Landscape Photography 101 Part Two

Impressionistic landscape photographers usethe time of day can also affect the quality of
photographic techniques that result in images thatyour photo, as some plants and flowers bloom at
have elusive, surreal qualities. These photographsdifferent times.
may seem less tangible and more unreal thanMountains, most landscape photographers strive
other photographs, giving the impression of ato get as much of the mountain in the shot as
landscape rather than the tangible reality of one.possible, which requires a powerful zoom and
Representational, this style of photography resultsmagnification lens in most cases. Study the
in pictures that show realistic, natural scenery. Themountain carefully before you begin photographing
representational photographer uses no props,it, and look for interesting angles of shadow and
visual manipulation, or other components. Thislight, as well as the shape and contour of the
means that light, weather, and timing all play amountain itself.
crucial role in a successful representationalFields, ponds, and other open spaces when
photograph, as well as patience on the part of thephotographing these subjects, look for interesting
photographer.focal points on which to center your photographs
Abstract, in abstract landscape photography,around. Try to photograph them at times when
components of scenery are treated as graphicthere are few distractions, such as animals and
elements, and can be manipulated and rearrangedpeople present.
for composition purposes. Colors can e changed,As with all types of landscape photography, the
as well as the shape of natural structures.style that you choose when taking the
Choosing a Subject for Landscape Photography.photographs plays an important role in deciding
Plants and trees, many photographers recognizehow much artificial manipulation of the medium
the beauty and complexity of plants, trees, andyou should implement.
other flora, and strive to shoot them in theirLandscape photographs are wonderful records of
natural state, while others have no qualms aboutthe beauty of the natural world, and many people,
altering conditions around their subject in order tonot surprisingly prefer landscape photographs over
get the best photo possible.portraits and wildlife photos. From the simplest
When you are choosing plants or trees asleaf to the tallest redwood tree, and mountain
subjects for your landscape photographs,peak, nature has inspired generations of landscape
experiment with lighting and close, focused shotsphotographers, and will continue to do so for
as well as shots at a distance. Remember thatgenerations to come.