How to Create Minimalist Landscape Photography

by Andrew Smith October 25, 2017

I have been a huge fan of simple, well constructed, minimalist photography for a long time. As a graphic designer I lean towards this style because it connects well with other design elements. It creates the opportunity where typography and imagery can fuse nicely together, rather than fighting. I wanted to share a few key things I've learnt about how to get started shooting minimal landscape photography.

1. The first rule is, 'simple is great as long as its not boring'. I always look for a little bit of drama to hold the image together. I think you always need a focal point to the composition, or it can fall flat
2. I look for ways to frame the scene that removes clutter, I remove anything that doesn't add something to the overall image
3. I find ways to simplify the colour range seen in the image and aim for a minimal palette. I also consider black and white editing as a possible solution for simplifying the composition
4. I always make sure my gear bag has a longer lens, this narrows the viewing angle and can help simplify the composition
5. I look for clear space in the environment to use as a canvas. This could be anything from a patch of clear sky to a mass of smooth water or a simple textured wall. Once I have this I look for ways to add something to it - This could be a person, animal, boat, or tree, it helps create a focal point
6. I will often shoot using a tripod and low ISO such as 100 or 200. This allows me maximum detail and smooth image rendering when Im editing the final image in Adobe Lightroom
7. I look for simple visual pathways in an image to help lead your eye too the focal point
8. I’m very patient, I will often set up a scene and then wait for something to arrive! Examples include setting up a simple street scene, then wait for someone to walk into the frame, or a graphic beach landscape where a flock of birds or cloud formation passes over head.
          

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