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LANDSCAPES
With many photographic subjects the image consists primarily of a subject and a background, and the technique of composition is creating a satisfactory balance between them.
With landscapes the image is not so readily defined and more attention must be paid to color, tone, and texture and the creation of harmony within these elements.
As with most photographs, a successful landscape picture still should have an identifiable center of attention supported by the other elements in the composition. This center of interest could be something quite obvious such as a distant farmhouse or a solitary tree. But often it's more subtle such as a certain area of pattern or texture or a color that stands out from the rest. Placing the emphasis on one area of the picture gives structure to your composition and helps guide the viewer's eye which might otherwise wander about looking for something to settle upon.
Pay attention to the horizon line. A low horizon is used when you want to emphasize a dramatic sky and give a feeling of spaciousness to your shot.
A high horizon will draw attention towards the foreground and will minimize an uninteresting sky. Can you ever place the horizon in the center of the viewfinder? Yes, if the image has an overall symmetrical quality that you want to emphasize.
Often, lighting is the single most important element in a landscape picture. Be on the lookout for fog and mist that will add a romantic quality to your shot. Sunbeams breaking through storm clouds are easily captured on film and will add exciting impact to your landscapes. Time of day will have a dramatic effect on a landscape image. Try to shoot in early morning or late afternoon when shadows are enhanced and texture and form are accentuated. If you do, your shot will be much more exciting than if you had shot under a noontime sun.
Become aware of color changes during the course of the day. Light quality has more red content early morning and late afternoon producing warmer, more mellow pictures than those taken at noon.
Perhaps a good "trick" in landscape photography is to imagine the landscape you see through your viewfinder as a vast tabletop still life and the sun as your spotlight. The idea is to "place" your spotlight in the best location and "arrange” the elements you see in the best possible way to make a photograph with impact, one that produces a harmonious balance out of nature.
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