Developing a sense of vision part 2

When I am out in the field I am constantly reminded that in landscape photography there is no such thing as a lack of subject matter only a lack of vision. Everywhere you look there are elements natural or man made which can be used to create an image. The choices available are endless. The key is learning to identifying the most interesting aspects of a landscape,  picking these elements out from their surroundings and arranging them into a successful image.

From a practical point of view there are several things to consider:

1. Learn how to "see" the environment. Think about what it means to you and inject some of your personality into your image. How we "see" an environment is unique to everyone of us, so it follows that our images should be as individual. To achieve this it is important to overcome preconceived ideas of how things should look. Don't fall into the trap of trying to replicate iconic images of already familiar places, instead try to take a different view. Be original and creative.

For every landscape image I make I try to capture something unique about that particular environment. In this shot it was the cloud formations in the sky which prompted me to make the image. Using a polariser and converting to black and white helped enhance the effect I was after.

This alternative view of Orwell Bridge was taken from a position underneath the bridge. I wanted to give a sense of scale which is not possible with a straight forward landscape shot.

2. Perfect your observational skills. This may sound obvious but it is amazing how many people can look at a view and not notice key elements within it. Observation is a very impotant aspect of landscape photography and is a skill worth perfecting. There are some some simple exercises you can try to help with this. Firstly before even venturing outside have a look at some of your favourite images from other photographers and see what catches your eye - what important elements have they used within their scene and do these contribute to the success of the image?

Another good trick is to think about a favourite place; imagine it in your head then write down what you see discribing as many of the landscape elements as you can remember. When you next visit that place take your discription with you and see how many additional elements you can find - I promise you there will be lots!
When you are observing in the field look for lines, shapes, textures, tonal contrast,  pattern and colour and do this across the whole scene; including the foreground, middle distance and horizon. Observe with all your senses - touch, taste, smell and sound will all help establish a picture of your environment and may give you an idea for a unique fresh angle. Don't rush from one viewpoint to the next ; make sure you explore all the posibilities in one location first.

3. When you are observing think about your emotions; what words spring to mind as you look at the scene in front of you? These will help establish a mood; an aspect which is critical if you want to turn your pictures from straight observational records into something artistic which connects with an audience. More about this later.

4. Finally photograph what you care about and your passion and love of the landscape will shine through.