Photography can seem to be a terribly complex and regimented discipline; however, to me, it is simple and a whole lot of fun. Like any hobby, you can end up getting incredibly serious in your vain efforts to achieve perfection, and in doing so you forget the fun.
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There is nothing wrong with wanting to perfect your style, but not at the expense of enjoyment. Go back and think of the enjoyment you got when you first started. If you’ve lost the excitement, then you’ve gone off track.
I have provided a range of discoveries I have made over the years that you may find useful in getting the most fun out of your photography.
Release Control
One sundown at Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), I was waiting for a great moment of light, when a young farmer pulled up next to me with his camera and tripod.
Upon realising it was not such a great sunset, this bloke appeared quite upset and said to me “This is typical, this is the story of my whole trip.”
I’ve been planning for this all year and I haven’t got one good sunset.” I replied, “Wouldn’t it be great if they all came on cue!”
Acceptance
If you let it, landscape photography teaches you patience. You’ve got to meet it on its terms. You can’t expect to turn up, get a great shot and move off to the next place. It can happen, but rarely.
If you find yourself getting frustrated because you are not getting enough great shots, then realise that this is perfectly natural. Even when you are constantly travelling on the road, truly great shots don’t happen that often – and that’s what makes a truly unique landscape photograph so special!
Atmosphere
Just enjoy being out there with nature and try and be at one with it. Let your thoughts go and fully appreciate the landscape – develop a sense of wonder. Feel the rough bark trees, let the sand flow though your hands, or fill your lungs with the rich rainforest air.
Of course your brain and a keen eye are essential for photography, but you must add feeling to create life in a great photo. If you are truly at one with yourself and the scene, it may reveal itself.
The Journey
These days I like to think more about what I might see and feel on the way to a destination. Don’t get too hung up on the destination being your prized shot, because, if you do, you’ll shut yourself off to any opportunities on the way.
This way when you get to your destination, you may already have the prized shot in the bag, and the rest is cream on top. Good luck!
