One has to reflect and understand your own practice in terms of the theory and critical review of photography to be informed and have context.
With abstraction, there is a myriad of different processes which are used to form a body of work. I have found that the key part is to explore the work of peers such as Bill Armstrong with abstract images such as the Mandala series, and Pep Ventosa with his multiple exposure images, to understand what the methods are and to evaluate these for the production of work. Once the process is understood it is possible to utilise the informed process for one’s own application.
A study of the practitioners who operate in the area of light or image manipulation is one aspect to inform the work but the theory and history of photography collide with the more traditional art mediums of to provide more context to the work.
Until recently the well defined intent has been lacking within the practice but recent events have lead to intent becoming more crystalized. However, even with intent more well defined in words it still follows that this is about the viewer.
I have found that the reflection of practice simple when it comes to image selection. The image has worked or not for me, and hours of further time will not produce a result, so I do not overthink the choice which is key. If the image does not advance my intentions or brings anything new or more then it is deleted. There is discernment undertaken looking between different images which may be different technical methods. That is to say that both images may well be the best in the style or method I have tried but if the style does not suit then even that good one will be rejected.
