Nature photography is very rewarding for photographers and inspiring for those who view the photos. Whether it’s a remarkable sunset over the sea, a bear foraging in the forest or an eagle in flight, nature photos draw our attention and often create an emotional response of some kind.
There are so many opportunities in nature to capture a unique shot and learning how to make the most of such moments is what nature photography is all about. Here are some tips for taking beautiful photos.
- Be prepared with the right gear
Having the right photography gear is important, such as having the right lenses. Figuring out which is the best lens to shoot with is not an exact science and you will have different goals for different shots.
For example, when you’re shooting a wide vista, you need a wide-angle lens whereas if you’re taking close-ups of flowers or insects, a macro lens allows you to get closer to the subject. For shooting wildlife, you probably need a zoom or telephoto lens.
A tripod may not be necessary every time but it can help to prevent blurry images during long exposures. Nature photography often benefits from slow shutter speeds.
Filters are often overlooked but adding a simple polarizing fit to your kit can help you to capture deeper colors. A polarizing filter, for instance, can darken light blues and reduce glare.
- Look for the light
Sunlight can be good or bad and how you work with it determines the quality of your image. Direct sunlight tends to be harsh, which is why you should avoid shooting at midday. Early morning or late afternoon – the hours after dawn and before dusk – are regarded as the golden hours for nature photography.
The color is warmer and the light comes in at a low angle creating long shadows and showing texture. A scene that may look washed out and flat at midday tends to come alive in the golden hours.
- Get the perfect exposure
Your eyes see differently to the way your camera sees. Once you’ve found the right lighting, you need to make sure you’re shooting at the right exposure to make sure you capture the scene at its best. None of the bright areas in the image should be over-exposed
- Capture foreground interest
When capturing scenes in nature, it is always helpful to have some foreground interest. Photos of skies and empty landscapes may be atmospheric but some flowers or rocks in the foreground add depth and context to your image. The foreground can help to frame the image and give it a more three-dimensional feel.
- Consider adding movement
Movement in nature photos may come in the form of running water, birds flying, wildlife moving or trees blowing in the wind. Use a tripod and a low shutter speed to capture that stunning waterfall or flowing river.
- Be observant
Closely observe your surroundings and you will discover hidden opportunities. Don’t just look around at eye level as the most exciting opportunities may be underfoot, such as a moss growing on a log or a mushroom hidden by a rock. Close-ups are often a wonderful way to showcase nature’s beauty.
- Make the most of different seasons
It is amazing how different nature appears at different times of the year. Photograph the changing colors of the autumn foliage or the lush greenness and colorful flowers of summer.
In spring, the emergence of new life provides some amazing opportunities. In the cold of winter, the white snow contrasting with dark elements like the silhouettes of trees can help you create some striking images.