Minimatica Free WordPress Theme

Although the Unofficial Minimatica Users Guide describes how to set up a Minimatica themed WordPress site similar to GregAitkenheadPhotography, my photography portfolio, you should be able to modify these instructions to create a look that fits your needs.  I highly recommend using the Minimatica Support Forums–the members there are courteous and helpful, and usually answer your questions quickly.  Daniel, Minimatica’s creator, weighs in on occasion, and the community seems healthy and supportive.

Initial Setup

1. If you have already set up a hosting plan, registered a domain name, and installed WordPress onto that website, you can skip to step 3.  I’ll run through the process of setting up a site quickly.  I use Dreamhost–they don’t offer the cheapest hosting, but I like their intuitive control panel and their reliable service.  If this is your first attempt to set up a website, I highly recommend reading Lifehacker’s Night School series on How To Make A Web Site, especially Lifehacker Night School Part IV: Choosing a Host and Launching Your Site.
2. For this demonstration I’m creating a sub-domain called “test.”  In the Dreamhost panel go to Manage Domains>>Add New Domain/Sub-Domain, create a name for your test site (such as “test.mydomain.com”).  Then click on Goodies>>One-Click Installs.  Click the WordPress icon and choose “Custom Installation,” picked the domain that you just created from the dropdown list, and then let it automatically create a database.  (I have since switched to testing WordPress websites locally on my Mac using MAMP.)
3. Login to your new WordPress website using the link provided in the WordPress confirmation email.
4. To add the Minimatica theme to the new WordPress installation, navigate to Appearance>>Install Themes>>and search for “Minimatica.”

Now that you’re in the game, its time to put together a minimalistic WordPress website to showcase you’re photography.  Minimatica acts like a static home page with dynamic flash elements–the perfect platform to get your website off the ground.

Next: The Front Page Slider, Featured Images, and Thumbnail Galleries