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02/07/2009 12:10:56 PM · #1 |
I need to take some abstract photos sometime soon but I don't have a macro lens so it'll probably be more difficult. Anyone know how to take abstract stuff with a 70-200 or 18-55 lenses? |
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02/07/2009 12:23:09 PM · #2 |
"Abstract photos" is a bit of an abstract description -- can you be more specific about what kinds of images you want, or what they'll be used for?
Zooming-in with a telephoto lens, using odd angles, blurring, and color-shifting are all ways to make an ordinary subject into an abstract. For example, my entry into the "Tree" challenge (see the comments to see how others "saw" this) ...
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02/07/2009 12:26:50 PM · #3 |
Here are a few that I took with my kit zoom lens (no macro capabilities)...
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02/07/2009 01:17:35 PM · #4 |
It's kind of a matter of looking at shapes and patterns, instead of the subject. Abstract rarely do well in challenges, but I enjoy them.
Blurry,out of focus light on a police car, with heavy gaussian blur applied
Taillights reflected in a wet road
Bubbles in shallow water on a concrete dam
Over processed reflection

Message edited by author 2009-02-07 13:18:03. |
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02/07/2009 03:54:27 PM · #5 |
Abstract doesn't mean macro so the two lenses you have will suffice.
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02/07/2009 04:43:26 PM · #6 |
I like doing motion abstracts. Work with low enough light to get at least a couple of seconds exposure time, then move the camera during the exposure. Like, spinning slowly, panning it, in and out, whatever. I find it fun experimenting with different times, motions, etc. It's about the color, form, and motion of the image. Here are some examples from my port-
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02/07/2009 05:55:00 PM · #7 |
Camera tossing can result in some neat abstracts. Set the self timer and just before the pic, toss the camera in the air, giving it a spin.
You probably don't want to do it with your SLR, though. |
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02/07/2009 06:01:12 PM · #8 |
Originally posted by yospiff: Camera tossing can result in some neat abstracts. Set the self timer and just before the pic, toss the camera in the air, giving it a spin.
You probably don't want to do it with your SLR, though. |
Along the same line as that, you can hold the strap and spin it around. |
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