There's a powerful reason to slow down before pressing the shutter button. Knowing how to visualize compositions in the landscape is crucial for creating engaging photos, making your images genuinely compelling rather than merely pretty.
Coming to you from Dave Morrow, this practical video demonstrates how to work a scene methodically, moving around to discover the best vantage point before ever pulling out your camera. Morrow stresses the importance of positioning yourself at varying heights to notice how foreground elements like rocks or branches affect your image. He points out how a slight elevation change can dramatically alter the visual weight of a waterfall or streamline your composition by avoiding distracting objects. This kind of intentional exploration is essential because it refines your eye, teaching you to observe critically and avoid settling for the obvious first shot you encounter. It also sets you up for stronger, clearer storytelling through your photographs by intentionally guiding the viewer’s eye.
Further along in the video, Morrow explores the significance of leading lines and transitions within your images. He demonstrates how effectively using contrasts—such as bright versus dark, sharp detail against softer areas, or saturated colors next to muted tones—draws attention and guides viewers through your photo. His insights on using shutter speed creatively to control water detail, adjusting the ISO and aperture to achieve desired visual effects, provide practical strategies you can immediately apply in the field. These decisions aren't merely technical; they're deeply connected to how people naturally view and interpret images. By strategically placing points of high detail and leveraging visual transitions, you control exactly how viewers engage with your photographs.
Expanding on this idea, Morrow emphasizes the value of patience and methodical workflow. He suggests sticking to a consistent shooting process, which frees you from constantly adjusting settings and allows you to fully concentrate on composition and changing light conditions. Spending more time at each spot, trying various shutter speeds and compositions, maximizes your opportunities for capturing unique and compelling images. He shares that his best images typically come from exploring multiple compositions in one location, finding better shots after thoroughly engaging with the scene.
Morrow also touches on how integrating backpacking into your photographic routine can profoundly transform both your photography and your life. Backpacking isn't just about access; it fundamentally reshapes your relationship with time, nature, and your creative process, making the resulting images personally rewarding and meaningful. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Morrow.
And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out our latest tutorial, "Photographing the World: Japan II - Discovering Hidden Gems with Elia Locardi!”
