Its Not Real Unless You Experience It.
Keep It Real Shut The Lid Get Out & Experience The Landscape
Landscape photography is a genre of photography that captures the natural beauty of the world around us. It can be anything from a sweeping mountain vista to a close-up of a dew-covered flower. While there are many different ways to approach landscape photography, one of the most important things is to capture the experience of being just there. I have been seeing a lot of posts on social media about AI (Artificial Intelligence) generated photographs. Although there stunning and just as valid a form of art or personal expression as any, they must never be confused with photography.
I want to share a few thoughts about what being a Landscape Photographer means to me, and why I wont hang up my walking boots any-time soon in favour of a keyboard.
It does not matter how you choose to share the landscape you see when you are in the great outdoors. Some prefer super-wide panoramas, while others prefer the macro world and a bugs eye view. It isnt important if you work with an 8x10 sheet film camera and stopwatch or the latest mirrorless offering on the market.
Out in nature, you are surrounded by beauty and wonder. You can feel the wind on your face, the sun on your skin, and the earth beneath your feet. You can hear the birds singing, the wind rustling through the leaves, and the waves crashing on the shore. You can smell the flowers in bloom, the fresh air, and the salt in the air. Savour in the first sip from a steaming mug of coffee (Maybe thats just me!)
The difference between AI and you is you. At the moment (Im being careful with my words) AI has no grasp of hot or cold the effort of hiking uphill for an hour in the dark at 4am. It does not feel, senses no loss if all the trees are cut down, and feels no pain if the oceans dry up. But you do
Every photograph you take should focus not only on the aesthetics but also on the experience, express what it is like to be there. That isnt easy and takes a far more considered approach to photography, but it is infinitely more rewarding. Maybe these tips will help.
It's important to spend time in the landscape. Don’t rush in and take a few shots, and then move on. Take the time to really experience the place you are photographing. Walk around, explore, and find the spots that speak to you. The more time you spend in the landscape, the more likely you will capture its essence in your photographs.
Be present in the moment. When you are out in nature, take the time to really appreciate the experience. Pay attention to the sights, sounds, smells, and textures around you.
Use your camera to express your own unique vision. Do not copy what other photographers have done. Find your own way to capture the beauty of the landscape, and share your personal experience with others. The best landscape photographs are the ones that are true to their own vision.
Standing Here I could Feel The Space and Enormity Of The World Spreading Out Before Me
Edit your photos carefully. Once you have taken your landscape photographs, take some time to edit them. Edit your images to exaggerate what excited you, to make your message stronger. Remain sympathetic to the landscape, don't turn into something it isnt. Going to far can destroy an image in seconds.
The most important thing is to love what you do and enjoy every moment. Stay away from the comparison game be true to yourself. Remember that not every image you see online was created in camera, not every image is a true reflection of the real world. So be careful not judge yourself against an imagined reality. Get out there and enjoy your photography.
For more thoughts on landscape photography and adventures from the real world visit my YouTube Channel.
