Landscapes

What makes a landscape photograph great?  I have been thinking about this a lot lately.  I have a real desire to master this area of photography and so it is natural to try to understand the difference between a competent landscape image and a truly stunning landscape photograph.  Obviously I want to be creating the latter.

The rules of design and photography remain the same for landscape photography as they do for any other branch of the art-form.  Balance, rhythm, proportion, dominance and unity are still the important principles.  The elements of color, contrast, value, texture, line and shape are still the tools we use to "design" the imagery.  So what makes a landscape image great?

Anyone?

Spring!

Spring is almost here! I can tell because the sun is shining, Crocus' are popping out and every morning I am awakened by an absolute cacophony of amorous birds. Every day I wake up and wonder if this is the day I can skip the jacket. Unfortunately that time has not quite come yet and I have to go dig some extra covering out of the closet. Which sucks.

Spring is a transitional time of year. Everything is changing, becoming and being reborn. I noticed that even with people the creative sparks are flying, attitudes are more positive and of course, love is in the air. Why is that? Are we just tired of winter? That could be it actually. One fact is undeniable, and that is the potency of spring.

So why are these transitional times so filled with energy? Whether it is the dawn or the sunset, the spring or fall, there seems to be a wonderful potential, an energy that bursts forth out of transitional moments. I think very likely it does not matter why. What matters is that we recognize the potential and maximize it!

:)

Welcome to my first blog ... here. :D

There is an important part of photography that doesn't get talked about much that I'd like to address today. This is an element that will dramatically improve your skills and the overall quality of your images.

I'm not talking about composition, lens quality, color or exposure. I'm not talking about long lens technique, stance or equipment.

I'm talking about being there! The odds of taking great images increase dramatically as you get yourself out the door and actively engaged in taking pictures. Simple concept right? I am shocked at how long I'll fiddle on the computer or watch TV (essentially doing nothing) when I could be out getting my best shot ever!

Now don't confuse what I'm saying with the "Spray and Pray Method." I'm not talking about shooting tons of pictures with the idea that at least one will turn out. I'm talking about getting out more often to take some good pictures.

Have you ever wondered how the great wildlife photographers get those amazing shots? Undeniably their high end gear helps, and so does their technical and artistic expertise. A lot of what makes them successful though is that they stay in the game. They are out there as often as they can doing and seeing. They see the great shot because they are out there when it happens.

So get out there and spend some time where the action is!