long-exposure photography. You get a broad scene and sharp corner-to-corner picture quality.

Thanks to the internal zoom system, the lens doesn’t change size when zooming in or out. That means once your camera is mounted on the tripod, you won’t need to rebalance it if you change the composition.

A f/2.8 max aperture is overkill for long exposures. An aperture that wide isn’t necessary. But it does give you excellent versatility. You can use it for long exposures, portraits, and product photography.

A modest level of weather resistance keeps the lens safe in bad weather. It won’t survive heavy downpours, but a bit of drizzle sea spray won’t hurt.

You can use the Nikon Nikkor Z 17-28mm F/2.8 for a wide range of photographic styles. And it should be at the top of your shopping list for long exposures.

4. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm F/4G ED VR

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features 3 aspherical elements, 2 ED elements, Nano Crystal coating
Best For	Best For Nikon DSLR cameras

We have another top-quality wide-angle lens from Nikon. But the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm F/4G ED VR is for their DSLR cameras.

This lens gives you stunning visual quality from Nikon’s premium G range. Unlike inferior wide-angle lenses, you can use this lens at each end of the focal range without experiencing distortion. That gives you even more freedom when composing your shots.

Excellent optical quality is achieved with ED glass and aspherical elements. The results are images free of chromatic aberrations and distortion.

Nikon’s built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) system gives you more low-light exposure control. You probably won’t need it when shooting long exposures. But it’s a useful feature in any lens. The same applies to the fast and reliable autofocus (AF) motor.

You have plenty to work with with an f/4 to f/22 aperture range. You’ll mostly use the narrower end of the scale. But a max f/4 aperture is useful if you want a shallow depth of field.

The AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm F/4G ED VR should be a must-have for any Nikon DSLR user. That’s especially the case if you want to master long-exposure photography.

5. Sony FE 20-70mm F/4 G

Brand	Brand Sony
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 20-70 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Advanced Aspherical (AA) element, manual aperture ring, XD (Extreme Dynamic) AF motor
Best For	Best For Sony mirrorless cameras

Sony mirrorless cameras are excellent for long exposure. But it’s best to have a lens that makes the most of the camera’s high-resolution sensor. The Sony FE 20-70mm f/4 G is that lens.

You know the picture quality is top-notch with a Sony G lens. The overall quality of the glass is excellent. But the lens also contains special AA elements to ensure aberrations are non-existent.

With a wide focal length of 20mm, it gives you the widest angle of any Sony lens for their full-frame cameras. You get an almost panoramic view that works well for long-exposure landscapes.

You also have a wide zoom range, letting you experiment with composition. And it lets you try other types of photography with this lens. It’s also a good choice for videographers.

Setting the right aperture is always important in long-exposure photography. So, many photographers will appreciate the manual aperture ring on the lens. You can change the setting without going into the camera menu. And you can turn the click sound on and off.

Sony’s high-thrust XF AF motor is fantastic. It’s fast, responsive, and quiet. You won’t often need it for this type of photography. But it’s another strength many photographers will appreciate.

As a wide-to-standard zoom lens, the Sony FE 20-70mm F/4 G stands out for its versatility. It’s a brilliant investment if you’re a Sony user. And you definitely won’t regret it if you love taking long exposures.

6. Fujifilm XF 16-80mm F/4 R OIS WR

Brand	Brand Fujifilm
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-80 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features 3 aspherical elements, manual aperture ring, weather-resistant
Best For	Best For Fujifilm cameras

The XF 16-80mm F/4 R OIS WR is the best long-exposure lens for a Fujifilm camera. It’s a high-quality wide-angle zoom lens that fits the brief perfectly.

As Fujifilm’s X Series cameras are APS-C, the effective focal length is slightly different than stated. The 16-80mm focal length equals 24-120mm on a full-frame camera. The higher end won’t be much use for long exposures. But the 24mm end is perfect.

It’s hard to find fault with the build quality. The metal construction feels solid. The barrel is packed with high-quality glass. And there’s a total of 16 elements arranged in 12 groups.

Included in those 16 are three aspherical elements and one Extra-low Dispersion (ED) aspherical lens. That means distortion is kept to an absolute minimum, resulting in images with edge-to-edge sharpness.

Old-fashioned shooters will appreciate the manual aperture ring that lets you change the aperture on the barrel. The f/4 to f/22 aperture range is ideal for long exposures.

The AF motor is super-fast and near-silent in operation. And the optical image stabilization gives you even more control over your exposure settings. You won’t be using these features for long exposures. But they are features that make it a versatile, high-performance lens.

The Fujifilm XF 16-80mm F/4 R OIS WR is your best option for long-exposure photography. It offers excellent value for money even when you buy it brand new. And it’s an investment that improves your creative photography.

7. Panasonic Lumix S Pro 16-35mm F/4

Brand	Brand Panasonic LUMIX
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Three aspherical elements, Ultra-High Refractive (UHR) index lens, focus clutch, splash-resistant
Best For	Best For Panasonic full-frame cameras

The Panasonic Pro 16-35mm F/4 is the best long-exposure lens for Lumix shooters. It’s a versatile lens for all types of photography and video production. But we think it’s the perfect choice if you love shooting long exposures.

It’s surprisingly compact for a lens of this quality, considering it contains 12 elements made from super-sharp glass. Of these, you have three aspherical elements and one UHR lens. These give you incredible light transmission, reducing distortion to a minimum.

You can safely use the lens outdoors in tough conditions with such a rugged build. It’s splash-resistant. So you can use it in light rain and by the seashore. It’s dustproof for use in super dry conditions. And it can withstand sub-zero temperatures.

Other interesting features include the speedy AF motor and manual focus clutch. The clutch lets you override the autofocus motor and use manual focus whenever needed.

Again, the Panasonic Lumix S Pro 16-35mm F/4 is also a great lens for video shooters. Panasonic makes excellent hybrid cameras. And this lens is a great option if long-exposure photography is part of a wider creative project.

8. Olympus OM System ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro II

Brand	Brand Olympus
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 12-40 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Weather-sealed, fluorine coating, Zuiko Extra-low Refraction Optical (ZERO) coating, AF clutch
Best For	Best For Olympus OM System cameras

If you use an Olympus or OM System camera, you need the right lens for long exposures. Your best option is the Olympus OM System ED 12-40mm F/2.8 Pro II.

It’s a lightweight, compact zoom lens, perfect for the compact Micro Four Thirds cameras. And the build quality is excellent. It’s one durable lens, being weather-sealed and freeze-proof. You’ll have no problem using it outdoors.

The outer lens element also has a fluorine coating to protect it against scratches and smudges. Other elements have OM System’s special ZERO coatings. This improves light transmission and prevents glare and ghosting.

A f/2.8 aperture is overkill for long-exposure photography. But it’s a huge bonus if you want to use the lens for other pursuits. It gives you a lovely shallow depth of field, which is great for portraits or food photography.

There’s a Lens Function (L-Fn) button near the lens mount. You can apply any specific function or custom setting to this button, giving you a more personalized user experience. This is a great feature if you have specific settings for capturing long exposures.

The ED 12-40mm F/2.8 Pro II is the ideal partner for your Olympus OM System camera. It’s well worth the price. It delivers fantastic results for long exposures, time-lapses, and other types of creative media.

Accessory Guide for Long-Exposure Photography

Finding the best lens for long exposure is important. But it’s only one part of the puzzle. You need a few other camera accessories to get the best long-exposure results. Here’s a quick look at the best camera accessories for long-exposure photography.

Long-Exposure Tripods

A tripod is essential for shooting long exposures. Even dropping your shutter speed down to 1/60 s requires some stabilization. So, if you’re keeping your shutter open for extended periods, you need a sturdy tripod to hold your camera.

A long-exposure tripod needs to be rugged. You’ll be shooting outside, so you need to know the tripod can handle harsh conditions. You don’t want your tripod turning to rust after one trip out.

It’s also best to ensure the tripod is strong enough for your camera and lens setup. You can see the maximum load capacity of a tripod before you buy it, so make sure your setup is well within that limit.

The Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100 Tripod is fantastic for long-exposure photographers. It’s strong enough for most camera setups, allowing for a load of 15.4 lb (7 kg). It’s rugged for outdoor use. And it has good adjustability. So you can mount it on uneven ground.

You can check out our article with the best tripods for time-lapse photography. It’s a similar discipline, and a good tripod will serve both types of photography well.

Best Tripod Head for Long Exposure

There are many tripod heads you can choose from these days. But we recommend a ball head when shooting long exposures.

Tripod ball heads are strong and stable. The tilting and panning movement is ideal for finding the perfect composition when shooting on rough terrain. You can keep the camera mounted at an angle for long periods.

The Neewer Tripod Ball Head is our top recommendation. With a load capacity of 17.6 lb (8 kg), it can hold most camera setups. It gives you a wide range of tilt and pan movement. And it has a built-in bubble level.

We have all the best tripod ball heads in this article. Or, if you don’t want a ball head, you can see all the best tripod heads by clicking the link.

Shot with a Canon EOS 5DS R. 35mm, f/13, 8 seconds, ISO 100. Anders Jilden (Unsplash)

Neutral Density Filters

Neutral density (ND) filters are a must-have for long-exposure photography. When you open your shutter for extended periods, overexposing your image is likely. Even if you’re using the narrowest aperture available, it’s easy to overexpose your image.

ND filters block light without affecting image colors or details. Your camera still renders the colors accurately. But the filter prevents some light from passing through, letting you keep your shutter open longer.

You can get different grades of ND filter. The higher the grade, the less light the filter lets through. The grades are marked by an ND number, like ND1024. An ND1024 filter is also called a 10-stop filter because it gives you 10 stops of compensation.

If you need a filter that strong, we recommend the Cokin Nuances Extreme ND filter. It’s perfect for shooting long exposures in bright daylight.

Read our full article for more of the best neutral density filters. We also have articles on the best graduated ND filters and the best variable ND filters.

Polarizing Filters

A polarizing filter is another useful accessory for long-exposure photographers. They reduce light reflections, improving light transmission through the lens. This gives you sharper detail and improves color saturation in your images.

Polarizing filters (polarizers) are popular with landscape photographers. And they are a great way to improve your long-exposure shots.

The Lee Filters LEE100 Polarizing Filter is the one you need. The optical quality is excellent. And you see a big improvement in image quality after your first shot. Check out our list of the best polarizing filters if you want more options.

Remote Shutter Release

The camera is sensitive to the slightest movement when your shutter is open for long periods. Even pressing the shutter release on the camera can ruin your image. That’s why we recommend using a remote shutter release for long exposure.

With a remote shutter release, you can open and close the shutter without touching the camera. You can also set timers and change other settings. That means there’s no risk of motion blur from touching the camera. You’re guaranteed sharper long-exposure shots.

The Pixel TW-283 E3/N3 is a great choice. It has plenty of controls, letting you work the camera remotely. And it’s reliable and affordable. If that’s not for you, check out our best camera shutter remotes article.

Conclusion: The Best Lens For Long Exposure

A wide-angle zoom makes the best lens for long exposure. And as we’ve seen, it doesn’t matter if you have a Nikon, Canon, or Sony camera. There’s a long-exposure lens for everybody.

The Canon RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM is best our top choice. It has the perfect specifications for long-exposure photography. The optical quality is exceptional. And it’s rugged for outdoor use. It’s easy to see why it takes the top spot.

Our Top 3 Choices for the Best Lens for Long Exposure

Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm F/2.8

Sony FE 20-70mm F/4 G SEL2070G

33 Creative Photo Gift Ideas for Your Friends and Family

Trevor Marshall — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 15:48:28 +0000

Finding the perfect gifts for loved ones can always be a challenge. Often, the best photo gift ideas are ones with a personal touch. So we’ll give you a hefty collection of presents for family and friends. We’ll also have a few ideas if they are avid photographers!

High-Quality Prints

Canvaspop Canvas Printing

Looking for inspiration for photo gift ideas? Check out this article featuring a variety of personalized options. Transform your favorite photos into beautiful wall art with canvas printing from our store.

Creative and Personalized Photo Gift Ideas

Let’s dive in and look at 33 creative and personalized photo gift ideas for family members and friends!

Our Top Pick

1. Canvaspop Canvas Printing

If you know of a single image that means a lot to someone, a canvas print is one of the best gifts you can give. Maybe it’s a scene from a momentous occasion or a memorable family vacation. Many sites, such as Canvaspop, produce an easy service from start to finish. You can choose from a selection of canvas styles and sizes.

2. Golden State Art, 13.6 x 19.7 Black Photo Wood Collage Frame

If a canvas print is too big, consider putting together a series of photographs in an elegant frame with a white mat. These are great gifts for people to keep family favorite photos on their desk or wall at work or a home office. Framed photos are a simple present to spruce up someone’s home.

3. SKYRHYME 10.1-Inch Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame

Instead of printing pictures and putting them in a photo album or a regular frame, why not put them in a digital one? A digital frame automatically cycles through different photo collections. They can be family photos, beautiful landscapes, or favorite memories!

4. Snapfish Photobook

A photo book by Snapfish is a perfect gift to encapsulate your favorite memories. It’s an easy way to share your favorite photos with friends. Or, you can take a collection of pictures from a memorable event and sequence them together. Photographs generally exist in the digital sphere nowadays. So printing a photo book is a fantastic personal gift. The photo collection will survive as long as it’s taken care of. Plus, there’s no need to worry about accidentally deleting images!

5. Photobox Notebook

A great way to have an everyday reminder of good times is to make a personalized notebook through Photobox. So whether someone is taking notes or writing in a personal diary, those words will always be accompanied by great pictures.

6. Custom Silhouette Art

What if someone has too many photographs in their house? Or maybe they prefer something a bit more stylized? Silhouetted art could be for you. Silhouette art is where a photograph of your choice is turned into a simple outlined image. Get these made at Not On the High Street. Select picture style, background color, product, and even a personalized tagline to go with your images.

7. Mixbook Photo Calendar

If you think having one image printed and on display isn’t enough, how about having 12 of your favorite photos? A photo calendar is a wonderful, functional way of sharing pictures. Mixbook provides an excellent photo calendar service where you have a selection of designs to choose from.

8. Custom Shutterfly Mousepad

A photo mousepad is a practical gift that can be useful for a long time. I still use my personalized photo mouse pad from my trip to Disneyland about 20 years ago! Find a great selection of mousepads at Shutterfly.

9. Personalized Photo Key Chain

A photo key chain is another present almost guaranteed to be used and seen daily. Places like Shutterfly give you plenty of options to find the perfect style for your family or friends.

10. Etsy Photo Locket

Consider a locket if you are looking for a more elegant photo gift. Loved ones can experience the magic of opening it to find an intimate family photo. You can find these photo gifts from Etsy, Amazon, your local jewelry store, or a flea market. Any photo printing shop will help you out with the miniature print. Take in the locket, and they can judge the size and shape. It is a gift someone can treasure forever!

11. Pressed Glass Photo Frame

There is something exquisite about pressed glass frames. Presenting images this way makes them look as though they are suspended in the air. This is a great way to preserve your special keepsakes if you have older black-and-white photos or Polaroids.

12. Personalized Snow Globe

Consider a personalized snow globe from Photobox if you’re looking for something small to fit on a desk. It’s like having a photo frame but with an added touch of Christmas or winter.

13. Personalized Photo Bookmark

What better than a reminder of your loved ones, every time you open your latest book? This custom-printed bookmark is a stylish and handy way of not losing your place. And it makes every time you sit down to read even more special.

14. Custom Snapfish Magnets

For people who want mementos in the kitchen, a fridge magnet is a great place to put family vacation photos or other memories. You can revisit special days as you cook. Snapfish provides an excellent service. You can choose from different design templates and styles.

15. Personalized Photo Cushion

Do you have the perfect image to tie in someone’s living room decor? Or maybe you want to give your friends a comfortable couch companion? A personalized throw pillow from Snapfish could be the answer to your problems.

16. Personalized Shutterfly Blanket

There is no better crossover between fun and functionality than a custom photo blanket from Shutterfly. There are many ways you can lay out your images. Most places will give you a template to help you with your layout. If you are confident in Photoshop, make a document the same size as your desired blanket. Your imagination is your only limit!

17. Personalized Reusable Shopping Bag

What if you want to get photo gifts for a friend or family member who is environmentally conscious? A reusable bag from Shutterfly is your answer. Ensure your friends don’t use single-use bags for shopping anymore. They can take the same custom bag out every time!

18. Personalized Suitcase

Avoid accidentally picking up someone’s suitcase by getting a personalized suitcase. Dyefor gives the option to have a full print on both sides of your bag. This is the perfect photo gift idea for the jet setters out there.

19. Custom Phone Case

A thoughtful gift to get someone is a custom phone case. It adds a personal touch to the everyday. Not only is it protective of your smartphone. But it can also be a warm reminder for the person you give it to. You can create an original design with your favorite photos, picture collages, digital collages, and more.

20. Personalized Wrapping Paper

What if you already have the perfect gift but want to add a custom touch? How about making your own wrapping paper? You can select from a range of styles and easily upload images to put in patterned templates.

21. Custom Photo Cake Icing

The ultimate party pleaser is having your own photo on your cake. This used to be an expensive choice where you would have to go to a particular baker. Now, you can order the layer of icing with a custom message online!

22. Custom Photo Bunting

Are you looking for a way to add an extra-special touch to a party set-up? Get some personalized bunting. What better way to show the different faces of the guest of honor around the whole room?

23. Personalized Mug

A classic option. Giving the gift of a nice, personalized mug goes a long way, especially with an image that warms the soul as much as a nice cup of tea.

24. Personalized Photo Coasters

Yet another classic option. Giving the gift of a nice, custom photo coaster goes a long way. This can be a perfect companion to the personalized mug above! You can even use a series of photos.

25. Custom Camera Strap

Are you looking for a present for the avid photographer? Why not add a simple addition to their kit with a custom camera strap from Etsy? There are plenty of materials to choose from and different degrees of personalization. It’s an easy, thoughtful gift without going over the top.

26. Photo Reel Viewers

Are you feeling nostalgic? Do you want to pass on memories to younger family members or the whole family? Maybe they’ll get a kick out of this great Photo Reel viewer. Photo Reel viewers are a fun way to see photographs in an intimate way. Uncommon Goods makes the viewers, along with your own customized picture reel.

27. Personalized Photo M&M's

If a friend has a sweet tooth, give them customized M&Ms! This well-known chocolate brand lets you print a small portrait onto each small piece of chocolate. Pick your colors, photos, and package.

28. Personalized Photo Hat

Are you looking for a present that adds a bit more style? How about getting a personalized hat? You can turn your image into a vector and have it embroidered. Or, if you want to stick with a photograph, they can print a patch to stick on.

29. Photo T-Shirt

There is no better way to keep a personal photograph close to your heart than by wearing it on your chest! You can find fantastic customized T-shirts on Amazon.

30. Custom Socks

Do you have someone who won’t wear pictures on a T-shirt? Custom photo socks could be the right personalized gift to give someone. You’ll find a wide selection of design templates to choose from. Some options even cover the whole sock!

31. Custom Photo Puzzle

Looking for a family activity with a personal touch? A custom photo puzzle is a unique gift idea for whole families or problem-solving friends. Putting a puzzle together is a great way for people to spend time together and enjoy your selected photo. You can select the puzzle size and how many pieces there are.

32. Custom Playing Cards

A pack of cards is common to have around for games night. Why not make it that much more fun by adding your own photos to them? PersonalizedPlayingCards.com specializes in this. They give you a choice of different card types—some are even poker-quality!

33. Custom Photo Rubik's Cube

CanvasChamp makes a great selection of fun ways to show photos. You can find this in their custom Rubik’s Cube section. Not only do you get the choice of putting your favorite photos on a Rubik’s cube, but there are also fun magic cubes that reveal your images in exciting ways.

Conclusion: Creative Photo Gift Ideas

After going through this list of photo gift ideas, you will have more than enough gift options for your loved ones. Make sure you read each website’s size and image resolution requirements. The quality of your photos will make or break the gift, so ensure you provide the highest quality possible.

High-Quality Prints

Canvaspop Canvas Printing

Canvaspop features a variety of creative, personalized gift options. Transform your favorite photos into beautiful wall art with canvas printing from our store.

10 Best DIY Photography Props in 2024 (Easy but Awesome)

Trevor Marshall — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 10:38:03 +0000

DIY photography props are great for both beginners and professional photographers. You can turn the simplest objects into creative photography subjects. There’s no limit to what you can do, so let your creativity run wild!
No matter what type of photography you’re into, it’s important to know how to make something out of nothing. This skill makes you more imaginative and lets you have more fun in any photoshoot location.

Top 3 Items to Boost Your DIY Photography Props Collection

BBTO 21 Pieces Flower Hair Clip

School Smart Railroad Boards

Krylon K05223000 Chalkboard Paint

10 Best DIY Photography Props

Here are 10 creative DIY photography props you can easily make for your photoshoots.

1. Make DIY Floral Crowns Using Flower Clips

Some flower crowns can be very expensive, don’t look that great, or fall apart easily. You can prevent this and save some money by investing in flower clips.
Ebay and Amazon are filled with affordable hair accessories. Search for flower clips and order a few that look good together.
You can then use these to make your custom flower crowns. The best thing about separate flower clips is that they can be rearranged. You can design the crown according to your preferences and the photoshoot’s theme.
You can, of course, go old-school and use fresh flowers that are in season. All you have to do is buy floral wire, shape it to fit your head, and attach flowers. Refrigerate your crown of flowers if you’re not using them immediately to keep them looking nice.

Photo by Daria Magazzu (Unsplash)

2. Create Perfectly Framed Photo Booths Using Rail Road or Foam Board

This DIY idea comes with a lot of creative freedom. It’s a great prop for weddings, baby showers, and other parties requiring lots of group photos. All your models have to do is hold the frame while you take photos of them!
All you need is a large railroad board or foam board, scissors, glue, a ruler, and decorations.

(iStock)

Cut a rectangle in the center of the foam board. Leave extra space at the bottom for words like “Bridal Shower” or “Happy Birthday.”
You can paint the board or leave it white to create a Polaroid effect. You could also cover the board with glitter, glue flowers, or draw pictures.
If you want to enhance the frame with photo booth props like mustaches and hats, you can use free printable props.

3. Let Your Photo Backdrops Come to Life Using Chalk

Another creative way to enhance a background is to use chalkboard paint or chalk. You can use this on a chalkboard, chalkboard wall sticker, black wall, or the ground. Chalk illustrations are versatile. They can be used in a variety of photoshoots.
If you want something conceptual, you can draw on a chalkboard or even hire an artist. If you want something personal and fun, you can ask your subject to draw a few things themselves.
The second option is ideal for children’s photography. It helps prevent boredom and make your subjects feel important in the process.

Photo by Daniele Jesse Bowser (Unsplash)

4. Enhance Newborn Photos With DIY Rainbows and Clouds

This is an easy way to take creative photos of newborn babies and children. Using non-toxic paint, paint a rainbow on a roll of craft paper or any other material appropriate for the photoshoot.
You can use a white fluffy blanket that resembles a cloud. Or you can fill a large basket with pillow stuffing. Place your subject gently on the cotton cloud in the middle or on either side of the rainbow.
You can take this further by painting birds, clouds, stars, and landscapes on the backdrop to create a more wholesome composition.

(Adobe Stock)

5. Create Custom Backgrounds Using Tape and Colored Paper

Are the walls in your home too boring for simple portraits? Invest in large sheets of colored poster boards and tape them to a wall. You can then light your subject using artificial or natural light.
Ensure the colored paper is large enough to take wide photos and close-ups. You can use washi tape instead of regular tape to avoid damaging the wall.
If you want your background to look even more striking, use sheets of wallpaper with different designs.

(iStock)

6. Turn a Simple Bath Into a Milky Floral Photoshoot

For this DIY photography prop, you need a bathtub, access to natural light, lots of water, milk, and flowers. The closer the bathtub is to a large window, the better your photos will look.
To prevent wasting a lot of milk, you can use milk powder. Make sure the water is hot so that the powder can dissolve and not form chunks in the bathtub. The less you use, the more translucent the effect will be.
Once everything is ready, put a few flowers into the bath to intensify the dreamy effect. Milk baths are an easy way to take unique photos of children, pregnant women, and couples.

7. Create Fluffy DIY Clouds to Take Surreal Portrait Photos

Once again, fluffy clouds are one of the best DIY photography props you can make in minutes. They’re perfect for fun children and family photography. All you need is cotton and glue.
Using the pillow stuffing, create realistic-looking clouds of different shapes and sizes. You can glue them to a round base, like a balloon, if you want them to stay in place. Glue the pieces together.
Once everything is ready, hang the clouds from a ceiling, stick them to a blue backdrop, or have your models hold them.

(Adobe Stock)

8. Turn Light Bulbs Into Flower Pots to Enhance Backgrounds

Those old incandescent lightbulbs we’re trying not to use anymore can be turned into delicate works of art. These light bulb terrariums are perfect for house decorations and photoshoots.
Even when you’re done taking photos, you can hang them in your home.

Photo by Jagoda Kondratiuk (Unsplash)

First, empty a light bulb. Ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to avoid harmful chemicals or shards of glass. After that, glue a few strings to the base of the light bulbs and pour some water into them.
Place a few flowers into your new vases and hang them from a ceiling or a high platform. These are perfect for portrait and family photos. For the best results, hang them in front of a white wall. This will create a bright and dreamy atmosphere.

9. Decorate Simple Balloons with Fabric for a Chic DIY Prop

There’s no doubt that balloons make colorful and striking photo accessories. To make your photoshoot as unusual as possible, cover the balloons in colored fabric.
To keep everything in place, tape the fabric to the base of the balloon. You can also use string if the tape stands out too much. This will work best on black or white balloons. Other balloon colors might clash with the fabric.
You can use these DIY props in all types of portrait photography, including birthday and fashion shoots.

Photo by Hipster Mum (Unsplash)

10. Use Paper Bunting to Decorate Simple Backgrounds and Foregrounds

Bunting is the perfect photography decoration. You can use it as a creative foreground or background to enhance simple photos. The easiest way to make bunting is to use colored paper, glue or tape, scissors, and string.
Cut out triangles like those below and attach them to a long line of string using glue or tape. And you’re done! If you want something more delicate, use colored fabric or cloth with designs.

Photo by Lanty (Unsplash)

Conclusion: Best DIY Photography Props

Using simple items in your home, you can transform your photos and portraits into creative masterpieces. These DIY skills will help you find potential for photo props in simple places and get creative no matter where you are.
Are you looking for more great DIY ideas? Check out our post about how to make a DIY wood backdrop for photos next! Or take a look at our Creative Portrait Concepts eBook that delves into more DIY photography props.

25 Awe-Inspiring Examples of Abstract Photography

Trevor Marshall — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 11:26:59 +0000

Abstract photography expresses the indescribable. There’s a focus on shape, form, color, texture, and light. All of these things are important in most photographs. But with abstract photography, they are not means to an end. They are the end itself. This means that the images often perplex and mesmerize in equal measure.

25 Beautiful Examples of Abstract Photography to Inspire You

One of the beauties of digital photography is that you can experiment at no cost. In the past, you might hesitate to “waste” a negative and print an abstract photo that doesn’t “work.” But now we can experiment and immediately see if it works.
So, here are some super-cool abstract photos to inspire you to create your own!

1. Focus on Shape

The muted colors of this wall create an organic tone. With the sharp angles of the structure, it creates an intricate juxtaposition effect.
The viewer has no way of knowing what the structure is. But it doesn’t matter. The image is pleasing in itself. The photographer isolated these components to produce an aesthetic result.

2. Line

Line is a fundamental part of composition in photography. It’s a great way to add depth to your photographs. The lines interrupt the gradual change in the light, providing contrast and interest.
When we “read” an image, our eyes naturally follow lines. We can use this to our advantage in abstract photos, leading the viewer on a journey across the page.

3. Focus On Bright Colors

Turn your lens to focus on bright colors. This is a fun way to create dynamic abstract photography. You’ll find bright colors in all sorts of places, from market stalls to nature.

4. Nature

The complexity of organic life is both astounding and diverse. That’s why it makes such a good subject matter for abstract photography.
The lines of these trees reaching up to the sky draw the viewer’s eye to the center of the frame.

5. Texture

How do you think this image feels to the touch? Soft? Rough?
Often, abstract photography is about playing with our senses. And in this way, you bring a photograph to life.
You add a new dimension to a photograph through the idea of how an abstract subject could or would feel.

6. Repetition

The points meet, the dots line up, and the shapes transform. There’s something innately satisfying about viewing a well-executed pattern.
Repetition and patterns in photography can be used to fill a frame with patterns. Or you can use it to highlight irregularities. In this photo, the shapes decorate the image perfectly.
Although you can’t define the source, the effect is one of satisfaction and intrigue.

7. Camera Movement

Camera shake can be the bane of many photographers’ existence. But the deliberate introduction of movement into an image can create intriguing, painterly effects.
Abstract photography embraces experimentation. Don’t be weighed down by the need to take the “perfect” image.
Try introducing some movement into your images. You can do this by panning or sweeping your camera up and down during a long exposure.

8. Getting Close

When we encounter something of interest, our natural instinct is to physically move closer for a better look. Photography is often the same.
The closer you get, the more detail you reveal. Getting in for a closer shot also generates a sense of importance or intimacy in a photograph.

9. Industrial Subjects

Industrial sites are great for taking abstract photography. The variety of colors, shapes, and textures means that, for an abstract enthusiast, industrial sites are heaven on earth.
But industrial sites can be dangerous. And it’s important you get permission before you enter industrial premises. For more on urban exploration, check out our complete guide to urbex.
Other sites that are easier to access for industrial photography include train museums, parking lots, historic sites, and repurposed buildings.

10. Architecture

Architecture is a popular subject for abstract photography.
One of the great things about architectural photography is that it’s easily accessible. And it provides photographers the opportunity to explore form and shape in abstraction.

11. Soft Color

We had a look at using bright colors above. But soft colors lend their own unique feel to an abstract photograph.
Softer colors tend to warm or cool a photograph without overpowering it, giving the subject room to breathe.
The muted palette in this image accentuates the flowing lines of the subject, giving it the effect of a veil.
They may not jump out at you the same way brighter colors do. But soft hues are well worth incorporating into your abstract photography.

12. Black and White

Color photography is beautiful, but sometimes it can be a distraction. Yes, it’s the mainstream of modern photography. But many photographers still choose to shoot or process in black and white.
By removing color, we can cut down on intrusions. Viewers won’t get distracted by the warmth that reds provide or the cold feel of blues.
A black-and-white color scheme also illuminates the subtle tonal differences within the image. This emphasizes form and shape.

13. Water

Water is both a reflective and a changeable surface. You can use it to reinforce subject matter through reflection. Or you can change it up completely with movement.
In this image, the lines reflected in the water’s surface are disrupted. They take on the form of waves, creating an image with an otherworldly atmosphere.

14. Minimalism

Minimalism in visual arts means stripping back the form to geometric abstraction. It’s no wonder minimalist and abstract photography often overlap.
Minimalism is about what you leave out of an image rather than what you keep in. Seek out color, strong shapes, and bold lines. Use these to create an effective minimalist abstract photograph like the one below.

15. Light Trails

All photography relies on light. But abstract photography means you can experiment with the concept more than usual.
You can make light trails with long exposure and a bright light source. Make use of painterly gestures to create a photograph, and then you’re literally painting with light!

16. Star Trails

This long exposure was taken to reveal these star trails and record each star’s movement.
The resulting image is abstract, speaking to the nature of time and space itself.

17. Reflective Surfaces

Using reflective surfaces is a simple way to get into abstract photography. Each movement can create a whole new scene to photograph.
Photographing reflective surfaces doesn’t mean you have to stick to mirrors, either. Experiment with reflective textures like foil or puddles to create an interesting perspective.

18. Macro

Macro photography is becoming more and more accessible. From insects to flowers to jewelry, close-up photography can make the details in a subject shine.
Go even closer, and you get fantastic abstract images. These are complex and eye-catching. And they reveal details the naked eye can barely see.

19. Urban

The urban landscape is evolving. Its colors, forms, textures, light, and life form fascinating photographic opportunities.
But urban landscape photography doesn’t have to be about city skylines and streetscapes.
Photographing the details that make up the urban environment documents its history. And it creates insightful photographic images.

20. Bokeh

Bokeh is a great way to create abstract, creative images. The term bokeh comes from the Japanese word “boke,” which means “haze” or “blur.”
If you want to create a bokeh effect like the one in this image, check out our full guide on how to create a bokeh effect.

21. High-Key

Photography and light go hand in hand, but high-key images take it one step further. High-key images create a clean, airy atmosphere.
Some darker tones are necessary for an image to be discernible. But high-key photographers seek to whittle down a subject to its bare bones. This floods it with light and eliminates as much shadow as possible.

22. Low-Key

On the opposite end of the scale, low-key photographs are dark and dramatic. They convey an atmosphere of tension or intimacy.
Low-key images are made up of shadows with sparse highlights and high contrast.
They enhance form by erasing superfluous detail. This gives the reader a sense of unease by appealing to our innate instincts.

23. Look Up

It’s easy to get into the habit of looking straight ahead and missing what’s going on above us.
Tilt your head back and assess the surroundings. This can provide a unique and abstract perspective. Especially because most people don’t look up!

24. Look Down

Have you ever looked out of a plane window and wondered about the scene below? Aerial shots make for fascinating abstract landscape photography.
When taken from a high vantage point, the scene below becomes flattened. This transforms it into a canvas of abstract shape and color.
Grab a drone with a camera, and you’ll be able to achieve some really interesting results.

25. Use a Slow Shutter Speed

Light trails, blurred motion, and movement collapsed into a single image. It can reflect the life force of a subject. And the idea that motion can be art is an abstract concept in itself.
Shooting with a slow shutter speed uses the camera as a tool. It creates abstract photography that reveals worlds that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.

Conclusion

Abstract photography puts emphasis on color, light, shadow, texture, shape, and form. The images don’t have an immediate association with an object. But they evoke feelings and intrigue viewers.
This draws a viewer in and allows them to explore and question the very nature of photography.
Pick one of these ideas and start shooting. These examples of abstract photography will take you out of your comfort zone. They’ll also help you hone your skills.
Check out our Wow Factor Photography course to improve your abstract photography skillset!

Best Photo Album Books 2024 (Buy Online)

Trevor Marshall — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 09:13:40 +0000

Finding the best photo album for your photos isn’t always easy. With all the different colors and sizes, there are so many to choose from. But having photos in an album makes it easier to share and look at. And that’s the whole point, isn’t it? Photos should be seen, not just piled up in a cupboard.

Our top pick is this Rustic Town leather cover photo album. It is big, stylish, and will protect your prized photos.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Photo Album

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

What Is the Best Photo Album?

There are tons of different types of photo albums. You can choose between simple “magnetic” albums where a flap of clinging plastic holds the photos in place. Or your album can have plastic pockets to simply slip the pictures in. Finally, you can use glue or corners to fix photos, tickets, or postcards into a “scrapbook” style album. The best photo album is the one that works for you.

Before we look at the albums we’ve chosen, here’s a summary of them all.

Our Top Pick

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Handcrafted genuine leather, wrap closure
High quality acid-free cotton rag paper
Holds 200 4 x 6-inch or 5 x 7-inch photos
Versatile use for weddings, travel, and scrapbooking

Best Loose-Leaf Design

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Handcrafted, stylish leather design
Gold-embossed accents, acid-free vellum
Holds 120 4 x 6-inch or 4 x 7-inch photos
Lifetime guarantee, assembled in Maine

Best Square Album

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Combines analog charm with modern design
Holds 200 photos, easy assembly
Archival-grade, acid-free art paper
Customizable 3 x 3-inch cover window

Best Pocket album

200-Pocket Euro Bonded Leather Photo Album 4×6 Prints

Deluxe raised rounded spine design
Holds 200 photos with memo area
Bidirectional pages for versatility
Archival-quality paper is acid and PVC-free

Best Post-and-Screw Album

Pioneer X-Pando Magnetic Album, Hunter Green

Self-adhesive clear plastic overlays
Holds popular print sizes, including panoramics
Stainless steel screw-post binding for unlimited refills
Deluxe, washable faux leather padded cover

Best Large-Format Album

Large Leather DIY Photo Album

High-quality durable PU leather cover
Holds various sizes of photos and tickets
Dust-free, waterproof preservation
Perfect gift for special occasions

Best Budget Album

Pretty in Pink: KZ-46 Mini Frame Photo Album

Padded cover with front frame
Holds 24 4 x 6-inch photos
Clear pockets, black mesh background
Uses acid and PVC-free paper

Best Display-Book Album

2-Pack Black Flexible Photo Albums, Holds 48 6×4 Photos

Sturdy, elegant design for durability
Archival-quality sleeves protect photos
Compact size for easy portability
2-pack album set for extra storage

Best Wedding Album

Elegant Wedding Album – 12″ Square, 2 Pockets, Gift

Elegant design for timeless memories
High-quality paper fits various photo sizes
Over 800 adhesive tabs included
Convenient storage pockets for mementos

Best Magnetic Album

RECUTMS Self Adhesive Photo Album

Spacious layout for various photo sizes
Quality self-adhesive pages preserve memories
Stylish PU leather cover with photo window
Perfect gift for special occasions

The Best Photo Albums in More Detail

Now let’s look at what each of our recommendations has to offer.

1. Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Brand	Brand RUSTIC TOWN
Size	Size 12 x 8.7 inches (30.5 x 22 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Scrapbook
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.7 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Acid-free cotton rag pages with interleaves
Best For	Best For Storing a mixture of sizes and items with style

This Rustic Town leather photo album will look great on your shelves or coffee table. It has an Indiana Jones vibe about it. The cover is held closed by a flap and leather strap. I confess this is a little bit of a triumph of style over function. But this album is for style-conscious people.

There’s nothing quite like leather photo albums for looking classy. And the leather is soft and supple and will only improve with age.

The pages are made from acid-free cotton rag. There is a patterned, semi-transparent interleaf between all the pages. You’ll need glue or adhesive photo corners to add your photos. But you can mix and match sizes, labels, and other media to the pages.

For stylish flexibility, the Rustic Town photo album is a great choice. It comes nicely nestled in a presentation and storage box. Its success as a photo album will depend on the quality of the glue or photo corners that you use.

2. Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75 x 10.5

Brand	Brand Gallery Leather
Size	Size 11.75 x 10.5 inches (29.9 x 26.7 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Bonded leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Pocket, loose-leaf
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Mix and match various inserts, lifetime guarantee
Best For	Best For Scrapbooking and storing mixed media

This Gallery Leather photo album is a good choice if you’re looking for a big leather album. It’s not as quaint as the Rustic Town album, but it has some great features. It is a loose-leaf design, which means you can mix and match the inserts to your photos.

You can add inserts for photos of three different sizes. They are 4 x 7 inches (10 x 17.7 cm), 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.7 cm), and 10 x 8 inches (25.4 x 20.3 cm). You can also choose black scrapbooking inserts.

You can also add photo notes in the 4 x 6-inch leaves. They come on a sheet, making it easier to write or print on than if they are in the album.

The inserts are free from PVC and acid. Like all Gallery Leather products, the whole photo album carries a lifetime guarantee. The ability to mix and match the contents is a real benefit to this album.

3. Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Brand	Brand Kolo
Size	Size 8.25 x 8.75 inches (20.95 x 22.23 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Cloth-covered board
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features 12 different colors, quality paper with room for notes
Best For	Best For Hard-wearing storage of photos

One neat feature of the Kolo Hudson is the archival acid-free paper. Even though it has pocket-style photo storage, the pockets are fixed to high-quality paper. This means you can write any notes or memories right next to the photo.

A three-inch square window on the front can be used for a cover picture. The book cloth cover material is durable and should last a long time. The album comes in 12 different colors as well as black leather. There is also a 3up version with space for 300 4 x 6-inch (10 x 15 cm) photos.

Kolo says that the Hudson 2up is the best-selling premium album in the US. And it’s easy to see why, as it offers incredible quality and ease of use.

4. 200-Pocket Euro Bonded Leather Photo Album 4x6 Prints

Brand	Brand Pioneer Photo Albums
Size	Size 9.25 x 9.25 inches (23.5 x 23.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Bonded leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Low-cost option, leaves are free of acid, lignin, and PVC
Best For	Best For Anyone needing good-looking storage at a decent price

This Pioneer Photo Album solves a common headache. One problem with slip-in leaves for photo albums is that you can normally only insert photos in one orientation. So you have to rotate the whole album to see any photo that’s oriented otherwise.

Pioneer Photo Albums has overcome this problem with a patented slip-in page that accepts prints in either format. At least for the standard 6 x 4-inch picture size.

Alongside the pockets is a “memo section” where you can write details of the photograph. But some users have warned that the ink can smudge easily. So you have to be careful with your pen choice.

The leaves themselves are free from acid, lignin, and PVC. This should ensure a long life for your photos.

The cover is bonded leather. It’s not as fancy as full-grain leather, but it does add a touch of luxury at a more affordable price. At this price, the Pioneer is an affordable solution for collecting your photos with a touch of style.

5. Pioneer X-Pando Magnetic Album, Hunter Green

Brand	Brand Pioneer Photo Albums
Size	Size 12 x 12.7 inches (31 x 32.4 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Faux leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Magnetic
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 11.4 x 11.75 inches (28.9 x 29.8 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Post-and-screw page fixing for versatility
Best For	Best For Anyone looking to simply fix multiple sizes of photos

The Pioneer Photo Albums X-Pando offers a flexible-format album with so-called magnetic leaves. This is the commonly used term for a card leaf with a plastic overlay. This overlay adheres to the card stock but not the photo.

The inserts are free of acid, lignin, and PVC and are held in place with posts and screws. This means you can add extra pages as and when you wish. The large, almost-square format accommodates everything up to 8 x 10-inch prints.

The free-form possibilities mean you can add concert tickets, postcards, notes, or anything flat to the pages. The Pioneer Photo Albums X-Pando is a great choice for holidays or family celebrations.

6. Large Leather DIY Photo Album

Brand	Brand Zoview
Size	Size 13 x 13.2 inches (33 x 33.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Faux leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Magnetic
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 12.4 x 12.8 inches (31.5 x 32.5 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Post-and-screw page fixing, elegant decorative stitching
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a good-looking but reasonably priced album

This Zoview Album is our last large-scale album. The Zoview is another magnetic album with acid-free leaves. And the plastic covers should protect your photos even if you spill liquid on them.

The photo album looks the part. Although it’s only faux leather, it’s nicely stitched to give it a classy look.

The leaves are big enough to hold two 4 x 6-inch or even 5 x 7-inch prints. Like other magnetic pages, you’re not limited to a uniform size or even just to photos. If you run out of space, a simple post-and-screw system allows you to add new pages.

The Zoview provides good-looking storage at a lower price than a premium album. Its flexibility and expandability make it a good choice.

7. Pretty in Pink: KZ-46 Mini Frame Photo Album

Brand	Brand Pioneer Photo Albums
Size	Size 4.88 x 6.5 inches (13.4 x 16.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Plastic
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Cheap and fun photo storage, easily portable
Best For	Best For Taking your photos to show family and friends

This Pioneer Pretty in Pink album is small and cheap. So far, the cheapest photo album we’ve seen was under $20. But if even that’s more than you want to spend, then this Pioneer photo album might suit you. It is smaller in size and capacity. But with its bright pink cover, it’s larger in attitude.

This is an album simply designed for convenience and compactness. The pockets have no memo space, and will only accept the standard 4 x 6-inch photos in one orientation. But it’s clearly intended for easy portability. And there is a small frame on the front to showcase a cover photo.

Despite this, the Pioneer Mini Album’s pockets are free from acid, lignin, and PVC. So your photos are protected from premature aging better than other budget photo albums.

8. 2-Pack Black Flexible Photo Albums, Holds 48 4 x 6 Photos

Brand	Brand Dunwell
Size	Size 5.3 x 7.4 inches (13.5 x 18.8 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Flexible plastic
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Glare-free and non-cling pockets
Best For	Best For Quickly and easily storing your 4 x 6-inch photos

This Dunwell photo album is most useful for quickly storing and displaying your favorite photos. If you have a lot of photos to archive, it can be helpful just to get them in an album. Fancy labels and annotations have their place. But sometimes life is too short.

It costs less than $10 for a two-pack of these Dunwell photo albums. But you still get non-cling pockets that are anti-glare and acid-free. That means that you can quickly and easily get the photos safely stored and ready to view. It makes for good photo storage before moving the best ones into something nicer.

9. Elegant Wedding Album - 12 inch

Brand	Brand Your Perfect Day
Size	Size 12.5 x 12.5 inches (31.8 x 31.8 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Scrapbook
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.7 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Luxurious leather cover, comes complete with mounts
Best For	Best For Anyone who wants a beautiful memento of their special day

The Your Perfect Day Wedding Album wears its intent on its (plush leather) sleeve. Even when it looked like printed photos were dying, wedding photos refused to lie down.

Wedding photo albums are as much a part of the big day as the bouquet. And Your Perfect Day’s wedding album has a luxuriously soft leather cover. This gives it a sense of occasion that befits the memories it holds.

The leaves are plain with a semi-opaque protective page between the pages. The album comes complete with 800 photo mounts to fix your photos. The album is big enough to allow a combination of photo sizes and orientations.

It’s a wedding photo album, so it’s important that you can fit in those bigger photos. You can even include some Polaroids if your guests have been taking them. It also has room for service orders and other mementos inside the back cover.

Some people have even used it as a guestbook on the big day, adding photos and mementos later. This Your Perfect Day Wedding Album is a flexible solution to giving your wedding photos a touch of class while keeping them safe. It’s an album you will return to time and again.

10. RECUTMS Self Adhesive Photo Album

Brand	Brand RECUTMS
Size	Size 13.6 x 13.2 inches (34.5 x 33.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Faux leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Magnetic
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 12.5 x 11 inches (31.8 x 27.9 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Magnetic leaves for flexible arrangements, comes in 12 different colors
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a wedding album that makes a bold statement

This RECUTMS wedding album also allows you to use a mixture of photo sizes. But because it’s magnetic, you don’t need to use glue or sticky pads. It also means you can change your mind (and your photo layout).

The photo album protects your photos with pages that are free of lignin, PVC, and acid. The faux leather cover is available in 12 different colors and is buttoned for a classic look. There is a front cover window to make the album more personal.

This RECUTMS photo album is great for a wedding album. It’s got beautiful colors and an elegant finish. And it’s perfect if you want versatile formatting options and no photo corners.

What to Look For in the Best Photo Albums

There are some important questions to ask yourself before choosing your album. Here are some thoughts to help you.

What Purpose Do You Want Your Album to Serve?

You don’t want a leather-bound monster to cart around with you to show your friends photos at the coffee shop. But you don’t want to throw your wedding photos in a dollar store plastic 4 x 6-inch photo wallet. So think about the purpose of each photo album when you choose it.

The best photo albums will display your photos well. But these are your own photos, so pick the best way to show them off.

What’s the Best Way to Stick Your Photos in Your Album?

It’s stating the obvious, but you have to stick your photos in your photo album somehow. Years ago, magnetic albums were cheap nightmares. They lost their stickiness and shed your photos like a Husky sheds hair in the spring. Thankfully, these have improved over the years. They’re certainly better now than the cheap ones of the past.

They’re made of a rigid board and a clear sheet of plastic that you place your photos between. You peel the plastic back, then place your photos and cover them. The plastic adheres to the pages but not the photos.

The benefit is that it’s not as fiddly as using glues or mounts. And it allows you to include other flat objects like tickets or postcards. You must remember to leave enough margin around the photos to give the plastic something to stick to.

Pocket photo albums have plastic sleeves with pockets for you to slip the photos into. The advantage is that it is quick and easy. On the downside, you are restricted to the photo size chosen by the manufacturer.

Scrapbook-style albums provide you with a blank canvas, so to speak. You can choose to stick whatever you want, wherever you want it. The advantage is that you can be very creative. You can place the photos however you want.

If you can draw or write beautifully, you can annotate or illustrate your pages. Like a magnetic album, you can add other elements like place cards from your wedding. The disadvantage is that your photo mounts, glue, or sticky pads have to be good. Otherwise, the photos can come loose.

What Else Should I Consider?

Perhaps the most important is the protection the album gives. I have been careful to choose albums that don’t include chemicals or substances that will harm your photos.

Acid is frequently used in paper production and can damage photos over time. Lignin, a natural part of paper pulp, is what causes it to yellow with age. This is also undesirable in your photo albums. It’s best to look for photo albums with pages that are free from PVC, acid, and lignan.

Conclusion: What Is the Best Photo Album?

There is such a wide range of purposes for a photo album. From the obvious wedding day to a carefully curated record of a holiday, our top pick is the Rustic Town leather photo album. We love its quality look. And as it gets older and more worn, it will look better and better. It’s big enough for most purposes and small enough to be practical.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Photo Album

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album