Nature Photography How To

Most photographers probably think they know their cameras pretty well at this point. So why then do our photos come out, shall we say, less than sharp sometimes?

Everyone always talks about "the rule of thirds" being the key to composing a compelling image. And yes, it is a helpful tool to get you out of the boring photo rut. But what if there was something different and more effective to help with appealing photo composition?

There’s a common misconception that all you need for landscape photography is a good wide-angle lens. And while it’s true that a wide perspective is great for capturing expansive vistas, experienced shooters know that short telephoto lenses are also important for landscape photography.

Ben Horne is an accomplished nature photographer who says his goal “is to create simple, structured, and calm images of nature.” In the video below, Horne takes you to scenic Death Valley and provides some great tips on shooting landscapes.

French photographer Serge Ramelli is a favorite among Shutterbug readers, not only because of his incredible landscape and cityscape imagery, but also for his helpful tutorials on shooting and editing nature photos. If you’d like to emulate Ramelli’s work, or just improve your particular style, check out the video below.

If you’re turned off by the idea of “photo hacks” because you assume it involves something gimmicky, this tutorial will quickly change your mind. Even better, you’ll see how a simple tactic can change your landscape photography forever.

Last May we reported on an unfortunate incident in which three photographers were taken into custody for walking on the Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park and waterskiing behind an RV on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. Now the three have been convicted with two of the bunch facing jail time.