WIN! A NIKON Z 50

The search for the world’s best Nikon photographer of 2020 continues! Each issue the monthly N-photo POTY 2020 photo contest’s top 10 images are selected by the N-photo team. This issue’s competition has the theme of minimalist photography.

1. Sorrento Style

BY IAN HOWARD

This image was shot at 200mm from a high vantage point. Adobe CC was used to fine-tune the composition, and the result is a perfectly framed photo. The location is a boardwalk in Sorrento, Italy, and the quality black-and-white conversion was performed using the Silver Efex Pro plugin. The rich contrast really makes the image stand out and amplifies the highlights, conveying the intense heat.

2. Leading Lines

BY DA MIANE

This stunning image is proof that you can take professional-quality photos with entry-level gear, as it was shot on the humble Nikon D3100. Its geometric details have been framed perfectly, and the blue bannister leads the viewer’s eye towards the human subject. The angular patch of sunlight adds interest, while mimicking the strong, angular lines found throughout the photograph.

3. Symmetrical Illusion

BY EDYTA RICE

This image of the Low Lighthouse at Burnham-onsea is a classic long-exposure. The sky is a melting pot of warm, vibrant colours that contrast with the simplistic white structure. A two-second exposure was used to smooth out the water and create the mirror-like effect.

4. Calla Lily

BY ISOTTA CODA ZABETTA

This image is an ode to famed New York photographer Robert Mapplethorpe and his work with flowers. The single subject, subtle lighting, simple black and white colouring, and ample negative space tick all the minimalist boxes. The faint shadow hitting the background is a clever touch and was intentionally placed there to provide the image with a sense of depth.

5. Scale

BY DIRK VONTEN

The great composition and beautiful lighting only tells half the story. The addition of the human figure really makes this image something special by adding a truly imposing sense of scale.

6. The Pontoon

BY HOWARD SUMNER

This long-exposure monochrome image is about as clean as a photograph can get. A superb shot.

7. Triangle of Trees

BY DAVIDE BERETTA

This surreal shot was taken in the Dolomites. Subtle blue hues complement the cold scene, and faint lines in the powder create the illusion of movement.

8. Lost

BY ANDRÉ NEVES

This image was taken in the Maldives. The peninsula makes it look like the man is walking on water, while the tiny subject amplifies the dramatic sky.

9. Snow

BY NATALIA POLOMINA

This monochrome image is a portrait masterclass. The simple background and clothing draws the eye towards the subject’s evenly lit face. Catchlights frame and complement the eyes, and the subject’s passive expression adds a layer of mystery. Finally, by obscuring the subject’s hair the image has been made much cleaner; a hallmark of minimalism.

10. Under the Bridge

BY ROBERT ATLAS

London’s Camden Town is a haven for street photographers. This image is a great candid capture. The sun highlights the subject, while the dark shadow creates plenty of negative space.