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Education & Training – Abstract Photography with Mike Whalen
Program
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The sources could be either naturally occurring or man-made, and of any size. Frequently, small areas of larger physical objects can make interesting abstracts. The images could be found as-is, staged or generated in-camera. They could also be further altered within a computer via post-processing to produce even more dramatic results.
The scope of abstract photography is quite broad and definitions may vary depending on who you talk to or what you read. To add even more confusion, images could be totally abstract – having no connection to physical reality, or partially abstract – by mixing both physical and abstract elements together in the same photo.
This presentation will show a broad variety of both abstract and semi-abstract images, and in many cases, how they were created will be described. All images are photographs or derived from photographs.
Bio
As a teen, Mike learned a few basic photo tips from his father, an artist and photographer. He dabbled with film cameras in the 80’s and 90’s, and after that, played with several digital point-and-shoots. However, his interest became more passionate after purchasing a basic DSLR in 2006.
Mike joined NVPS in 2009 after learning about the club from fellow member, Willa Friedman. He held board positions from 2010 to the present, including President in 2013. He received several distinguished service awards and multiple competition awards thru the years including image of the year.
Before COVID, Mike volunteered weekly as a pet photographer for the Fairfax County Animal Shelter and, and as an event photographer for charitable organization’s such as: The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition and The Epilepsy Foundation of America.
Mike says that joining NVPS was a significant step in furthering his passion for photography.
Examples of Abstract Images
References
Below is a small sampling of online articles and galleries showing abstract photography. The NVACC Gallery shows abstract photography from the last 10 years of exhibits at the Joseph Miller Center. Quite a few images are from current and former NVPS members.
Tips on Creating Abstract Photography
- What is Abstract Photography
- Abstract Photography for Beginners: 9 Tips for Capturing Stunning Abstract Images
- 35 Abstract Photography Tips and Ideas
- NVACC Gallery of Abstract Photography Exhibits (Joseph Miller Center for the Photographic Arts)
- Amie Tannenbaum – Natural Light Photography
- Examples of Abstract Images #1 (photo.net)
- Examples of Abstract Images #2 (Google)