Nature Photography How To

Last week we featured the first of a two-part beginners guide to nature and wildlife photography from expert Janine Krayer—a photographer and instructor who spends much of her time teaching workshops and photographing exotic animals in the wilds of Africa.

Early in our talk, Sebastian Copeland mentions the relationship of art with nature, and how photographers who work outdoors end up loving the landscape and wanting to preserve the environment. He adds, “I’m fond of saying, ‘He who walks the land will become a warrior in its defense.’ It’s hard to venture into nature and the wild and appreciate the beauty of extraordinary landscapes and not feel a sense of responsibility to make sure they remain.”

Most experienced nature photographers will tell you that great light is the key to spectacular landscape photographs. But when Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate, it’s time to turn to compositional devices like the powerful “S Curve” if you don’t want to come home empty-handed.

Romanian nature photographer Toma Bonciu (AKA “Photo Tom”) is one of our favorite sources of quick and helpful videos for outdoor shooters. This episode is what you might call a “learning how to see” tutorial, that will also unburden you of carrying extra gear.

Jeff McPheeters is a Kansas-based pro whose extensive portfolio encompasses everything from interior design and event photography to landscape, nature and wildlife. While all of McPheeters’ work is impressive, the images he captures of raging storms in rural Kansas are especially spectacular.

Danish pro Mads Peter Iversen has spent years polishing his skills and developing a unique style of landscape photography. Like all accomplished photographers he’s made a few mistakes along the way, and in the video below he explains how to correct a common error so you don’t make it yourself.