In landscape photography, the moment in which we take the picture is crucial. Different moments lead to completely different images, even when shooting the same scene. Light conditions change dramatically upon changing of the hour of the day or the day of the year. As a photographer, you should be in the right place at the right time. Unlike a studio photograph, where light is artificial and thus can be controlled at will, in landscape photography you must possess the fine ability to seize the right moment.
Typically, a moment is a short period of time. So you not only need to be in the right place at the right time, but you must also act quickly and keep your cool. A rainbow, for instance will not stay there forever. Twilight will last a short amount of time, too. Besides, the right moment can often be unpredictable. So if you happen to be there at the right moment, just grab your camera and get ready to shoot.
It is amazing how landscape changes with seasons. Trees are maybe the most remarkable. Mountains can become snow-capped and flowers bloom only in certain periods of time.
However, daily changes are not less remarkable. We all have waited for the magic of a sunset at least once in our lives. Sunset light has something special in it.
In the rain or in a sunny day, with mist or moonlight, weather can change landscape, too. Variations are endless. Superb pictures are taken under changing weather, at the end of a thunderstorm, for instance, or when the mist starts dispersing in a foggy day. This last condition may sound unusual. However, misty weather offers an exceptional soft glowing light, capable of making colors more vibrant than ever. The best moment for a picture is during the transition from foggy to clear sky. Try shooting to flowers under this light condition, and you will be mesmerized by the results.
Try your own to take several photos of a landscape in different moments, under different lighting conditions. This will help you understand the light you prefer, the best settings for your camera versus the time of day or the season of the year. Experimentation is essential for mastering your camera. Don't always rely on automatic settings.
Andrea Ghilardelli runs an online photo retouching service. To get your pictures beautifully retouched and for articles about photography, please visit his site: http://www.ilghila.com.
