Shooting the Land of Landscapes

by Paul Raymaker

Washington draws photographers and hikers from all over the world to experience and capture some of the most dramatic landscapes in the world. Of course, as a hiker here in the Northwest, you already know this. As you explore your favorite trails this season, try out these tips on how to capture those stunning landscapes, whether you’re shooting with an iPhone or an expensive DSLR.

The key: remember the “F” words.

Forecast

Imagine what the image will look like before it’s captured. Think about the story you want the photograph to tell. This can help you determine how to shoot the scene.

Focus

While landscapes often showcase large swaths of scenery, try to focus on a specific subject: a peak, hikers in action, wildflowers, etc. Pick a subject and focus on it.

Filter

Not the one on the front of your lens! Filter out elements in your scene that create a distraction, such as stray branches, a signpost or your backpack. It may be a simple matter of changing your position by a few steps.

Fotograph

Take photos. Take lots of photos. Don’t take the same photo you’ve seen before. Experiment with your scene, get creative with framing, and create something unique.

Add a trail, enter WTA's photo contest

Have a great landscape with a trail in the composition? Enter your photo in Washington Trails Association’s 11th Annual Northwest Exposure Photo Contest. You could win a Nikon camera or other great prizes.

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This article originally appeared in the July+Aug 2013 issue of Washington Trails magazine. Join WTA to get your one-year subscription.

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