Minimalist Photography: The Visual Power of Simplicity

Minimalism in photography aims to reduce your images to their essential elements, thereby creating clear, unobtrusive compositions. These minimalist photos allow your audience to see the subjects without excessive visual stimuli.

By omitting unnecessary elements, strong emotions can be evoked and lasting impressions left. This approach teaches us to appreciate simplicity and admire the beauty of less.

Minimalism in photography is above all an art of reduction.

(Joachim Rodriguez y Romero)

The definition of minimalism in photography can be traced back to the minimalist art movement. This movement developed in the 1960s as a response to the overwhelming complexity and chaos of modern life and focused on simplicity.

From a photographic point of view, this usually means the use of

• negative space,
• neutral colors and
• laconic compositions.

With this article, I would like to provide you with insights and techniques to create compelling minimalist compositions that will take your visual expression to a new level.

Fundamentals and application of minimalist photography

When taking a picture, you always decide how much context you want to add to your subject. If clean backgrounds, bright areas, or geometric structures suit your preferences, you might be a minimalist photographer.

Minimalist photography originated in the highly abstract painting and sculpture of late 20th-century artists. Through simple geometric forms, striking lines, or monochromatic color fields, minimalist artists created works that did not refer to anything in the real world but stood on their own.

Minimalist photographers adopted this focus on clarity and reduced compositional elements and then applied these principles to what they perceived in their surroundings.

To create your own minimalist images, you should make sure that the scenes you capture also appeal to other people.

"It's about focusing the viewer's attention on a single object or motif and hiding superfluous elements,"

US photographer Aleks Baharlo in a guide to minimalist photography to Adobe .

“Over the years I have learned to trust my instincts and simply act. Nevertheless, it is always a challenge when the subject occupies less than five percent of the entire image area and everything else remains white.”

By reducing the number of elements in the picture frame, photographers direct the viewer's focus to the main subject. Clear compositions leave a lasting impression and convey peace and contemplation.

This approach perfectly emphasizes the form and beauty of the subject by highlighting its best features and conveying its message. That's why minimalism is increasingly used commercial photography

Product photography is just one of many genres where simplicity can be a positive force. Minimalism in photography is versatile and perfectly suited to various styles and genres, be it landscape , architecture , or portraits . Its aesthetic is timeless and easily adapts to different photographic trends.

Key techniques for creating minimalist photographs

Use of negative space

Negative space, or the empty space around the main subject, plays a crucial role in minimalist photography. It directs the focus to the central element of the image and creates a feeling of calm and spaciousness.

The deliberate use of empty space can greatly enhance the impact and expressiveness of the motif.

Neutral colors

Minimalist photography often uses a muted color palette to avoid distracting from the essential features of the image. Black and white photography, or the use of a few harmonious colors, can enhance the clarity and simplicity of your compositions.

Simple compositions

The absence of superfluous details and the focus on clear, clean lines and forms are hallmarks of minimalist photography. Ensure that every element in the image has its purpose and contributes to the overall composition.

Small central motif

A central theme of the photography is the use of minimalist compositions to make the subject appear small in the image and to push it into the background through the negative space. 

In cases where the main motif is not small, it is advisable to choose a particularly simple representation, for example by using a few colored stripes on a wall.

Feel free to use this list as a short guide to minimalist photography . If you pay attention to all four elements, you'll ultimately achieve good minimalist shots. With increasing experience in creating minimalist compositions, your results will become ever more impressive.

7 popular types of minimalist photography

In this video, professional photographer Marc Newton fantastic ways to create minimalist photography. Incidentally, in his online courses, “The School of Photography,”

01 Long exposures

Long exposures are ideal for creating a minimalist style. In the example in the video above, a 10-stop neutral density filter was used to extend the exposure time to 120 seconds. This allowed the water waves to blend smoothly together, creating a uniform effect.

The longer exposure time eliminates the water's textures and color tones, reinforcing the minimalist effect. To learn exactly how this image was created and what equipment was used, I recommend watching the video above.

02 Black and white photography

The black and white format of a photograph is a proven method in minimalist photography, as it removes all distracting colors and thus minimizes distractions.

The image below impresses with its skillful composition and consistent absence of color. The hilly landscape (or is it a human body?) forms the central point, while the sky occupies most of the picture space. The image is compositionally divided into two clear segments: a dark area representing the ground (or body), the undulations of the landscape as a dynamic element, and the white sky.

This reduction to the essentials in terms of objects, colors and tones makes the image an exemplary example of minimalist photography.

03 Color

Compared to reduced black and white photography, colored images can also achieve impressive results, especially when only a limited number of colors or shades are used, which is referred to monochrome

The following image shows an ideal example of monochrome photography, consisting exclusively of blue tones and black shadows. As in other examples, only a few, but clear, shapes and monochromatic color nuances are visible. An outstanding example of minimalist color photography .

The following image cannot be considered strictly monochromatic, as it shows not only a peach tone but also something like eggshell yellow, hibiscus red, and a patch of blue sky. This simple combination of harmonious colors, complemented by various shapes and nuances, makes it an outstanding example of minimalist color photography.

04 N negative space

We've already discussed this point. Negative space , also "empty space" or " white space ," defined in photography as the space surrounding an object that appears empty, plays a crucial role in composition. It's essential to use this space strategically to enhance the image's impact. Negative space can be particularly effective in the context of minimalism.

Effective use of negative space requires careful selection of colors and tones, as well as precise placement within the frame. It's important to remember that negative space serves to emphasize the enclosed object.

05 Sense of scale and proportion

A sense of proportion arises from the arrangement of elements in your scene that emphasize the size of an object through its relationship to other components, for example, a person standing at the foot of a cliff. This person conveys a sense of dimension.

This is particularly effective in minimalist photography, especially when combined with the other topics discussed in this blog, such as black and white photography and the use of negative space.

The following is an example of how a sense of dimension contributes to a minimalist effect. The main subject appears to be standing in a vast, empty environment.

06  Still life

There's no need to wander the streets or use elaborate lighting techniques to create impressive minimalist photographs. It's entirely possible still lifes quite simply in your own home and achieve great results.

In the following example, an antique typewriter is placed against a white background. This type of minimalist photography can be created in just a few minutes. The key aspect of this arrangement is working creatively with the available materials.

In this example, the object is photographed in a flat-lay style . Here, too, the key to success lies in the creative use of the available objects.

07 People / Portraits / Animals

Portraits or depictions of people are a particularly challenging example . The complexity of the human face, body, and clothing makes it difficult to reduce the subject to its essentials. The same applies to animal photography . However, this does not mean it is impossible.

Rather, the goal is to apply the knowledge already gained from the previous examples. In the three following photos, the distraction of color was eliminated by converting them to black and white. The next step concerns the environment in which they are placed. These environments are characterized neither by textures nor by color contrasts.

These are three outstanding examples of how people or animals can be effectively integrated into minimalist photography.

Minimalism in photography: Practical tips for successful implementation

a. Choice of motif

Looking for individual and isolated motifs? A solitary tree in a wide meadow or a dreamy boat on a still lake possesses a natural allure. The reduction to isolated elements creates a feeling of peace and seclusion.

Powerful visual impact is created through bold shapes and clean lines, similar to a modern building against a bright blue sky. However, mastering this style doesn't require any major leaps.

Minimalism in photography teaches us to recognize beauty in simple things. Use everyday objects as works of art. Capture your office chair or your favorite mug of coffee in a new light.

b. Focus on the core issue

In minimalist photography, the subject of each photograph takes center stage, as other compositional elements in the foreground or background are often absent. This reduction to the essentials demands a particularly captivating subject that enthralls the viewer.

The subject matter should be more interesting; otherwise, a minimalist photo becomes just another simple photo. By emphasizing a compelling theme, you give the viewer the opportunity to let their imagination run wild and create their own story.

Often it's the little things that can make a strong minimalist statement. Focus on individual details, such as the texture of an object or the interplay of light and shadow.

c. Composition

Shift your main subject off-center for a more dynamic image. Use the rule of thirds. Utilize natural lines in your surroundings, such as streets, paths, or shadows. Guiding the viewer's eye to the main subject will make your photo more impactful.

Repetition represents stability and order. Photograph a series of identical windows on a building or a series of waves on the beach.

Use the power of negative space. You can draw more attention to the most important part by leaving large areas of your frame empty. Showcase the core element as a small part of the frame. Surround it with space to create a sense of isolation.

A single figure on a deserted beach can convey solitude and peace, while an isolated tree against a cloudy sky can evoke a sense of melancholy. This technique can make the subject appear more prominent and significant, such as a single flower in a vast field of grass.

d. Rule of thirds

Consider the rule of thirds as a recommendation for composing your images. Divide your image into a grid of three horizontal and vertical lines to place your main subject or other important elements at the intersections.

You learn the rules and then decide which ones you prefer and want to apply. Some professional photographers, however, deliberately break with the rule of thirds. Their photography then shows many contrasting lines: horizontal and vertical elements. The result is either a vertical or horizontal image, or a tension between the two.

Therefore, feel free to experiment with each shot to find the optimal composition for your subject.

e. Exposure / lighting conditions

Natural light can enhance your minimalist photography by creating soft transitions and clearly defined shadows. Experiment with different times of day and weather conditions to achieve the best results.

Understand the significance of the golden hour and use it to your advantage. The soft, warm light after sunrise and before sunset can add depth to your images without overwhelming them, which is crucial for simple compositions. The gentle shadows and highlights can accentuate the features of your subject and convey the desired mood.

The light should be soft and diffused. Eliminate harsh shadows and spread the light evenly to capture details and textures without sacrificing subtlety and refinement. However, you can experiment with high contrast for striking silhouettes and drama.

f. Background and location

Minimalist photography is characterized by simple backgrounds that are rich in negative space. The careful selection of the right background is crucial for creating striking minimalist images.

When choosing your photo location, specifically look for areas with a lot of negative space. On the beach, for example, this could include the sky, the sea, the sand, as well as high cliffs or rocks.

Then look for objects that can be integrated into this vast negative space, such as a seagull in the sky, a sailboat in the water, or a bird sitting on a cliff.

For a comprehensive exploration of minimalist photography, you can even go a step further: Choose your photo locations specifically based on their minimalist potential.

Here are some places that offer numerous minimalist options:

• beaches
• Deserts
• Tundra
• Industrial areas (with many empty walls)
• Farmland

Interested in product or studio photography? Then simply position your subject in front of a light box or a white background. Make sure the background is well-lit and take clear photos to your liking.

g. varying perspective

As previously explained, a key aspect of minimalism is eliminating clutter from your images. However, this can be challenging, especially for street, landscape, and architectural photographers who don't always have complete control over their surroundings.

In such situations, it is crucial to develop strategies to eliminate distracting elements. One effective method for this is adjusting the viewing angle. By changing your perspective, you can quickly remove unwanted objects such as street signs, pedestrians, or telephone lines from your shots.

Be creative and experiment with different angles to create the perfect minimalist image. If you encounter any obstacles, you can correct them in post-processing to ensure your shot truly stands out.

h. Use color with a clear purpose

It's conceivable that color plays a significant role in your minimalist photographs. Perhaps you live in a neighborhood characterized by vibrant pastel-colored houses and can use the colorful walls as a backdrop. In product photography, professionals often draw on their clients' brand colors. They either work within this color scheme or have the opportunity to experiment with complementary colors and other color accents.

Although many minimalist photographers work primarily in black and white, you shouldn't completely rule out the use of color. There are situations where color enhances the image or the subject. For example, if you're photographing a flower against a large area of ​​negative space, and the viewer's eye is solely focused on the flower, and the color doesn't distract from the subject, then it can be harmoniously integrated. 

i. Post-production / Image editing

Start with basic photo editing in post-production . Crop your image to refine the composition and remove unnecessary elements from the frame. Adjust contrast and brightness to ensure your subjects stand out. Change the color palette to simplify the image.

This makes your images more harmonious and coherent. Desaturate bright colors or apply the black and white filter. Emphasize shapes and textures with sharpening if necessary, but be careful and avoid overdoing it.

Use selective adjustments to enhance specific parts of the photo. For example, you can slightly brighten the subject while keeping the background darker to create a visible focal point.

Technical tips and camera settings

Finally, I would like to address the technical aspects of minimalist photography. There are a few settings and equipment options that can simplify the process or lead to better results.

j. Reduce depth of field

A shallow depth of field allows you to focus attention on the main subject while the background remains blurred. Professionals use a shallow depth of field to clearly emphasize the main subject while the background remains blurred.

This can be achieved by opening the aperture wide to allow more light to reach the camera sensor, or by increasing the distance between the camera and the subject and then zooming in. This creates a blurred background. If there are light sources behind the subject, a shallow depth of field can create a bokeh effect , where points of light are transformed into blurred circles.

k. Experiment with different exposures

Opening the aperture is not the only way to increase the amount of light reaching the camera sensor. Another option is to lengthen the shutter speed to achieve a more intense exposure or a brighter image.

Increased exposure can cause a cloudy sky to appear as a bright white expanse. Many photos of this style contain a lot of negative space in white, which emphasizes the gray or dark-colored subject. Professionals therefore recommend using exposure bracketing : first a picture with optimal exposure, then one with significantly higher exposure, and finally one with significantly lower exposure.

These different settings offer you expanded possibilities when post-processing the photo.

l. Choose your lens carefully

For minimalist photography, you can use any lens, but there are specialized lenses that are better suited to certain situations. Therefore, be sure to choose your lens carefully, regardless of any other preparations you make.

Minimalist photography often relies on compact compositions that require either a wide field of view or a significant distance between you and your subject. A wide -angle lens provides a broad field of view, while a telephoto lens allows you to capture minimalist images from a great distance. However, these two methods are not interchangeable.

Certain environments are unsuitable for telephoto photography . For example, in a city with narrow streets, a focal length of 200 mm is often too short to achieve a pleasing 35mm equivalent effect. In such cases, a wide-angle lens is the better choice.

On the other hand, wide-angle lenses aren't always ideal. For example, what do you do if you want to take minimalist shots of distant mountains under a stormy sky? If you're not prepared to travel long distances, a telephoto lens is advisable.

Before you set off, consider which subjects you want to capture and in what environment you will be working.

Ask yourself: Is a wide-angle lens appropriate? Could a telephoto lens possibly be too long?

Aiming for international accolades? The Minimalist Photography Awards

Do you have ambitious goals? Do you want to master this stylish style of photography in all its facets ? Then you should continue to refine your art and perhaps even enter a major competition. For example, you could win $2,000 and international recognition at the prestigious Minimalist Photography Awards .

The winners receive the title "Minimalist Photographer of the Year" and cash prizes.

The works of the first, second and third place winners (along with other entries deemed worthy of praise by the jury) will be published in the Minimalist Photography Awards .

All the names of the Honourable Mention winners will also be included in the book.

Final words

And that brings us to the end of our little guide…

Minimalism in photography demands a trained eye and a clear vision, but the effort is worthwhile. By striving for simplicity, you not only create aesthetically pleasing images, but also convey powerful, emotional messages that resonate with the viewer.

Discover the beauty in less and be inspired by the art of minimalism! Enjoy! 🙂