Having a few square moments.

Lately I’ve been attracted to the square image once again. To me it reflects simplicity and minimalism. We know that Square format cameras have been around a long time. The first one was introduced by Rollei way back in 1929.
The square format seems to have gone in and out of fashion over the decades – and there’s no doubt there is a resurgence in popularity once again.

I think of the square format as the fine art photographer’s format. Here are some more reasons that I like the square format:

• My approach to composition has changed. Shapes become more prominent, there is little wasted space and the balance between the elements changes.
• The subject of composition within the square format is so interesting and you can toss the rules of thirds out.
• There’s something magical about the combination of black and white in the square format. Though I have not posted any of these at the moment.
• The square is very suitable for subjects like portraits, the nude, landscape, still life, architecture, details and abstracts. These are all artistic subjects, and they all work well in black and white – which is perhaps why the square format is popular with fine art photographers.
• It’s fun. I enjoy going through my old images and seeing which ones can be improved by cropping to the square format regularly.
• Unlike a rectangle, a square image has a natural sense of balance. A square is a very solid shape, especially compared to an upright rectangle.
• The strength of the square format is due to the fact that you use the space within the frame well. Leaving much room for experimentation.
  You are not restricted by the rules and can place the subject in various positions within the frame.