The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak. — Hans Hofman
Our photo challenge this week is from guest host is Mr. Philo of the Philosophy Through Photography. In his post he wrote, “I considered selecting simplicity since the modern world is so stressful and chaotic that we are losing the fundamental clarity and simplicity that allow us to concentrate on what is really important.”
He suggested several ways of creating simplicity in photographs which I have tried to show in these images.
“Simplicity is nature’s first step and the last of art.” – Philip James Bailey
Choosing a clear and compelling subject that stands out within the frame.
Using negative space and geometric shapes to tell a story.
There is a story about how this picture was taken. It is a view of The Sanctuary Hotel right after a heavy rain storm on Kiawah Island, SC. But the picture is actually a large puddle of rainwater with the hotel reflected in it. The diagonal patterns show the concrete walkway and the curved line is grass. The original photo has been flipped horizontally and turned into a black and white.
“Simplicity boils down to two steps: identify the essential. Eliminate the rest.” – Leo Babauta
Using opposing textures (soft vs hard)
The hard textured tree trunk verses its soft green cedar tree needles. This may be easier to see by clicking on the picture.
I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures. — Lao Tzu
Playing with colours
Hope you have enjoyed seeing these few examples; be sure to see Mr. Philo’s post on Simplicity to learn even more about this important subject!
“People don’t always remember what you said or even what you do, but they always remember how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
🙏