Top scenics/landscapes tips
- This topic has 5 replies, 6 voices, and was last updated Jun 23, 2009 at 5:40 pm by
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Like I said before, I continue to be thoroughly blown away by the talent here, and the landscape roll call thread did not disappoint. I am really excited to shoot out West during our trip!
That last thread and the shooting into light thread made me curious about what each of you would say were your top three tips for capturing compelling scenics. You each have your own shooting styles, so I bet your tips will not overlap much. If you’re interested in sharing, I’d love to hear what you’ve got to say. 🙂 Lots of great photographers to learn from here, and, since I am the consummate student, I’ll be taking notes. 😉
Lauren
Lauren–
Short and sweet.1. Wherever it is, be there when the the light is good. That means early or late, sun or storm, be committed to shooting when the light is best. 95% of the images people shoot are those of convenience, which is understandable because most wouldn’t want to make the sacrifices necessary to capture exceptional images if they weren’t doing it for a living. Once photography becomes less a thing of convenience, and more a thing of commitment, you will see your images rise to the next level.
2. Previsualize. When you hit the pillow the night before, create a “wish list” of perfect images you’d like to shoot that next day. Your brain will be more in tune once those opportunities present themselves. Don’t forget to have a plan B.
3. Learn how to properly expose in challenging situations. This means either understanding HDR or getting well acquainted with Grad ND filters (my preferred choice).
4. Had to add one more. Learn to compose in a way that engages the viewer. You want someone to WANT to sit there and study and revel in your image. This means capturing it with engaging textures, patterns, colors, shadows, light, lines, etc.
Guess that wasn’t so short and sweet…
Adam make some excellent points but I would add:
1. Use a tripod and get the camera out of your hands its a distraction. This will allow you to visualize you image in you minds eye and then place the camera in the appropriate position. The tripod will extend your shooting time both early and late and allow you to use a lower ASA setting. It opens up the opportunity for panoramic or HDR images and bracketed exposures.2. Go to the library or a gallery and study the landscape images of Ansel Adams, Edward Weston and Paul Strand. Nobody has seen or photographed landscapes any better than this trio. There are others that are as good but none better at photographing America.
3. Understand your equipment and practice setting it up so you can catch that once in a lifetime shot! When you come around a mountain and there is a great shot and the light is about to go you should be able to get your camera on the sticks in a hurry. Ansel Adams got one shot at Moonrise Hernandez and that was it forever but he was ready. The harder you work at photography the luckier you get.
Check this site out and sign up for his newsletter it would be a good place for a consummate student! http://www.johnpaulcaponigro.com/
Look for difference and for drama, stay away from the picture postcard scene.
Position your horizon thoughtfully.
Morsie
Ditto everything said so far, but I would reiterate Adam’s advice on shooting when the light is great.
Look for difference and for drama, stay away from the picture postcard scene.
Position your horizon thoughtfully.
Morsie
Well said! Keep it simple.
I would just add a couple things to that: Take your camera with you at all times and keep your eyes open. Try to discover what interests you visually and develop your style of conveying it photographically. Soon ones photos will look less pedestrian (which is okay, really) and morph into something way more personal and meaningful to both you AND the viewer.
Food for thought. 😕
Good luck and safe travels. Can’t wait to see what develops!
Doug
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