WHAT MAKES A GREAT LANDSCAPE PHOTO, GREAT?
The topic of what makes a landscape scene compelling is one I’ve examined for many years. (And it’s one I’m still exploring).
Technical considerations such as crisp focus and an even exposure are necessary, but not sufficient. Captivating scenes—the ones that hold our gaze as we scroll by on social media—often rely on considered composing by those who created them.
Yet the art of composition is one of the most challenging topics to codify—not to mention apply. You’re likely familiar with common maxims, like align your horizon with the rule of thirds, include nearby elements to create foreground interest and position leading lines toward your subject.
These tips are well-known for a reason. They tend to work.
But have you taken time to consider why they work? Are there other composition principles you can harness? And when should you break the rules altogether?
The nebulous world of landscape composition is so much richer than leading lines. So, let’s delve a bit deeper and consider a few key tips to be mindful of next time you go out to frame your shot.
1 BALANCE YOUR SCENE BY CAREFULLY POSITIONING SUBJECTS
Big bold seastacks or giant old-growth trees make for impressive subjects. But when a single element carries
