Tips on Taking Landscape Photography

There is some dispute as to what constitutes “landscape” in photography; some argue that there can be no wildlife or people in the shot, and that cityscapes and seascapes belong in their own categories. However, most people accept any photograph in which natural features are the focus as “landscape,” even if a man-made structure or one of the other elements mentioned above happen to be present. Regardless of how it is defined, there are some general tips which will improve your landscape photos.

There are three types of landscape photographs: representational, impressionistic, and abstract. Each of these styles emphasizes different elements and techniques to communicate their message, but the following tips will improve your landscape photos, no matter the style you choose:

Eliminate “unnatural” features, such as fire hydrants, powerlines and telephone wires, and the like.

Lighting makes all the difference in landscapes. You may have to wait for just the right time, but it is worth it.

Do not perfectly center the horizon or features. While some pictures benefit from a “center of interest,” and landscape photos are no different, forcing such elements slightly off-center creates a better composition.

Turn off your camera's flash when shooting landscapes, unless you need to illuminate an object in the foreground.

Slow the shutter speed to photograph moving objects – such as running water or rushing leaves – to create a slight blur.

Lines are crucial to landscapes, especially horizontal lines. Seek congruous patterns to create good flow, composition, and arrangement.

Online photography degrees are available. Take advantage of these courses.

Tips on taking landscape photography, such as those outlined above, can be found online, as well as in many reference works. While some techniques are better-suited to specific styles, guidelines on composition, lighting, and similar aspects are useful for all your photographs. Courses and online photography degrees are available, and have a lot to offer. The more you know about landscapes and photography, the better your landscape photos will be.

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