Posts Tagged ‘landscape photography’
Friday, September 30th, 2011
Autumn is coming soon to a region near you! We wanted to pull together a few examples for inspiration – and some tips to help you make the most of your time in the field.
This image taken from top of Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga National Park. We arrived just before sunrise, and Varina used a wide angle lens to capture the color in the sky before it faded. She bracketed the shot in order to capture the entire dynamic range, and then used our manual iHDR technique to combine three images.
Overcast skies are common this time of year, and they provide soft, even lighting – which is ideal for back-lighting fall leaves. Soft directional lighting lets the leaves glow without leaving them overexposed. Jay took this photograph off-trail at Liberty Park.
While enjoying the fall colors, don’t forget to notice the small details. Varina found these pretty leaves beside the trail. She stacked them to show the brilliant hues side by side. If you are shooting small details in bright sun, use a diffuser to soften the light.
We try to make the most of reflections at any time of year, but in the fall, they can be particularly beautiful. In this photograph from last year, Jay used the calm waters of Maroon Lake in Colorado to capture the reflection of the fall colors on the mountains. Jay choose NOT to use his circular polarizer filter because it would have minimized the reflections of the mountains and clouds.
And finally, make the most of Autumn’s beautiful skies! Changing weather conditions can mean quickly-changing skies. When the clouds put on a show, make sure you are ready to capture breathtaking fall color juxtaposed with dramatic skies!
Tips for Photographing Falls Colors
- Fall colors are easiest to photograph under a thin, even cloud cover. This provides soft overcast light that helps balance out the highlight and shadows. Soft, morning or evening light is beautiful as well – but controlling the dynamic range can be difficult.
- Don’t forget to notice the details – pay attention to water droplets on leaves, and the texture of bark on the trees.
- Use a circular polarizer to reduce scattered light and enhance Fall colors. This is especially effective when you are photographing wet leaves.
- When necessary, use a GND filter to balance the light. This will bring out the details in every part of the image.
- Look for reflections to enhance the colors of the fall images. Don’t use a circular polarizer when you are trying to capture reflections.
Jay Patel, with his wife Varina, are professional nature photographers and are frequent contributors at Naturephotographers.net. To see more of Varina's work, visit her website at photographybyvarina.com. Jay's website is here: jaypatelphotography.com.
Tags: autumn, fall, landscape photography, photography tips, Tutorials
Posted in Creativity, Landscape, Tips and Tricks | No Comments »
Monday, August 22nd, 2011
How often do you see photos posted in online forums or hanging in a gallery, accompanied by a description wherein the photographer recounts the miles hiked, grizzly bears fought off, violent storms encountered and years of preparation before they were finally able to create the image before you? I see it on a regular basis. Usually, I have no doubt about the authenticity of the story. Other times, the claims are a bit dubious. Regardless, a recent experience left me wondering whether the effort expended to create an image is somehow tied to the value viewers place on an image. Is a photograph made deep into an inhospitable wilderness more inherently valuable or artistic than an image where the greatest physical effort expended was simply pressing the shutter button?
The image you see above was not photographed in a wild and remote location. I didn’t backpack 30 miles wearing a 100 pound backpack in stinging rain with lightning crashing all around. No, all I did was pull to the side of I-80 so my son could go pee. I saw potential in the cracked mud, mountains and ominous sky so I casually strolled to my truck (in flip flops) where I reached in, grabbed my camera and tripod, then walked 30 feet to the very spot where this image was made. My biggest challenge was wrangling a persistent 2 year old who was intent on peering through the viewfinder and making his own photo while I tried to nail the composition before the fast moving storm in the distance was upon us.
I posted this image on flickr and, to date, it has received 793 views, 41 favorites and 21 comments after flickr added it to the explore page. If you’re familiar with flickr you’ll understand that 800 views is nothing compared to what truly popular images receive. For me, it’s a bunch. I didn’t mention that I made the photo mere feet from a busy interstate with cars and semis whizzing by at 80 MPH. I wonder if I had, would the photo have received so many likes and comments?
Read more about Bret and get info on his upcoming fall workshops here.
Tags: flickr, landscape photography
Posted in Commentary, Creativity, Landscape | 1 Comment »
Monday, February 28th, 2011
Over the years I’ve received much great advice that has contributed significantly to my growth as a photographer. While guiding a photographer last week who was only bitten by the photo bug a few months ago, I offered a simple piece of advice: “Sweep the edges of your viewfinder before making an exposure.” It was something I learned ten years ago while reading a “how-to” book published by Arizona Highways. At the end of the day I was happy to hear her say that she learned more during our few hours together than she had in several months on her own. I always find it rewarding to help other photographers learn and grow as artists.
On the drive home I began to reminisce about all the little nuggets of wisdom I’ve learned in the past eleven years. Some came from books, others from magazines and even more from other photographers. Regardless of their origin, each one has benefitted me in some way. Like many of you, I never want to stop learning. No doubt, the advice below is only the beginning of what will surely be an even longer list in another eleven years.
Sweep the Edges - Since I mentioned this one in the introduction to the article I thought I’d start off with it. It’s also one of my favorites and something I do every time I compose an image without even thinking about it. Very simply, once you have composed a scene in your viewfinder do one final visual sweep of the edges of the frame before depressing the shutter button. You’re looking for little distractions. It might be a branch intruding into the frame, a bright spot in a corner or even the foot of your tripod creeping into the bottom of your composition. This will also force you to slow down and spend more time crafting a deliberate composition.
Don’t Forget to Turn Around - I read this very early in my career in a “how-to” book published by Arizona Highways that seems to have been discontinued. The author’s point is simple: no matter how awesome the scene before you is, always remember to glance over your shoulder because it just might be even better behind you. I follow this advice on nearly every photography outing and it has netted me some of my favorite images.
Don’t Forget to Look Down - I learned this lesson while viewing Tom Till’s image of colorful desert wildflowers pushing through cracks in mud. The placard next to it explained that while Tom was photographing a grand landscape he happened to look down and found a scene far more original and interesting than the one he had intended to photograph. You just never know what you’ll find if you keep an open mind!
Include People in Your Photos - This one certainly won’t apply to everyone. However, it’s a valuable tidbit of advice that has certainly been favorable to my bank account. My good friend Todd Caudle, who has been one of the most generous and inspirational pro’s for the entire length of my career, is responsible for this one. While photographing wildflowers at Lost Dutchman State Park about ten years ago, Todd suggested that I consider including people in my photos. Todd suggested that photographing my girlfriend at the time while hiking, climbing, canyoneering and mountain biking would open doors to some of the outdoor magazines. I didn’t take his advice seriously until I met my wife, Melissa, a few years later. It’s a shame I waited. Had I immediately began following Todd’s advice I surely would have been published much sooner.
Look For and Exploit Reflected Light - We’ve all seen photos of Antelope Canyon’s sculpted walls glowing neon with reflected light. Until I gathered this piece of advice from uber-talented photographer and friend Guy Tal, I wasn’t aware that reflected light was so prevalent in nature. And, it even happens on a grand scale. Clouds reflect light back down on to the landscape and massive cliffs bounce light all the way across the Colorado River canyon near Moab. Snow reflects light into shadows. Once you learn to identify reflected light you can easily use it to your advantage – even when photographing in mid-day.
Don’t Immediately Set Up Your Tripod - I can’t remember where I learned this but it’s made a huge difference in the quality of my compositions. Upon arriving at a location spend some time exploring the area before you plant your tripod. Experiment with different vantage points. Try getting low to the ground or finding an elevated perch. Maybe you’d originally intended to go wide angle but a more interesting scene in the distance demands a telephoto? Even a few steps to the left or right of you’re standing could make a dramatic difference.
Bad Weather = Good Photography - Another great piece of advice whose origin escapes me. Bad weather often creates the most dynamic conditions for photography. Menacing clouds, storm light, fog, rain and snow can all contribute to amazing photography. Or they can flat out suck. That’s the chance you take when you wander out on a stormy day to make photographs. But instead of bemoaning the fact that rain is in the forecast, get excited by it. Overcast? You couldn’t ask for better light for intimate landscapes. Fog? If it’s winter you might find hoar frost. Summer? Look for features in the landscape playing hide and seek behind a veil of fog.
Adapt to the Conditions - This one ties in nicely with the one above. Most of us have probably taken a trip to a far off location with the intent of photographing our hearts out only to find lousy weather upon our arrival. There is always something to photograph. It may not be what you came for, but if you stay positive and learn to adapt you will be able to make images. I don’t remember where this one came from but it’s advice I’ve learned to follow. Bonus: Not only do I get to make photos regardless of the conditions, but I’m much happier and less stressed out, too.
A Bad Day in the Mountains is Better Than a Good Day in the Office - This one comes to us from Todd Caudle. And you know what? He’s right. Wouldn’t you rather hike ten miles into the mountains to photograph sunrise at an alpine lake only to be defeated by a dull gray overcast than spend one stinkin’ minute staring at your computer monitor? I would. I will add one small caveat: A bad day in the mountains is better than a good day in the office – so long as you don’t have to cut off your own arm!
Certainly you’ve all received some sage advice over the years. Why not share it with us in the comments section below? I, for one, am always open to good advice!.
Learn more about Bret, view his images, scout his workshops and read his blog here.
Tags: arizona highways, guy tal, landscape photography, Nature Photography, photography advice, techniques, todd caudle, tom till
Posted in Uncategorized | 1 Comment »
Thursday, June 24th, 2010
There are two types of outdoor photographers: those who need help getting to the right place at the right time and those who don’t. If you are of the latter persuasion, you can stop reading now. Really, I mean it…stop reading. Okay, that’s better. For the rest of you, let’s spend some time discussing just what to expect when you hire a photography guide.
The business of guiding outdoor photographers isn’t new. However, in the past few years guiding has experienced significant growth. I blame it on the digital revolution – everyone has a camera and almost everyone is a photographer. I have seen guides advertised in Outdoor Photographer and all over the internet who are available to lead you on a private photo tour in just about every state. But what can they do for you?
What Do Photo Guides Do and How Much Do They Charge?
What a guide does and how much they charge for their services varies tremendously. One thing almost all of them have in common is that you can usually depend on them to lead you to the right place at the right time. Some guides service only iconic locations while others will spend several days backpacking with you in remote and forbidding territory. Some guides offer personal instruction, image critiques, portfolio reviews, digital darkroom tutorials, and more. Guide fees are all over the board and may range from $150/day to more than $2,500/day with a prominent photographer. Surely the more you pay the better the guide, right? Nope. Not even close. In my research it seems that $300 to $500/day is the average going rate. Generally speaking, paying more than that buys you the opportunity to rub shoulders with a heavy hitter.
How Do I Know What I’m Getting For My Money?
This is easy – just ask ‘em. It’s your money and you deserve to know what you’re paying for. Check out their websites for details about their services. If you don’t find what you’re looking for there don’t hesitate to send an email or give them a call. Ask questions. What does the guide fee cover? Park entry fees, transportation, meals/snacks? Will they be available to answer your questions or will they show you where to set up your tripod and then disappear to make their own images? It isn’t necessarily a bad thing if they plan to break out their camera. I’ve often had clients tell me that they learned a lot watching me work. But, I think it’s important for you, the client, to know what to expect on your guided tour. Perhaps even more important, if you expect your guide to never leave your side you should tell them so. Successful guides have mastered the art of managing expectations.
How Do I Know If The Guide I’d Like To Hire Is Any Good?
Check their website for testimonials. Sure, they could be faked but at least it’s a good start. If you’re still not convinced, ask the guide if you can contact a prior customer or two. If he balks at that idea I’d have to wonder why. Perhaps a phone conversation with the guide may help to ease your mind. Spending all day with someone with whom you have a major personality clash pretty much sucks. It sucks even more when you’re paying them.
What Will The Schedule Be Like?
Excellent question! Most guides offer full or half day tours. Find out what that means. Does a full day tour mean you’re in the field from sunrise to sunset? Will there be a break during mid-day? I always build in a break to allow us both to recharge batteries (both literally and metaphorically), download images, eat and relax. Not all guides do this. If you need or want a break, be sure to relay that information to your guide. On the other hand, if you expect to be in the field the entire day, be sure to tell your guide that, too.
Does “Private” Mean It’s Just Me?
Don’t automatically assume it’ll just be you and your guide. Some guides only do small group tours. It would suck to show up thinking you will have the guide’s undivided attention only to discover there are 2 or 3 strangers tagging along. Often this information can be obtained on their website. When it isn’t spelled out there, call or email them.
Is My Guide Legit?
This is a big one, in my opinion. The Feds require that anyone operating commercially on their property do so with a permit in hand. National parks, BLM, Forest Service or national monument – they are all regulated to some degree. Find out if your guide has the proper permits. Being permitted also means that he will be carrying liability insurance and most likely, a first aid and CPR certification.
While we’re on the topic, help your guide plan a productive and fun trip by telling him if you have any medical issues or physical limitations. You don’t want your guide planning a lengthy hike if you aren’t capable of completing it. A good guide can and will customize the tour to your interests and abilities.
Why Should I Hire A Guide?
I’m a pretty independent dude. When I’m traveling somewhere new I research the living daylights out of the place until I have a pretty firm grasp on how to photograph the area. It’s a time intensive process and I’m not always successful. Usually, but not always. I’ll be posting an article soon on what I do to prepare for a trip, so check back often so you don’t miss that post.
But, what if you don’t have the time or interest in doing all that research? Hiring a guide can be a great way to ensure that you are maximizing your time on the ground at a new location. Guides should be intimately familiar with the areas in which they operate. This is important because as the seasons change, so do the photo opportunities. For example, if you come to Arches in April to photograph the Three Gossips you might be really disappointed to find them completely in the shadow of The Organ until well after sunrise. A knowledgeable guide would know this and be able to steer you in the right direction.
Although not a critical point, it’s always nice to work with a guide who is, on some level, a naturalist. If he knows a little bit about the flora, fauna, history and geology of the area it will certainly make your trip more enjoyable.
A guided photo tour can be an excellent way to best experience a new area through your camera’s viewfinder. With these tips in mind I’m confident you’re fully prepared to make the most of your private guided photo tour. If you’re interested in learning more about my services, I invite you to visit the Moab Photo Workshops website.
You can learn more about Bret, view his wonderful images, read his blog here: Bret Edge Photography
You can find out more about Bret's workshops here: Moab Photo Workshops
Tags: Bret Edge, guides, landscape photography, photo guide
Posted in Articles, Commentary, Tips and Tricks | No Comments »
Monday, June 21st, 2010
Reposted with permission from the Induro blog.
Professionally, one of my most important pieces of equipment is my tripod. It took me several years before I started using a tripod for all my photography and it was one of the biggest ‘ah-ha’ moments I’ve had since becoming a photographer nearly twenty years ago. In those twenty years I’ve had more than my share of tripods. Early on, I never fully appreciated the importance of quality when it came to tripods, and subsequently went through more than my share of tripods. I tell a story of a tripod I broke before I ever got it out of the car to use. Over time, my trials have taught me the importance of a quality tripod. It is literally the foundation for all good landscape photography.
©Brian Rueb
I recently conducted a workshop and shoot in the Columbia River Gorge of Oregon. This type of environment throws everything at you, and there is no better way to test the durability of a tripod. Water, mud, rugged terrain—this area has it all. I’m using an Induro Carbon Fiber 213 and BHD2 Ballhead. The first thing I appreciate when photographing in an environment like this is the weight. My whole tripod weighs less than 5 pounds. When you’re walking mile upon mile up steep trails, and down slippery mossy rock slopes, the last thing you want is extra weight. Most new cameras weigh enough as it is.
©Brian Rueb
Induro tripods also come with durable foot pegs that work perfectly in extreme environments such as this. Whether in the mud, on slick rock surfaces, or in rare instances on flat ground, the tripod worked like a charm, and held firm. Most tripod pegs aren’t removable, and it’s a constant struggle to make sure you’re screwing out the pegs properly, and the pegs just don’t have a rugged feel to them. The Induro pegs are hearty, to be sure. One photographer in my group commented, “Looks like you could kill a bear with those things.” They’re tough and they work, although I haven’t had to use them on any bears yet.
©Brian Rueb
My style of photography involves immersing myself and my gear in rivers, streams, and the ocean. The 213 worked great! Even when the current of the creek was racing, I had great stability for my camera. One instance that comes to mind was a long hike I made into a remote section of the Gorge where the best way to capture the image I had in mind was from in the middle of the creek. I spent roughly 45 minutes with the tripod in the water
©Brian Rueb
I was very pleased with how well the legs continued to open and close even after being submerged. This doesn’t mean tripods still don’t need to be properly wiped and dried when the day is done, but it worked brilliantly through that morning, as well as the duration of the trip. For this trip I hiked over 20 miles and saw eleven different waterfalls, which required me getting in the water to photograph most of them.
©Brian Rueb
I put my gear through a lot, and I really expect a lot out of it. The 213 performed at a high level throughout. A shoot like this puts a tripod through a tremendous amount of work. The last thing any photographer wants is to worry more about gear than creating images. My Induro never left me feeling let down, or worried when making my shots. I just hope I don’t run into any bears.
Brian Rueb is a professional landscape and wildlife photographer living in Northern California. When he is not in the field or spending time with his family, he teaches infield workshops with the Aperture Academy, and this summer will spend 65-days photographing the beauty of Iceland, where he will confidently put his Induro Tripod through extreme conditions of every kind, and, most likely, not have to kill a bear. You can follow his journey here.
See Induro tripods and other products in the OPG store here.
Tags: Brian Rueb, induro, landscape photography, Outdoor Photography
Posted in Articles, Featured Products, Landscape | No Comments »
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On Image Value and Effort
Monday, August 22nd, 2011How often do you see photos posted in online forums or hanging in a gallery, accompanied by a description wherein the photographer recounts the miles hiked, grizzly bears fought off, violent storms encountered and years of preparation before they were finally able to create the image before you? I see it on a regular basis. Usually, I have no doubt about the authenticity of the story. Other times, the claims are a bit dubious. Regardless, a recent experience left me wondering whether the effort expended to create an image is somehow tied to the value viewers place on an image. Is a photograph made deep into an inhospitable wilderness more inherently valuable or artistic than an image where the greatest physical effort expended was simply pressing the shutter button?
The image you see above was not photographed in a wild and remote location. I didn’t backpack 30 miles wearing a 100 pound backpack in stinging rain with lightning crashing all around. No, all I did was pull to the side of I-80 so my son could go pee. I saw potential in the cracked mud, mountains and ominous sky so I casually strolled to my truck (in flip flops) where I reached in, grabbed my camera and tripod, then walked 30 feet to the very spot where this image was made. My biggest challenge was wrangling a persistent 2 year old who was intent on peering through the viewfinder and making his own photo while I tried to nail the composition before the fast moving storm in the distance was upon us.
I posted this image on flickr and, to date, it has received 793 views, 41 favorites and 21 comments after flickr added it to the explore page. If you’re familiar with flickr you’ll understand that 800 views is nothing compared to what truly popular images receive. For me, it’s a bunch. I didn’t mention that I made the photo mere feet from a busy interstate with cars and semis whizzing by at 80 MPH. I wonder if I had, would the photo have received so many likes and comments?
Read more about Bret and get info on his upcoming fall workshops here.
Tags: flickr, landscape photography
Posted in Commentary, Creativity, Landscape | 1 Comment »