- Maximize Depth of Field - This means to reduce the aperture diameter (larger f-number) to have both the foreground and background focused in the photo. The general f-number for landscape photography is between f/8 and f/16.
- Focal Point - The main object of focus in the photo should grab the attention of the viewer. It can be a tree, boulder, lake, or silhouette. Not only does the focal point matter, but the placement of it is also important. The rule of thirds can be used to place the object of focus.
- Foreground - Placing points of interest in the foreground can lead the viewers' eyes to the focal point and create a sense of depth in the photo (i.e. bed of flowers) . Shooting from a low angle and raising the horizon can help capture the foreground.
- Sky - If the foreground is bland and the sky has interesting cloud formations or coloring, lowering the horizon and including more of the sky can make the photo more dramatic.
- Lines - Leading lines can guide the viewers' eyes towards the focal point and create a sense of depth in the photo. It can also create interesting patterns in the foreground.
- Weather - The best photos aren't always taken on days with nice weather. Stormy weather can create a dramatic feeling and an ominous mood.
- Golden Hours - Dawn and dusk offers great lighting for taking photos; the golden light makes the landscape look more lively and creates more vibrant colors. The shadows and angles of the sun's rays can create interesting patterns in the photo as well.
- Horizons - Simply place the horizons according to the rule of thirds.
- Point of View - Photos from the typical point of view may not be able to create the desired dramatic feeling. Instead, taking photos from a low angle or from a high angle can change the perspective and create more interesting shots.
With this mental note, hopefully my future landscape photos will have the 'wow' feeling I'm aiming for.
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