Tell a Story with Nature Photography
Add drama to nature photography
The best nature photographers brave all kinds of weather (and the occasional critter) to wait for hours in cramped positions to capture the perfect nature photography shot. Fortunately, there are easier ways to ace nature photography. All it takes is an instinct for drama and the ability to seek out the story the natural world wants to tell.
Do You See What I See?
1. Chapter One: Contrasts
Create instant scale by contrasting large and small objects like the people dwarfed by this cascading waterfall. Further, by contrasting rushing water against a frozen iceberg, you make the viewer wonder just what story the photo is telling: Is it the first thaw of spring - or the first freeze of winter?
2. Chapter Two: Capture a moment
Certain aspects of nature photography don't lend themselves to lying in wait: they are spontaneous gifts from Mother Nature -- a sunset, a rainbow or a glimmer of sunlight. Whatever the case, these photographs communicate a mood and a sense of fleeting time.
3. Chapter Three: Find a focal point
This wrought iron gate in the middle of a snow-covered field begs a number of questions. Where did it come from? What is it for? Why is it half-open? If you can find a scene that inspires the viewer to create his or her own story, you've done your job.
4. Chapter Four: Give nature its due
Animals are fantastic subjects -- IF they stay still long enough. The best nature photography displays a sense of rest, potential movement or dynamic balance. But be quick! Animals won't wait for you to say "cheese."
Great nature photography doesn't have to be difficult or time consuming. If you can "read" the scene, the photographs will reveal themselves. Have fun -- and don't forget the bug spray.
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