Understanding the basics of landscape photography

Exposure

Landscape photography relies on a balanced exposure between the dark and light areas of the image. To achieve this balance, it is essential to understand the basics of exposure in photography.

The exposure triangle, consisting of aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, allows you to adjust the light captured by the camera. These three settings interact to produce a well-exposed image, avoiding both overexposure and underexposure.

Depth of field

A large depth of field is often sought in landscape photography so that the entire scene, from the foreground to the background, remains sharp. This is achieved by narrowing the aperture (f/8 to f/16) and choosing the right focal length.

White balance

White balance determines how colors are perceived based on the ambient light. Outdoors, a "Daylight" setting is often suitable, but feel free to adjust it to faithfully capture the mood of a sunset or a snowy landscape.

Camera settings for capturing landscapes

Aperture priority (Av or A mode)

In aperture priority mode, you choose the aperture and the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed. This allows you to control the depth of field and overall sharpness. It is the ideal mode for landscapes.

Shutter speed

A fast shutter speed freezes motion, ideal for capturing dynamic scenes. On the other hand, a slow shutter speed allows you to create artistic blur effects, especially on water, clouds, or moving elements.

To succeed in your long exposures, consider using a tripod to stabilize your camera. And to explore the fascinating world of night shots, check out our night landscape photo collection.

ISO settings

Keep the ISO as low as possible (100-200) to avoid digital noise. In low light, increase it slightly, but compensate with a tripod or a larger aperture to maintain image quality.

A great landscape photo starts with a well-prepared travel experience. To extend the inspiration, also explore our art landscape gallery.

Focusing for sharp landscapes

Manual focus

In manual mode, you can fine-tune the focus on a specific area of the image, often at 1/3 of the frame to maximize sharpness. Combine this with the hyperfocal distance for perfect sharpness from the foreground to the background.

Autofocus

Auto modes are convenient, but be careful not to let the camera focus on the wrong subject. Use a single AF point to maintain control. To optimize sharpness, also use a tripod, trigger with a timer or remote control, and activate the "mirror lock-up" function if your camera has it. These simple techniques help eliminate vibrations and achieve a perfectly sharp image.

Techniques for ensuring optimal sharpness

Use a tripod, trigger with a timer or remote control, and activate the "mirror lock-up" function if available. These simple techniques eliminate vibrations and ensure a sharp image.

Using filters to enhance your landscape photos

Use a tripod, trigger with a timer or remote control, and activate the "mirror lock-up" function if available. These simple techniques eliminate vibrations and ensure a sharp image.

Polarizing filters

A polarizing filter reduces reflections, intensifies colors, and makes the sky more contrasted. It is an essential accessory for landscape photography.

Graduated filters

Graduated filters balance the exposure between a very bright sky and a darker foreground. This prevents overexposed or underexposed areas in your images.

Neutral density filters

A ND filter allows you to slow down the shutter speed during the day, perfect for creating motion blur effects on water, clouds, or crowds. For serene and minimalist seascapes, explore our beach photo collection.

Les techniques de post-traitement pour améliorer vos photos de paysage

Basic adjustments in a photo editing software

In editing software like Lightroom, adjust the exposure, contrast, saturation, and white balance. Don't over-edit: the goal is to enhance, not distort.

HDR for Breathtaking Landscapes

HDR involves combining several shots with different exposures to preserve details in both highlights and shadows. Perfect for highly contrasted landscapes.

Panorama for Wide-Angle Landscapes

Combine several images to create a spectacular panorama. Use a tripod, keep the same settings, and slightly overlap each shot. For lovers of wild nature, explore our natural landscapes gallery.