Reframing Reality The Art of Seeing Differently with Deborah Loeb Bohren

If you have ever felt the urge to move beyond simply documenting the world and start interpreting it, this two-part series on abstraction is for you. Join award-winning photographer Deborah Loeb Bohren as she charts her fascinating evolution from traditional representation to the freedom of abstract photography. Across two sessions, she will explore the art and science that underlies the creation of successful abstract images.

Part 1: A Journey from Reality to Abstraction (27th May)

• A New Way of Seeing: Deb will discuss how abstraction demands a different way of seeing and thinking, explaining why she was drawn to it and how it challenges reality.

• In-Camera Artistry: Discover the specific techniques Deb uses to paint with light, including Intentional Camera Movement (ICM), multiple exposure and minimalism.

• The Creative Catalyst: Hear how travel challenged her to capture iconic places in unique ways, and how the pause during Covid gave her the space to fully immerse herself in the language of abstraction.

• Reimagining the World: You will leave with insight into her process and the inspiration to reimagine the world with your own camera.

Part 2: The Art & Science of Thinking Abstractly (15th July)

• The Science of Composition: Deb explores the role of the elements and principles of design in abstraction, examining how concepts like colour, line, shape and texture function to create compelling imagery.

• Psychology of Vision: Discover how Gestalt psychology influences the way we perceive compositions and how you can leverage this to improve your work.

• A Shift in Thinking: Deb discusses how abstraction challenges photographers to think differently, pushing them beyond traditional ways of seeing and composing images.

• Visual Toolkit: Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned photographer, you will gain a toolkit for thinking abstractly with your camera.

About Deborah: The offspring of two photographers, Deb was raised in a darkroom and believes her passion for photography is imprinted on her DNA. After a 30-year corporate career, she had an epiphany in 2012 that led her to pursue photography full-time. She describes her work as visual alchemy, using the camera like a paintbrush to transform light, colour and line into abstract art.

Her unique vision has earned her significant acclaim, including 1st Place in the 14th Annual International Color Awards (Professional/Abstract category) for her piece Homage to the Cubists in Paris. Her work has been exhibited internationally, including at Soho Photo Gallery in New York and the Horsebridge Arts Centre in Whitstable, Kent.

Beyond her personal work, Deb is a frequent judge and guest presenter for camera clubs across the US and England. She also leads international travel photography workshops in London, Paris and Lisbon through her venture The Traveling Lens and chronicles her adventures as a contributing editor for Everett Potter’s Travel Report.

From Mark:

I am absolutely thrilled to welcome Deb to Camversation. What I love about her approach is that she views her work as visual alchemy. This series is a fantastic opportunity to get inside the head of an artist who has successfully made the leap from traditional representation to expressive abstract art. I love it when we get a bit geeky about composition. This is not just about taking good photos; it is about the science of why they work. Deb breaks down the mechanics of design and psychology in a way that will genuinely change how you frame your next abstract shot and she is here to help you do the same!