The Art of Nature Photography
Before you start nature photography, you must have the correct lenses and cameras to take close up pictures. Most cameras do a fine job of taking landscape photography, however if you plan on photographing wildlife animals you may need a zoom lens since you will probably not be able to get as close as you would like without scaring the animal off.
Macro photography, on the other hand, is the photographing of small objects usually shot very close up. Things such as shells, insects, and small flowers are great subjects for macro photography. Some cameras have a built-in setting that allows them to take very good pictures close up. To get the best results though, you’ll need special lenses to take close-up shots. With the right tools, macro photography can be very beautiful and very rewarding.
Macro photography does require more patience. This is especially true when photographing small animals or insects. However, patience and persistence does pay off. Also if you are photographing outdoors the wind can play an important factor in the quality of your photos. This is because when you’re zoomed in close, even small movements can be very exaggerated and will cause your picture to be blurred.
A solution for this extra movement is purchasing various accessories for your camera. The equipment will help stabilize the flowers or plants especially in the moderate wind conditions. They usually clip onto the tripod and gently hold your subject in position.
To compose a great nature picture, you first must decide what you want to photograph. Do you find beauty in the sun shining through a leaf, or do close-ups of insects make you happy? If you have chosen plants, you only need to wait for the lighting to be right (whatever lighting you choose will give the photo personality and feeling).
If you choose to photograph animals, you must wait until one comes along at the right angle and stance. See our Wildlife Photography article for information on photographing animals.
To compose the best picture, put your camera on a tripod or hold it steady and still. A crooked picture will show a lack of experience while a straight picture will make the photo look more professional. Even if it is on a tripod, make sure the camera is level.
A great tripod will come with a built-in level to make this super easy. If it doesn’t, you can by one to snap on or use your guidelines to help find something straight in your photo to match up to. These tips will assist you in leveling your tripod and greatly improve the quality of your photographs. After this, you can begin taking pictures.
After you have practiced with your camera, try to take a nature picture that shows a feeling, such as joy or serenity. You might see the bright sun reflecting off of a window as joy, while the sun melting on top of the ocean may be viewed as serenity.
Try different lighting options or color filters to give your photo a different personality or capture an emotion of the scene. Practice with your camera enough and you will think to yourself, “Wow! I can’t believe that I took that picture!” Once you get even better, you can sell your photography, make large prints to hang on your wall or put your photos on a card, mug, pillow, etc. You will be rewarded with a smile and admiration from friends, family, and all viewers.
About the Author:
Barry Craft loves outdoor photography. For his latest tips to help you become a better photographer.Get FREE copy of his latest report entitled, “Top 10 Tips for Great Photo Composition” by visiting Nature Photography.
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