Photographing metaphors is an art that goes beyond the simple depiction of reality. Instead of showing what’s on the surface, it creates images that suggest, symbolize, and spark discussion. In this genre of photography, your perspective, memories, and inner world take shape—and the viewer gets the chance to work out what you’re trying to say, forming their own connection to your photography.  

In today’s fast-paced world, people often claim that a “good photo” is one that grabs your attention immediately. But what if you’re after something more? What if you don’t just want visually pleasing images, but want to convey an idea, evoke emotions, and give the viewer space for their own interpretation? Photography that uses visual metaphors offers exactly that: not only what can be seen, but what it means. 

1. What is a metaphor?

A metaphor expresses something deeper through a single image or word—a symbolic comparison. For example, rain is not just rain; it may represent sadness, purity, or transformation. In photography, a metaphor is a motif that isn’t just what you see, but also what it suggests.

2. Why metaphors make viewers think

When you use metaphors in photography, you don’t show everything directly. Instead, you leave part of the meaning open, hinting at a message without spelling it out. This pushes viewers to take an active role. They consider what you intended, what it symbolizes for them, and what emotional or intellectual story might lie beneath the surface. This process makes a photograph memorable, meaningful, and all the more powerful.  

3. Visual metaphors vs verbal metaphors 

A verbal metaphor is like when you say a “sea of thoughts,” a familiar phrase that the listener understands instantly. A visual metaphor, however, is more challenging to understand. It’s not a set expression, but a scene that triggers associations. Because a visual metaphor has no predefined meaning, the viewer must interpret it themselves. This creates space for personal meaning and an individual relationship with the image.  

4. Start with your own personal metaphor

The most personal photographs come from within. Draw on your memories, thoughts, dreams, and beliefs. It’s your photo—your view of the world. You don’t need to imitate trends or lean on popular symbols. Staying true to yourself is what makes your work authentic.  

These  photographs return to the theme of raising children in the 1980s and 1990s. 

5. Guide the viewer with clues 

Even though a metaphor should stay open to interpretation, you can gently guide the viewer using the photograph’s title, a short annotation, or a caption. A title can offer a hint, but it shouldn’t be a literal explanation of the metaphor.  

6. A series is more powerful 

A metaphorical photograph often has its strongest impact as part of a long-term series. A single image may be interesting, but a series lets you develop a theme, repeat symbols, build context, and deepen meaning. It encourages viewers to think about the whole and the themes behind your photography. 

Metaphors in photography aren’t just a phrase. They’re a way of thinking about your photos and giving viewers space to think as well. A photographic metaphor gives your work depth, symbolism, and greater meaning.