How to Photograph Landscapes

Good photography techniques can enable you to capture stunning shots in the surrounding landscape environment. Below are some tips on how to photograph landscapes.

One important rule in landscape photography is to ensure that as much of your scene is in focus as possible. An easy way to do this is by choosing a small aperture setting with a large number, as this will provide your shots with a greater depth of field. Think carefully about the foreground of your shot and place the points of interest in them. This way, you provide those viewing the photograph a way into your image, while also providing the image itself with a sense of depth.

It is important to use a tripod when taking landscape shots as this helps to ensure that your camera remains completely still during exposure. Remember that because you will be using a small aperture, you will have a longer shutter speed which requires complete stillness. For added stillness of your camera, you should consider using a cable or wireless mechanism for shutter release.

Every good shot will have a focal point. A landscape photograph without a focal point will end up looking rather empty and leave your viewer's eye wandering through the image without a place to rest, and therefore moving on fast. For your focal point, you could have a building or structure, a boulder, striking tree, silhouette or rock formation. Ensure that you apply the rule of thirds to properly position your focal point.

The sky is also an important consideration in landscape photography. To avoid a boring shot, make sure that you have either a dominant foreground or sky. Do not allow a bland, boring sky to dominate your shot. Always ensure that your foreground is interesting. However, if the sky is filled with dramatic cloud formations and interesting colors, allow it to stand out by placing the horizon lower down. You may also enhance your skies during post production or by using filters that add contrast and color to your shot.

A great way to lead the eye of your viewer is by providing them with lines that lead to an image. With lines, your image ends up with depth, scale and can also serve as a point of interest by creating patterns in your photograph. Try and capture movement in your landscape shot so as to add drama, mood and create a point of interest. Good examples of these include waves on the beach, wind in the trees, as well as flowing water over a waterfall.

For more information on photography, please visit: http://www.photography-tips-and-resources.com/.

Joan One is a freelance journalist and creative writer who immensely enjoys writing and researching into any topic under the Sun. She specializes in writing "green" eco-friendly topics aimed at enabling environmentally conscious readers to find simple ways to reduce their carbon footprint and help save our planet.


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