Beyond the Subject: Abstract Street Photography
Most street photography relies on subjects, people, gestures, or decisive moments. But what happens when the subject is overphotographed, inaccessible, or uninspiring? Abstract street photography removes context and shifts focus from what it is to how it feels. Reflections, shadows, motion blur, patterns, and negative space become the language of expression.
This workshop invites participants to move beyond literal and experiment with Portsmouth as raw material for visual poetry.
Portsmouth NH
September 20, 2025
5:00-7:00
$125.
Introduction and instruction
Why we get stuck in ruts (same photos, same subjects).
Abstract photography as a way to refresh vision.
Handout explanations:
Reflections in buildings/puddles/windows.
Layered “double exposures” in camera.
Diffused silhouettes through plastic, fog, or screens.
Motion blur street scenes.
Minimalist frames with negative space.
Reflections & Double Exposure Illusions
Reflection Hunt
Find reflections in shop windows, subway tiles, chrome, of smartphone.
Flip orientation or shoot upside-down to intrigue the viewer.
Natural Double Exposure
Position glass to capture both interior and exterior at once.
Wait for overlapping figures to align across layers.
Learn how: Reflections fracture reality, creating layered, puzzle-like images.
Diffusion & Obstruction
Shoot Through
Use plastic, fabric, smoke, fog, tinted glass, or grates to obscure.
Abstract Silhouettes
Capture people as shadows against colored screens, frosted glass, or overhead walkways.
Learn how: Diffusion and obstruction create painterly ambiguity, where the viewer must “decode” the frame.
Motion & Blur
Blur the Street
Start at 1/30 sec to retain some context; drop to 1/8 sec or slower for pure abstraction.
Pan with moving subjects (runners, cyclists, buses).
Controlled Chaos
Anchor on a still element and let the street flow past in blur.
Learn how: Blur doesn’t ruin photos; it reveals time and energy.
Minimalism & Negative Space
Less is More
Seek empty skies, walls, or expanses. Place a single subject fragment within it.
Color as Subject
Photograph bold blocks of color (paint, signage, fabric) as standalone compositions.
Learn how: Negative space and simplicity make the ordinary feel monumental.
What people are saying about out monthy street photogrpahy workshops:
“I learned more in one workshop than in months of online tutorials. The instructors at Seacoast have a way of making technical concepts simple and creative at the same time.” – Sarah L., Portsmouth, NH
“The hands-on style of teaching is what makes Seacoast Photography School so different. I left not just with photos I’m proud of, but with new ways of seeing.” – Tom R., Kittery, ME
“The street photography workshop in Portsmouth felt like an adventure. It’s the perfect balance of fun and learning.” – Emily K., Boston, MA
“I was nervous about joining as a beginner, but the small group size and supportive environment made me feel right at home. Highly recommend!” – Mark P., Dover, NH
“The workshop was beautifully organized. The lesson had clear focus, practical exercises, and plenty of one-on-one guidance. Worth every penny.” – James W., Portland, ME
Sign up Early to Reserve your Spot:
This workshop is limited to 10 participants to assure personalized attention!
Don't miss this opportunity to sharpen your street photography skills, explore Portsmouth’s charm, and connect with fellow photographers who share your passion for capturing the essence of city life in the summer
For questions, please email us at info@seacoastphotographyschool.com.
(In the event of inclement weather, a date will be rescheduled or full refunds will be provided.)
Most street photography relies on subjects, people, gestures, or decisive moments. But what happens when the subject is overphotographed, inaccessible, or uninspiring? Abstract street photography removes context and shifts focus from what it is to how it feels. Reflections, shadows, motion blur, patterns, and negative space become the language of expression.
This workshop invites participants to move beyond literal and experiment with Portsmouth as raw material for visual poetry.
Portsmouth NH
September 20, 2025
5:00-7:00
$125.
Introduction and instruction
Why we get stuck in ruts (same photos, same subjects).
Abstract photography as a way to refresh vision.
Handout explanations:
Reflections in buildings/puddles/windows.
Layered “double exposures” in camera.
Diffused silhouettes through plastic, fog, or screens.
Motion blur street scenes.
Minimalist frames with negative space.
Reflections & Double Exposure Illusions
Reflection Hunt
Find reflections in shop windows, subway tiles, chrome, of smartphone.
Flip orientation or shoot upside-down to intrigue the viewer.
Natural Double Exposure
Position glass to capture both interior and exterior at once.
Wait for overlapping figures to align across layers.
Learn how: Reflections fracture reality, creating layered, puzzle-like images.
Diffusion & Obstruction
Shoot Through
Use plastic, fabric, smoke, fog, tinted glass, or grates to obscure.
Abstract Silhouettes
Capture people as shadows against colored screens, frosted glass, or overhead walkways.
Learn how: Diffusion and obstruction create painterly ambiguity, where the viewer must “decode” the frame.
Motion & Blur
Blur the Street
Start at 1/30 sec to retain some context; drop to 1/8 sec or slower for pure abstraction.
Pan with moving subjects (runners, cyclists, buses).
Controlled Chaos
Anchor on a still element and let the street flow past in blur.
Learn how: Blur doesn’t ruin photos; it reveals time and energy.
Minimalism & Negative Space
Less is More
Seek empty skies, walls, or expanses. Place a single subject fragment within it.
Color as Subject
Photograph bold blocks of color (paint, signage, fabric) as standalone compositions.
Learn how: Negative space and simplicity make the ordinary feel monumental.
What people are saying about out monthy street photogrpahy workshops:
“I learned more in one workshop than in months of online tutorials. The instructors at Seacoast have a way of making technical concepts simple and creative at the same time.” – Sarah L., Portsmouth, NH
“The hands-on style of teaching is what makes Seacoast Photography School so different. I left not just with photos I’m proud of, but with new ways of seeing.” – Tom R., Kittery, ME
“The street photography workshop in Portsmouth felt like an adventure. It’s the perfect balance of fun and learning.” – Emily K., Boston, MA
“I was nervous about joining as a beginner, but the small group size and supportive environment made me feel right at home. Highly recommend!” – Mark P., Dover, NH
“The workshop was beautifully organized. The lesson had clear focus, practical exercises, and plenty of one-on-one guidance. Worth every penny.” – James W., Portland, ME
Sign up Early to Reserve your Spot:
This workshop is limited to 10 participants to assure personalized attention!
Don't miss this opportunity to sharpen your street photography skills, explore Portsmouth’s charm, and connect with fellow photographers who share your passion for capturing the essence of city life in the summer
For questions, please email us at info@seacoastphotographyschool.com.
(In the event of inclement weather, a date will be rescheduled or full refunds will be provided.)
Most street photography relies on subjects, people, gestures, or decisive moments. But what happens when the subject is overphotographed, inaccessible, or uninspiring? Abstract street photography removes context and shifts focus from what it is to how it feels. Reflections, shadows, motion blur, patterns, and negative space become the language of expression.
This workshop invites participants to move beyond literal and experiment with Portsmouth as raw material for visual poetry.
Portsmouth NH
September 20, 2025
5:00-7:00
$125.
Introduction and instruction
Why we get stuck in ruts (same photos, same subjects).
Abstract photography as a way to refresh vision.
Handout explanations:
Reflections in buildings/puddles/windows.
Layered “double exposures” in camera.
Diffused silhouettes through plastic, fog, or screens.
Motion blur street scenes.
Minimalist frames with negative space.
Reflections & Double Exposure Illusions
Reflection Hunt
Find reflections in shop windows, subway tiles, chrome, of smartphone.
Flip orientation or shoot upside-down to intrigue the viewer.
Natural Double Exposure
Position glass to capture both interior and exterior at once.
Wait for overlapping figures to align across layers.
Learn how: Reflections fracture reality, creating layered, puzzle-like images.
Diffusion & Obstruction
Shoot Through
Use plastic, fabric, smoke, fog, tinted glass, or grates to obscure.
Abstract Silhouettes
Capture people as shadows against colored screens, frosted glass, or overhead walkways.
Learn how: Diffusion and obstruction create painterly ambiguity, where the viewer must “decode” the frame.
Motion & Blur
Blur the Street
Start at 1/30 sec to retain some context; drop to 1/8 sec or slower for pure abstraction.
Pan with moving subjects (runners, cyclists, buses).
Controlled Chaos
Anchor on a still element and let the street flow past in blur.
Learn how: Blur doesn’t ruin photos; it reveals time and energy.
Minimalism & Negative Space
Less is More
Seek empty skies, walls, or expanses. Place a single subject fragment within it.
Color as Subject
Photograph bold blocks of color (paint, signage, fabric) as standalone compositions.
Learn how: Negative space and simplicity make the ordinary feel monumental.
What people are saying about out monthy street photogrpahy workshops:
“I learned more in one workshop than in months of online tutorials. The instructors at Seacoast have a way of making technical concepts simple and creative at the same time.” – Sarah L., Portsmouth, NH
“The hands-on style of teaching is what makes Seacoast Photography School so different. I left not just with photos I’m proud of, but with new ways of seeing.” – Tom R., Kittery, ME
“The street photography workshop in Portsmouth felt like an adventure. It’s the perfect balance of fun and learning.” – Emily K., Boston, MA
“I was nervous about joining as a beginner, but the small group size and supportive environment made me feel right at home. Highly recommend!” – Mark P., Dover, NH
“The workshop was beautifully organized. The lesson had clear focus, practical exercises, and plenty of one-on-one guidance. Worth every penny.” – James W., Portland, ME
Sign up Early to Reserve your Spot:
This workshop is limited to 10 participants to assure personalized attention!
Don't miss this opportunity to sharpen your street photography skills, explore Portsmouth’s charm, and connect with fellow photographers who share your passion for capturing the essence of city life in the summer
For questions, please email us at info@seacoastphotographyschool.com.
(In the event of inclement weather, a date will be rescheduled or full refunds will be provided.)