Here’s a beautiful photograph that contains the key to many abstract ideas.
Susan says, “Of course we are looking at budding branches frozen in ice, but what abstract ideas might be hidden in this beautiful photo. I can see the possibility of this photo prompting discussions about plans being nipped in the bud or the problems that arise when relationships are frozen in place or the fraught relationship between agriculture and weather or the power of negativity to change or kill creativity. The importance of using photos like this is that they enhance the viewers ability to understand abstractions. I remember a college professor standing on a rotating platform with buckets of water in each hand. When she held the buckets away from her body she rotated more slowly than when she held them at her side. I saw this demonstration nearly 40 years ago, but I remember it vividly. Can any one tell me the principle that she was illustrating?”
Lucia says, “On a frozen winter’s day, I was taken by the wonder of these unopened buds on an ice-coated tree. Using a shallow depth of field, I move in close to fill the frame with them and create an abstract photo. For me, there is another way to look at this. The tangle of frozen branches could be mistaken for molecules under a microscope. I like creating photos that give the illusion of something else, making the observer think twice when looking at them. The mystery of it is an attention grabber.”
We hope that this series has proved valuable. With a little effort it is possible to simplify an idea to make it easier to access or put into practice. What do you think?
