1. Straight Photography: Abbott embraced a straightforward and objective approach to photography. This meant avoiding manipulation or special effects, aiming to capture reality as faithfully as possible. Her work emphasized sharp detail, clarity, and the directness of the subject matter.
2. Use of Large Format Cameras: Abbott often employed large format cameras, such as the 8x10 view camera. These cameras allowed for precise framing and focusing, producing high-resolution negatives that yielded detailed prints.
3. High Contrast: Abbott's work often featured high contrast, emphasizing the interplay of light and shadow. This technique added drama and depth to her images, highlighting the textures and shapes within the scene.
4. Careful Composition: Abbott was meticulous in her composition, ensuring balance and harmony in her images. She understood the principles of design and used them to create visually compelling and engaging photographs.
5. Documentary Photography: Much of Abbott's work falls under the category of documentary photography, focusing on capturing the lives and environments of ordinary people. Her photographs often document the changing urban landscape, the lives of working-class people, and the architecture of New York City.
6. Archival Practice: Beyond her photography, Abbott was a dedicated advocate for archival practices and the preservation of photographic history. She meticulously documented her work and the work of others, ensuring that future generations could access and appreciate these images.
Specific Techniques:
* Using light and shadow: As mentioned above, Abbott used high contrast to great effect, exploiting natural light and strategically placing her subjects in relation to light sources to achieve a dramatic visual impact.
* Using a tripod: Abbott was a proponent of using a tripod for stability and precision, which allowed her to meticulously frame her shots.
* Focusing on detail: Her sharp images often revealed minute details, whether in the textures of buildings, the expressions of people, or the worn surfaces of everyday objects.
While Abbott's work is rooted in realism and objectivity, it is not devoid of artistic expression. Through her careful selection of subjects, her keen eye for detail, and her masterful use of light and shadow, she created photographs that are both powerful and evocative.