Fine art photography is a style of photography created purely for its aesthetic qualities. Fine art photographers create work that goes far beyond what is in front of them. Instead of merely capturing an image that’s right in front of them, they use photography to further their conceptual ideas, interests, and goals.
In this article, we’ll explain what fine art photography really means, how it differs from other photography styles, tips for creating fine art, and how to become a professional fine art photographer.
Unlike commercial photography or photojournalism, fine art photography is an artist’s pursuit of a certain concept that isn’t influenced by external factors.
Otherwise known as photography art, fine art photography is created in line with an artist’s vision. They use photography as their medium to express an idea, emotion, or message unique to them. They do it solely for the sake of self-expression rather than for a commercial purpose. However, you will find fine art work displayed in art galleries, museums, and some businesses.
Fine art photography allows artists to explore ideas and communicate through portraits, landscapes, abstract images, or still lifes.
When creating their work, fine art photographers will consider numerous artistic factors such as space, line, color, balance, depth, form, light, and texture. It is up to the artist to convey their creative vision through the camera.
Great fine art photography is original, compelling, and evokes an emotion in its observers.
Commercial photography is created with the purpose of generating sales. Photojournalism is used to capture the truth of what’s being photographed in order to document a specific subject matter.
Fine art photography, on the other hand, is all about creating and pursuing a special concept and capturing that through the photography.
This type of photography uses the same principles and elements as other classical fine art forms like art sculpture, sketching, and painting. While it may be present in mixed media, fine art photography is generally not done for commercial purposes but rather as an outlet for artists.
Photography is created every day just through our phones. Everybody, every day, is making art in some way or another. What sets a fine artist photographer apart from the everyday photographer is their unwavering commitment to bringing a concept to life through photography rather than simply capturing what’s there in front of them.
Fine art photography can be created using either traditional or digital techniques, digital or analog cameras. Some photographers use post-production editing to achieve their desired result, while others alter their images in a darkroom.
Today, it’s common for modern artists to use digital applications like Photoshop to edit their work and achieve the look they seek. However, there are a select few who prefer to keep things traditional. There is no right or wrong way. It’s simply down to the artist’s personal preference.
Fine art photographers can also shoot their photos outdoors or in a studio, depending on their concept. It is important to remember that every artist has their own style, method, and concept, which is why techniques differ according to the artist.
Are you interested in creating fine art photography? Here are some tips to give it a try.
Are you interested in pursuing a career as a fine art photographer? Many photographers earn a bachelor’s degree in fine arts prior to pursuing this role in order to help improve their skills and employment prospects. However, it is not necessary for fine art photographers to undertake this education. While it can enhance your technical competence and progress your stylistic development, these are all things you can learn with simple practice.
A great way to get into the profession is to network with other fine art photographers as well as people who work at art galleries, museums, and businesses.
Whether you’re interested in pursuing fine art photography as a hobby or a profession, the main quality required to succeed is a strong visual concept. Fine art photography differs quite a lot from other photography types as it is driven by the artist’s personal ideas, interests, and goals. There is no better time than now to explore your passions.
You can also buy fine art photography at physical and online art galleries. Many art collectors enjoy displaying photographic art, while others simply invest in intriguing pieces with the intention of turning around a profit on the piece.
If you’re interested in learning more about this topic, check out our podcast episode where we discuss Fine Art Photography with an expert.
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