Landscape Photography is a very popular genre of photography. All major camera manufactures produce excellent well built SLR camera systems, they offer an extensive range of accessories that can soon lead to a depleted bank account. There is often a temptation to stock up on equipment; this particular lens, that particular filter in the belief that it will make you a better photographer or produce better images. Whilst to a degree this is true it is not always the case and I would advocate only buying extras when necessary, try to buy the very best that your budget will allow, this is particularly important when purchasing lenses.
We are quite fortunate as landscape photographers, a quality camera, a few lenses, filters and good solid tripod and we are good to go. We need to consider that we may have to carry our equipment to that perfect location so don't want to be weighed down with an abundance of kit, making the journey become a route march. So we need to think carefully about what is needed for a particular shoot and travel as light as possible.
Modern SLR camera systems have an abundance of features but there are some features that are considered an absolute necessity for landscape photography.
As serious photographers we do not want to have to totally rely on the cameras Auto setting, we need total control of exposure and have opportunity to be creative and set the aperture and shutter speed to suit each individual situation.
For landscape photography work (and in my opinion most other photography) a Depth of field preview is essential. It allows the lens to be closed down to your selected aperture prior to taking the image and allows a preview showing the extent of the depth of field available.
It takes a little time to get used to as a preview at f22 will be very dark. However, be patient, let your eyes adjust to the low light level and the preview will become easier to see and assess.
To hold the camera rock solid a sturdy tripod and head with a range of movements from high to low level is essential. It will be heavy but the benefits are well worth the extra effort required.
A remote or cable release is extremely useful, this will prevent any movement when the shutter release is pressed.
Used in conjunction with the cable release mirror lock-up, is a further aid to preventing camera movement and should be used in conjunction with the the cameras self timer.
For me landscape photography covers everything from grand sweeping views to smaller details so a camera system that offers a range of lenses is important.
Finally, add a few filters, namely polariser and 1 stop, 2 stop and 3 stop neutral density graduated, a sturdy camera bag to protect all that valuable equipment and we are all set to head off into the great outdoors for an enjoyable, exciting and rewarding day of landscape photography.
Phil is a Scotland, UK photographer for commercial, stock and wedding photography, providing stock images and a creative professional wedding photography service, also available for commercial, editorial or private photography commissions and assignments. Phil McDermott Photography
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