15+ Aesthetic Photography Styles You Need

Journey into the visual symphony of aesthetic photography—where every frame whispers an untold story. But what lies beneath the surface?
Date Published
March 3, 2024

Table of Contents

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Ever stared at a photo that's prettier than a shiny, new toy on Christmas? Yeah, aesthetic photography does that to you—it just grabs your eyeballs and doesn't let go. We're not just snapping pics anymore; we're creating visual feasts that make our hearts do the happy dance. But what's the secret sauce in these eye-candy shots? Spoiler alert: It's not just a fancy camera. Let's dive into the juicy world of aesthetic photography principles and the visual allure that's more hypnotic than watching cat videos on loop. Buckle up, friend, you're about to find out how to make your photos pop like popcorn in a microwave—minus the burnt kernels, of course.

What exactly is aesthetic photography

Aesthetic photography isn't just about snapping a pic that looks decent. Oh no, it's about creating a feel. This snaps need to ooze style and scream 'I am art!' with every pixel. You dive deep into the principles of aesthetic photography and, let me tell ya, it's all about that visual allure in imagery. We're talking about photos that make you stop scrolling and just... stare.

Now, everyone's got their own take on what 'aesthetic' means, right? But when it comes to photography, it boils down to a couple of game-changing elements: composition and mood. Want a shot that people can't look away from? Start playing with light, shadows, and colors in ways that might feel a bit weird at first. But trust me, that's how the magic happens.

Just remember, it’s like cooking up a visual feast. Patterns, symmetry, depth—these are the spices that can make your photo go from "meh" to "whoa". When the balance is just right, your picture will have a flavor that words can’t do justice. And that, my friend, is the savory secret of aesthetic photography.

The history and origin of aesthetic photography

Every picture tells a story, but the aesthetic photography tale? Oh, it's a novel woven with light and shadow, color and form. Way back in the 19th century, when folks were just getting the hang of capturing images, some bright minds thought, "Let's not just record this stuff, let's make it pretty!" So began the quest for photos that tickle the senses.

Now huddle up and listen: photographic composition techniques didn't just rain down one stormy night; they evolved. The masters of paint and brush were the OG influencers; photographers mirrored their sense of balance, focus, and dynamics. They turned a scene into a visual symphony, playing on the natural eye's love for patterns and order. It's like arranging furniture, but for your eyeballs.

Splashes of color had their own dramatic saga, too. Color theory in photos is like spice in cooking – too little, and it's blah; too much, and it's a hot mess. It took ages of trial and error to nail that colors can stir emotions and lead gaze. Even the dullest brown, when hugged by the right shades, can become a heartthrob on canvas. So yeah, it's not just happenstance; it's the science of feels.

But hey, don't just take this stroll through history; put it into practice. Peek at a scene, sculpt it with the rule of thirds, and paint it with hues that make your heart sing. To get your creative juices flowing, here's a deep dive into those composition techniques and color theories I just babbled about. Ready to snap your own aesthetic masterpiece? Let's make history.

Vintage Aesthetic Photography

You know those photos that look like they've time-traveled from your grandma's attic, right to your Instagram feed? Those are the vintage vibes we're obsessing over. To get that nostalgic feel, think sepia tones, washed-out colors, and yes, the beloved film grain. It's not just about slapping a filter on your digital photos; it's about recreating an era.

Crank up the film grain in your digital shots to give it that old-school charm. Too much, and your photo will look like it wrestled with a sandstorm. Just enough, and it whispers tales of the good ol’ days. Remember, it's a fine art, walking that tightrope between classically aged and trying too hard.

But why stop at visuals? Some photographers swear by actually shooting with vintage cameras or film to capture the authentic experience. It's the raw imperfections, those happy accidents of light leaks or unexpected blurs, that give your vintage image the soul it deserves.

And if you want to dive into the vintage aesthetic, do your homework. Study the masters who made this style iconic—photographers like William Eggleston or Vivian Maier. Their work wasn't just about old stuff—it was about stories, emotions, and a different time that can still move us today.

Whether you're a pro or just Instagramming your coffee, vintage aesthetic photography is good for wrapping today's moments in yesterday's warm embrace. It's proof that beauty doesn't age, it just gets cooler with a touch of grain and a splash of time-worn color.

Minimalist Aesthetic Photography

Minimalist aesthetic photography, it's like the Marie Kondo of the camera world. It's all about sparkling joy through less. Why is minimalist photography popular? It cuts the clutter! This style allows the subject to bask in the glory of simplicity and intention. With only a handful of elements in the frame, each one needs to speak volumes, like an introvert at a party clutching the best anecdotes.

When aiming for that minimalist composition, think 'less is more' and focus on 2-4 elements only. The power of a simplistic photographic style lies in its ability to highlight the beauty in the ordinary, turning a simple line or shadow into a profound statement. It's a visual haiku, capturing the essence with brevity.

So, grab your camera and scout for clean lines, solid colors, and ample negative space. Celebrate the visual allure of simplicity. Let each shot embrace emptiness and let your subject breathe. Remember, when you strip down to the basics, the message in your image resonates louder. Now get out there and make some minimalist magic!

Urban Aesthetic Photography

You're walking through the city, yeah? You see the hustle, the bustle, and you think, "Gotta capture this vibe!" That's where urban aesthetic photography swings in like a superhero. It's all about showcasing the raw, edgy side of city life. Urban aesthetics in photos? Big deal right there, friend. It's the graffiti, steam rising from the manholes, and those sneaky, sly smiles you catch on commuters' faces.

Now, I know what you're wondering, "How do I nail that candid street photography?" Precision is key - catch those unguarded moments like a pro. People just living their lives - it's gold! Think crowded crosswalks, skateboarders grinding rails, and that sweet old couple feeding pigeons. But remember, it's not just snapping willy-nilly; compose your shots to tell a story.

And for crying out loud, play with light and shadow! They're your stage and your spotlight in the theater of the concrete jungle. Early morning sun casting long shadows or that perfect sunset glow bouncing off skyscrapers – it's all part of the urban tapestry. So go ahead, lean into those urban clichés a little - those fire escapes and ubiquitous yellow cabs can be downright poetic.

But let's get real, you ain't claiming the title of urban photo whiz without some street smarts and etiquette. Respect the folks you're capturing. Some people love a camera, and some... not so much. Your lens is mighty, so wield that power with some kindness, eh?

Lastly, go get inspired by the giants who trod this path. Creep on the greats like Vivian Maier or Henri Cartier-Bresson – oh, what those eyes saw! Their work? Pure urban soul, captured forever. Take that inspo, hit the streets, and make the city your gallery.

Portrait Aesthetic Photography

Let's get personal with emotive portrait photography, folks. You know, that kind of shot that makes you feel like the person in the picture is about to step out and tell you their life story. It's all about capturing the essence of the person, their emotions, and, yep, their soul if you want to get a bit poetic. We want each photo to scream 'This is me!'.

And guess what? Monochrome is your new best friend in this game. A monochrome photographic style strips down the distractions, making way for the real star—expression. In black and white, every laugh line, every thoughtful furrow, gets its moment to shine. Legendary photographers like Steve McCurry have long sworn by the power of a monochromatic palette to tell a deeper story.

Now, don't panic if you're color-addicted. A splash of color can amplify emotions too—if you use it right. Think about this: use color to highlight a striking feature or to provide a glimpse into the subject's personality. And remember, lighting is your secret weapon. Use it to craft the mood, whether it's a soft backlight for a dreamy feel or a harsh sidelight to create drama.

This is the style that'll work wonders for your Insta-feed, too. Why? Because people connect with people. A well-captured portrait stops the scroll, so take your time, get to know your subject, and let the camera do the talking. Ready to make your mark with a click?

So, grab your camera and dive into the world of portrait aesthetic photography. It's a journey through expressions, a play with shadows, and an exploration of the human condition. Now, go capture those stories just waiting to be told.

Landscape Aesthetic Photography

Ever wondered why your heart skips a beat when you see a picture of a sprawling meadow bathed in the sunrise glow? That, my friend, is the magic of landscape aesthetic photography. It's not just about snapping shots of greenery; it's a full-blown romance between serene nature captures and golden hour photo techniques. Think about the last time you felt peace looking at a photograph – chances are, it's because someone mastered this.

To nail this style, you’ve gotta wake up while the rest of the world is snoozing. Grab your camera during the golden hour, when the sun casts the world in a warm embrace, and colors pop in a way that screams 'nature’s beauty'. It’s like Mother Earth is posing just for you. Don’t forget, your photo should feel like a deep breath of fresh air; aim for that tranquil vibe.

But, wait! There's more to it than pretty lighting. Composition is the secret sauce. Leading lines take your eyes on a stroll through the picture, and the rule of thirds keeps everything balanced like a zen master. While you're out there being one with nature, remember to add your own twist. Capture reflections, play with silhouettes, or simply let the natural contours of the landscape be the star of the show. Serene nature captures are a recipe for inner calm – blood pressure drops not included.

Abstract Aesthetic Photography

Picture this: You're before an image where the colors just dance around, where shapes and lines twist into forms you can't quite name. That's abstract photography for you, friend. Surreal, isn't it? It's about exploring beyond the obvious and playing with the world's textures to create something that hits you right in the feels.

So why do photographers go gaga over abstract imagery? It's the freedom, baby! They can twist and turn reality, highlighting things like peeling paint or the ripple of water, and make it into a masterpiece. They're like visual poets, aren't they? Their cameras are their pens, and every texture they emphasize tells a story.

If you're itching to give this a whirl, start by getting close—like, really close to your subject. Look for those patterns and textures that scream for attention. Then, go wild with your angles and framing, making even the mundane look epic. It's not just taking a photo; it's sculpting light and shadow!

Heard of Aaron Siskind? He's basically the superhero of abstract photography, turning grit and old walls into iconic images. Follow in his footsteps, and you could turn the simplest texture into art. That's the power of the abstract—making the ordinary extraordinary. Give it a shot, and pretty soon, you'll be seeing photo ops everywhere!

Fashion Aesthetic Photography

Let's talk runway ready snaps, buddy. Think fashion shoot aesthetics—it's all about that pizzazz and panache. You're aiming to make every shot look like it's tearing straight out of Vogue, right? Well, grab those stilettos and let's sashay into the secrets behind capturing that high-fashion flair.

First off, it's all about setting a scene that screams couture. Whether it's the urban jungle or a meticulously designed set, your backdrop's gotta complement those designer threads you're showcasing. And lighting? Honey, it's key. You want shadows and highlights playing off the fabrics like a symphony, giving you depth and drama.

Your model is the canvas, and the clothes are your paint. Get them to serve face and body, really work those angles to show off the garments. Remember, fashion photography is a dialogue between the camera and the clothing. Tell a story with each pose, expression, and movement directed to make those clothes pop.

Editorial photography tips? Yep, got a couple: keep it bold, keep it edgy. Your photos should feel like a page-turning narrative - each one a cliffhanger that leaves folks dying to see the next. And don't forget post-production magic—those hues and contrasts can transport a great shot to iconic status.

But hey, don't take my word for it—dive into the world of fashion aesthetic photography and make that style your signature. Now, go on and snap some head-turners!

Fine Art Aesthetic Photography

You wanna dive deep into the heart of creativity? Look no further than fine art aesthetic photography, folks! Here's the scoop: It's all about fine art photo considerations—that means thinkin' long and hard about your composition, theme, and message. We're talkin' about crafting a visual story that whispers or screams your artistic intent.

And if you've got a thing for getting in front of the camera, unleash your inner Picasso with some creative self-portraiture ideas. Self-portraits in fine art photography? Yeah, it's like keeping a diary, but way cooler 'cause you get to play dress-up or go au natural—and each click is a page of your inner world. Just ask Cindy Sherman, queen of disguises, who's been slaying this game since forever.

Remember, your camera is your paintbrush, and the world is your canvas. Try capturing the mundane in majestic ways or turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. Heck, use props, costumes, or go bare—figuratively speaking (or literally, if that’s your jam!). Shoot in monochrome to capture deep emotions or color to explode with vibrancy. It's all about creating shots that belong in a gallery as much as on your 'gram.

So, ready to snap masterpieces that'll make everyone's jaws drop? Hit up your imagination and let those creative juices flow!

FAQ

Q: How do you take aesthetic pictures?

A: Start by focusing on compelling subjects, use natural light, play with angles, and add a touch of your unique style to make your photos pop.

Q: How do you become an aesthetic photographer?

A: Practice regularly, study different aesthetic styles, master the technical skills, and develop your eye for beauty and composition.

Q: How do you make aesthetic pictures?

A: Use balanced composition, interesting textures, harmonious color palettes, and effective lighting to create visually pleasing images.

Q: What are the 3 styles of photography?

A: The three main styles are portrait, landscape, and documentary photography, each having its unique techniques and aesthetics.

Final Words

Alright, let's wrap it up! From the deeply-rooted history to the various forms like vintage, minimalist, or urban, aesthetic photography is an expansive field. Remember, whether you're capturing the raw emotion in a portrait, the stunning stillness of a landscape, or the boldness of abstract art, your unique view is what brings a photo to life.

Your final takeaway? Keep pushing the envelope – mix those photographic composition techniques with a sprinkle of color theory, and don't be afraid to let your creative flag fly high. And hey, stay positive out there; the world of aesthetic photography is wide open for your next snapshot masterpiece.

Meet the Author
Aria Ohlsson
Aria Ohlsson, the Instagram storyteller extraordinaire, takes you on adventures through her enchanting narratives. An avid hiker, she scales peaks and weaves tales of mountaintop triumphs. When she's not conquering trails, you'll find her immersed in classic novels, finding inspiration for her next tale.
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