Whether you are using your professional DSLR/Mirrorless Camera or your phone, you can capture stunning imagery with a few simple considerations.
Location, Location, Location:
Landscape Photography is as much about planning, as it is about taking the photos. Take time to do your research of the area ahead of time. On the day, walk the location and find the right angles and composition that speaks to you.
Time of Day:
The best time of day to shoot is “Golden Hour”. As the sun sets, the light grows softer and is not as harsh. Colors are vibrant and contrast is greater. If you would prefer brighter high noon light for your landscapes, consider how best to position the camera in relation to your subject to minimize lens flare.
Consult Your Equipment:
Having a Tripod will allow you to capture the highest quality landscapes as it will stabilize your shots. This will allow you to try out HDR and long exposure techniques. Wide lenses will also give you the larger-than-life perspective. Polarizing and Graduated ND Filters can help with manipulating the available light and enhancing natural elements such as colors.
Maximize the Depth of Field:
Usually landscape photos require the foreground and background to be sharp, therefore a f8 or higher are utilized. With that said, a shallower depth of field can be a powerful creative tool. Try out many different apertures to accomplish your desired look.
Consider Composition: The “Rule-Of-Thirds” is sure way to aesthetically-pleasing imagery that is balanced and provides easy focus for your eye. Practice and train yourself with the Rule-of-Thirds, and then learn to break the rule. By purposefully breaking the rule, you can push your artistry.
GET CREATIVE:
- Create Perspective and Movement with People
- Take Advantage of Reflections: Photographing locations with calm smooth waters provide an added layer of symmetry.
- Change Your Vertical Focus: There is more to see beyond eye level, try getting to higher ground for a longer more vast perspective.
- Lengthen Your Exposure:
If you like the look of motion in your images, slow down your shutter speed (on a DSLR), set-up on a tripod, and allow a long exposure to blur the movement for dynamic shots that come alive!
Experiment and Get Out There!
We hope these tips help you capture your favorite spot! If you try any of them out, be sure to tag us @theunfounddoor so we can see them!