Keeping Landscapes Creative

Philosophy

Telling stories is the best way to use landscape photography! As you tell stories with your camera, you’ll have the opportunity to slow down, plan your storyline, and contemplate the details. It will be this habit that will have the greatest influence upon improving your photography and contributing to your success in this field!

Think about some of the crucial questions.

*What is it in the scene that gives you inspiration?

*Which elements drew your attention?

*What elements do you wish to preserve and replicate?

In contemplating the answers to these questions, consider the fact that truly beautiful scenes are rarely found next to the roadside. Instead, in order to take the most stunning scenes, you’ll need to be ready with map and equipment for hiking out to where you can view the amazing examples that will help you best find solutions to the above questions. In seeking the finest locations, you will have cultivated the habit and eye for the truly amazing scenes, determining the essential elements, and then be able to apply them to more difficult scenes.

Concepts for Landscapes

One simple concept that is extremely helpful in creating balance is dividing the scene into thirds, both horizontally and vertically. You can do this by using two vertical lines and two horizontal lines evenly spaced, but your horizon (or any other prominent line) should still fall on one of the two horizontal lines. Then, a general rule of symmetry would be to place your focal point on one of the four intersections created by these lines.

With balance in mind, you can now freely explore your creativity. Consider even chancing a portrait into a landscape by using an up-close image that falls on one of the four intersections. Then, by adding graphic elements such as lead-in lines or stunning backgrounds, you’ll be able to present your creativity while creating visual interest.

Equipment for Landscapes

While many believe that the trick to getting great landscape photographs is having the right lens or the proper setup, there are few successful images that won’t have either of these. These shots demonstrate that composition and creativity can determine a photo’s success more than anything else. Even with remarkable clarity, sharpness, and ideal lighting, the image can still utterly fail due to a lack of adequate composition and content.

Even though no special equipment is necessary for landscapes, you might find a few items helpful. First, a macro lens can help in capturing the smaller details. Then, a telephoto lens while practical for enhancing uninteresting backgrounds, will not be as essential as a tripod. (Without clarity, it won’t matter how interesting the background is)!

Next, a wide-angle lens is super for enhancing perspective options, as it will provide you with more latitude. Because of the framing options, you’ll even be able to crop out distracting features for better results. With just a couple basic ideas on equipment, you’ll be able to select what suits you best in creating unforgettable landscapes!

For more on elements, take a look at our blog.