Seeking landscape tips
I'm new to landscapes and am used to shooting very tight bird shots. I just bought a Tokina 12-24 for the upcoming Glacier National Shootout and I want to train for the big event.
Learning what hyperfocal distance and how to set it properly seems like an important technique to master.
I'm looking for practical tips or lessons to help me get used to ultra-wide angle shooting, rather than my usual fumbling around and hoping for good results.
Anyone able to give me a nudge in the right direction?
Learning what hyperfocal distance and how to set it properly seems like an important technique to master.
I'm looking for practical tips or lessons to help me get used to ultra-wide angle shooting, rather than my usual fumbling around and hoping for good results.
Anyone able to give me a nudge in the right direction?
0
Comments
Take your time. Good composition, while always important, seems especially critical in landscapes. Maybe because 'anyone' can (and does) take a picture of a landscape, the quality needs to be higher. People seem to be more forgiving of moving nature shots (birds, lions, kids) because the photog has less control over those subjects. Don't forget the rule of thirds!
Look for opportunities for introducing scale and/or perspective, especially ones people haven't seen before. On my trip to the North Rim, the California Condors were out. I got several shots, but missed some opportunities to show them in comparison to the canyon. They either are in the sky, or look like crows.
Good luck and have fun! The shootout has some great folks going and I'm sure they will be of help. Hopefully Marc Muench chimes in here also.
-Fleetwood Mac
First off, I have a difficult time capturing good wildlife images while shooting landscapes as there is unique "heavy" equipment needed for capturing the wildlife and not to mention you tend to follow the subject no matter where it takes you. This is opposite of the way I approach finding landscape images. I place myself in a location where the subject is all around me and then follow the light. I carry one bag with just enough equipment to get by. That way I am able to move when the light is changing.
This wide zoom will simply be one tool of several when approaching the landscape. I don't suggest you go out an purchase several additional lenses, but longer focal length options are always in my bag, at least up to 200mm with a full size sensor.
Yes indeed hyperfocal length settings are not easy especially now with zoom lenses! However, with a wide like the 12mm, F 8 and shoot works well
The wide shots are not easy
Definitely shoot various points of view hand held until you understand what compositions work well before you begin using a tripod. This will help you become more fluid with your creative process. After you feel comfortable with your new lens POV, then perfect your skills with a tripod.
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Often (OK...always) I am way too analytical and forget to just get out there and "do it". I'll experiment at some local parks and colleges that have nice wide spaces.
Marc: Can't wait to meet you (and all the other Grinners) at Glacier. I appologize in advance for any newbie nagging I may perpetrate.
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That was a most excellent and informative response. Thank you!
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Canon 30D, some lenses and stuff... I think im tired or something, i have a hard time concentrating.. hey look, a birdie!:clap