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
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Thank you so much, Philo, for sharing your thoughts and for the kind words about this post. It was interesting to read your thoughts about each image. Also, I really like the topic you chose, Simplicity. For me, examples of Simplicity can be interpretated many different ways; all of which are positive. Thank you again. Namaste.
Thank you so much Anne, glad you enjoyed seeing these pictures!
Thank you Tina! Do you remember when a group of us went on a Photo Shoot at the Sanctuary some years ago? I got some good pictures that day and this reflection turned out to be a favorite, glad you like!
I guess, it’s moon, in the featured image. I maybe wrong.
What a beautiful compilation of ideas about minimalism!
Mesmerizing!
Your featured photograph of the Moon and Sun with clouds is stunning! The splendour of the heavenly body provides peace.
I like the quote from Leo Babauta.
The puddle’s reflection is incredible! You flipped the image, Clevery.
I like the black and white appearance, as well as the contrasted grass and diagonal lines. Puddle and its reflection tell us about the transient nature of our life, and how we may discover beauty and joy in unexpected places during the fleeting moments.
The click of the opposite texture is interesting! It encourages us to appreciate the beauty that exists when opposites coexist.
I adore these fascinating birds on the lake, as well as the wavy reflections!
Thank you very much for sharing these treasures and joining us, Sylvia Bacon.
Namaste.
A nice teach on simplicity with amazing images.
A lovely post this week Sylvia, not sure how I missed it! Especially liked how clear the Sanctuary image is in the puddle, great job on that one!!