There is no denying that photography is one of the most beloved art forms in the world. Individuals around the globe love to both take and look at photographs of different places, people, and things. This art form is also effective at communicating ideas and emotions, giving it a timeless quality.

If you are looking to expand your art collection and fill your walls with unique and meaningful images, read on as the top Pennsylvania photographer shares the five types of photography that every art lover should collect.

1. Abstract Art Photography

For art lovers who have an open mind and a brilliant imagination, there is no better form of photography than abstract art photography.

These types of photos require a viewer to look beyond the basic ideas you already understand or recognize and instead to look for something deeper and more profound. By provoking your mind to explore unknown areas, abstract photography gives you an opportunity to perceive what exists beyond the tangible.

While it may at first seem overwhelming to start dipping your toes into collecting abstract art photography, the best way to approach this art form is to not overthink it and not be too concerned with the rules (there are none!). Instead, look for photographers and individual photographs that you enjoy and that make you feel something, and then work from there.

Incorporating abstract art photography into your home means giving each piece the space that it deserves, allowing it to stand out. That being said, your abstract art photography doesn’t have to coordinate precisely with the rest of your decor, you want it to make a statement and to catch the eye of anyone who walks by it.

2. Fine Art Photography

Despite being one of the youngest forms of fine art (it arrived in the early 1970s), fine art photography is quickly becoming one of the most popular styles of art for collectors around the world.

As with other types of fine art, this form of photography is about an idea or an emotion. Fine art photographers know how to use their camera to create a beautiful image that also brings many layers of meaning to a viewer. They also have a clear idea of what they want to convey in their photograph.

When looking to add pieces to your fine art photography collection, it is advised that you prioritize photographs that are limited edition. The fewer editions of a photograph that exist, the more valuable each one becomes, which is why limited edition photographs are highly desirable.

Additionally, it is also essential to take into consideration the craftsmanship of a particular photograph. Researching the photographer, their photography portfolio, and the caliber of the equipment they use will give you a better understanding of a photo’s potential value.

That being said, as a photographer’s popularity, reputation and experience develops, the value of their work will increase. So if you find a stunning fine art photograph in the early days of an artist’s career, it may make for an excellent investment. Plus, everyone likes to know they spotted the “next big thing” first.

3. Food Photography

While many people have the ability to take food photographs on their phone, this doesn’t necessarily classify the resulting photo as “food photography.” When professionals who specialize in food photography take their photos, they can tell an entire story within their image.

These photographers know how to prepare an image to appeal to your eyes, as well as your taste buds. They understand how to communicate cultural aspects through the presentation, and they can manipulate light to bring out the natural beauty of food. Their talent lies in being able to produce an image that makes a viewer feel as though they are seeing the dish right in front of them.

While you can opt to have food photography throughout your house, it looks especially fabulous when hung in a kitchen. This will help to set the mood in this room and may even inspire you when it is your turn to cook dinner!

4. Travel Photography

Travel photography is another beloved form of contemporary photography that can immediately transport a viewer to a different place. The purpose of this photography is to bring the world closer together and to expose viewers to what else exists.

Professional travel photographers recognize that part of their work is to educate people about other cultures, by both showing how things are different and similar.

Having photographs of your favorite destinations around the world (or those that are on your bucket list) is a fantastic way to bring these places into your home in an intimate yet artistic way.

Consider creating a gallery wall with a collection of travel photography from photographers around the world. You can surround these photographs with other complementing items such as sketches or framed souvenirs that you have collected on your travels. This is a surefire way to add eccentricity to any room.

5. Personal Photography

Last but not least, all homes should have a collection of personal photography that is taken by a professional photographer. Whether it is wedding photos, family portraits, engagement mementoes, or other captured moments from special events, these photographs are ones that should be treasured forever.

Additionally, if you have a business, you may want to have a framed photograph of your products, your buildings, or something else that represents your life’s work.

Hiring a professional photographer to take these types of photographs is highly recommended because they will be able to work with you to ensure that you get images that reflect your vision.

With their superior knowledge of technology and techniques, professional photographers take the stress out of getting the shot you want, ensuring that you will always have a photograph that you are proud to hang on your wall.

Are you looking to build your photography collection? If so, what type of photography do you enjoy? How do you decide what your next piece will be? What do you find challenging about choosing photography pieces?

Let us know your thoughts and any related ideas in the comments below!

AUTHOR BIO

American artist Shea Winter Roggio is a documentary and fine art photographer. Shea Winter Photography LLC provides documentary, editorial and commercial photography services, along with video, television and film production services, and retails photographic souvenirs such as fine art prints, canvas and frames.