Light, and Waiting - a photo on Flickriver

Light, and Waiting

Multiple exposure blend--there is a 2 stop difference between the foreground and the sky. No changes to colour.

here's a link to a painting of one of my pictures:

www.flickr.com/photos/54506672@N00/354047480/?#comment721...

I often get asked for "tips and tricks" so I'll try to address that here. I mostly do nature/landscape images so my points will apply to that genre.

1) Know where you're going before you go. Scout out your locations at midday or in those times when shooting isnt good. Ask permission from landowners--explain to them that you'll be coming very early. I find a compass helpful so that I can see which direction the sun will be rising. Figure out where you're going to park your car ( or canoe ! ).

2) Mornings are generally better than evenings. There's less wind, its colder, there are no people, and there's often mist. Evenings are still good but may conflict with social engagements (like dinner). Plan to get there 1/2 an hour before sunrise.

3) Lay out your gear the night before. I like to have everything ready so that I can just jump into my clothes and head out. I have my boots, coat, hat, headlamp, mitts right by the door.

4) Lenses. I'm using the Sigma 10-20mm or the Tokina 12-24 for most landscape stuff. They're both good. I'd take the Sigma over the Tokina only because it goes wider. The other lens that I use alot is an old push-pull Nikon 80-200 f2.8. Both Canon and Nikon make great, cheap 50mmf1.8 lenses. The whole Canon vs Nikon thing is silly--they're both excellent.

5) Tripod. Expect to pay alot for this. Get a pro model. Dont compromise. You'll also need a remote/cord thing so you dont touch the camera.

6) Filters. Either get a set of ND Grads ( see www.singh-ray.com/grndgrads.html ) or learn to bracket & blend (see www.flickr.com/photos/mr_fabulous/22132049/in/set-354266/ )

7) Get out and take pictures...you'll learn alot just by going out

8) I found this magazine : www.digitalphotouser.co.uk/ to be packed with good useful info...this single issue ( #80) on landscapes had all the practical info that you need. I also found Freeman Patterson's book very helpful: www.freemanpatterson.com/book2.htm

9) I realise its become a bit of a cliche, but the "rule of thirds" is important in this genre (just look at this picture). I also try to use lines and shapes to lead the eye. And I think images need to be balanced.

Taken on: December 28, 2006

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Peter Bowers

Peter Bowers Photography

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Groups appears in: • Picture The Cure • Spectacular Landscapes-invited images only :-) more » • 300 Big Ones • 500 favorites and more • PHOTOSHO magazine • The most amazing photo's • Flickr's Best Landscape Photographers (Post 1 Award 2) • Flickerites-NO PEOPLE PLEASE « less

Camera: Nikon D200, f/13.0, 1/10 sec, 10mm (=15mm), ISO 100 (more info) (hide info)

Camera:	Nikon D200
Aperture:	f/13.0
Exposure Time:	0.1 sec (1/10)
Focal Length:	10mm (35mm equivalent: 15mm)
ISO:	100
Exposure Bias:	-8/3 EV
Flash:	No Flash
Exposure Program:	Aperture-priority AE
Exposure Mode:	Auto
Metering Mode:	Multi-segment
White Balance:	Auto
Contrast:	Low
Color Space:	sRGB
Software:	Adobe Photoshop Elements 3.0 Windows
Show full info

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