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In this unit, students will explore the concept of minimalist photography, which focuses on simplicity, negative space, and strong composition. They will learn to create compelling images by stripping down visual elements to their essentials, using color, shape, and texture to evoke meaning.
Students will practice shooting minimalist images in different environments and apply compositional techniques that enhance clarity and impact. The unit will culminate in a Minimalist Photography Series, where students present a collection of their strongest minimalist images.
Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
Identify the key characteristics of minimalist photography.
Apply compositional techniques to create visually striking minimalist images.
Utilize negative space effectively in their photography.
Make intentional choices regarding subject, background, and color to simplify an image.
Edit photos to enhance minimalism while maintaining clarity and impact.
Critically analyze minimalist images through peer critique.
Big Ideas
Less is More – Reducing elements in an image can create a stronger visual impact.
Intentional Composition – Every element in a minimalist photograph should serve a purpose.
Negative Space as a Tool – Open space can guide the viewer’s eye and enhance the subject.
Color and Shape Speak Loudly – Even without complex scenes, color, line, and form can convey emotion and meaning.
Essential Questions
How does simplicity enhance the impact of a photograph?
What role does negative space play in composition?
How can we use color, shape, and texture to create visually compelling images?
What emotions or messages can be conveyed through minimalist photography?
How does editing enhance the minimalist aesthetic?
Vocabulary
Minimalism – A style that uses simplicity and a limited number of elements.
Negative Space – The empty or open space around a subject in an image.
Composition – The arrangement of elements within a photograph.
Contrast – The difference between light and dark, color, or texture to create emphasis.
Balance – The way visual elements are arranged to create a sense of stability in an image.
Simplicity – The reduction of distractions to focus on the subject.
Monochrome – A photograph using one color or shades of a single color.
Framing – How the subject is positioned within the borders of the image.
Perspective – The point of view or angle from which a photograph is taken.
Leading Lines – Lines that guide the viewer’s eye through an image.
Reference
Assignment Description
Week 1 – Introduction & Exploration
Week 1 – Introduction & Exploration
Day 1: Introduction to Minimalist Photography
Present a slideshow of minimalist photography examples.
Discuss the principles of minimalism in art and photography.
Group discussion: Where do we see minimalism in everyday life?
Day 2: Composition & Negative Space
Mini-lecture on composition techniques (rule of thirds, leading lines, negative space).
In-class practice: Students take 5 quick minimalist photos using their phones/cameras and discuss.
Day 3-4: Shooting Assignment #1 – Simplicity in Everyday Life
Students capture three (3) minimalist images from their immediate environment (classroom, school grounds, or home).
Peer review: Students share images and receive feedback.
Day 5: Editing & Refinement
Introduction to basic editing techniques for enhancing minimalist photography.
Students adjust contrast, cropping, and color balance in Lightroom or Photoshop.
Week 2 – Refinement & Final Project
Week 2 – Refinement & Final Project
Day 6-7: Shooting Assignment #2 – Curated Minimalist Series
Students venture outside school or home to capture five (5) final images for their minimalist series.
Images should showcase a variety of compositions, color choices, and perspectives.
Day 8: Artist Statement Writing
Students draft a short artist statement explaining their approach to minimalism.
Peer review & feedback session.
Day 9: Final Edits & Presentation Prep
Final touch-ups on images and artist statements.
Students prepare a digital slideshow or print display for critique.
Day 10: Class Critique & Reflection
Students present their Minimalist Photography Series.
Class discusses strengths, areas of improvement, and key takeaways from the unit.
Reflection: What was the most challenging aspect of shooting minimalist images? What did they learn from this process?
You will be graded on the following:
Correct Naming Convention: LastName_FirstName_ProjectName-##.jpeg
There will be 4 Grades per Assignment
Turning in 10 images on the assigned due date
Turning in a contact sheet on the assigned due date, minimum of 100 images on the contact sheet
Placing 3 photos in the print folder
Hanging your photos once they are printed
Correctly capturing the assignment specifications
Creating unique compositions with interesting subject matter
Quality of retouching
Use of the Elements of Art: Color, Form, Line, Shape, Space, Texture, Value
Use of the Principles of Design: Balance, Contrast, Emphasis, Movement (Rhythm), Perspective, Repetition (Pattern), Unity
***If you take photos of your pet it must be a well thought out, planned composition
*** Photos taken in or around school are prohibited
*** Plan out your photo shoots do now wait until the night before the photos are due to take your photos, pay attention to the weather
***DO NOT TURN IN MULTIPLE ANGLES OF THE SAME SHOT. EACH SHOT MUST BE UNIQUE AND DIFFERENT.
Georgia Department of Education Visual Art Photography 1 Standards
VAHSAPR.1: Engage in the creative process to generate ideas.
VAHSAPR.2: Produce photographs that communicate meaning.
VAHSVAC.2: Critically analyze and interpret artworks.
VAHSVAC.3: Engage in the process of reflection to improve artwork.
VAHSPR.3: Understand and apply media, techniques, and processes of photography.
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