Discover the world of conceptual photography.

What is conceptual photography?

Conceptual photography isn’t tied to a specific subject matter. Rather, it is idea-driven photography. You begin with a story or a concept and use a camera and creative software to bring your vision to life. Conceptual photos are a type of fine art photography in which visual artists go beyond documentation to introduce an idea of their own or use digital tools to create a photo rather than simply capture it.

While it is a category in itself, conceptual work may pull from many different photography genres. A single conceptual image may incorporate elements of landscape photography, still life photography, portraiture, and even documentary photography. Surrealism and abstract genres of art often play an important role in conceiving a conceptual photo, but there are no limits to how you can go about creating conceptual images.

And just because conceptual photos spring from the interests and ideas of the photographer doesn’t mean they can’t be used in commercial photography. Advertisements use conceptual photos to convey messages and sell products, while conceptual portraits are common in everything from high fashion shoots to beauty product campaigns.

The idea is everything.

This is true of many forms of art, but especially for conceptual art. “Some people lack technique, but if they have a vision, their work is interesting,” says conceptual photographer Anya Anti, who creates many surreal photos and self portraits. “And some people who focus a lot on technique rather than on the idea may be technically good, but what they create is boring.”

To come up with a compelling photography idea, you need to get inspired. “Inspiration is like a muscle that you need to exercise,” says Anti. Think of it like a library of visual experience that you collect over time. Once you start to build up your catalog of inspiration, you can draw on different influences, artists, and ideas to help think of your own.

How to find inspiration.

“Look at and study art, not just photography, and follow your favorite conceptual artists,” advises Anti. “Go to galleries and museums and just experience art. Building your taste and artistic vision is important, because you can learn shooting techniques and you can learn the software, but the main issue I see in beginners is a lack of vision.”

Whether you want to make beautiful portraits, otherworldly landscapes, or surreal still life compositions, moodboards are a great way to develop a concept. Pull from magazines and everyday life, or search social media sites like Behance for outstanding examples of conceptual photography. Even just try to re-create a photo you like. This can be a helpful exercise if you’re just getting started in this type of photography.

Find your voice as a conceptual artist.

“One of the most challenging parts is knowing when it’s finished,” says Adams, “There’s always something more you can do.” Part of being a fine art photographer is developing a critical eye, and that takes practice. “Walk away from it for a few days, then come back to it and see it with fresh eyes,” Adams advises.

It can be scary to put your work in front of other people. Anti’s advice for aspiring conceptual artists is to listen to other people, but stay true to yourself. “Do whatever you believe in and are passionate about,” says Anti.

When you first start out, don’t stress too much about your equipment or your technique. “Especially as a conceptual photographer, the idea is the key. Technique will come later,” says Anti. The only thing left to do is go out and get some experience under your belt. Come up with an idea you love and don’t overthink it; just enjoy the process of seeing your artistic vision come to life.