Finding hidden waterfalls or capturing streams that few have seen can set your photos apart and add depth to your work. Beyond beautiful landscapes, it's about challenging yourself and staying creatively sharp as you encounter new scenes.
Coming to you from William Patino, this insightful video takes you through the reality of landscape photography off the beaten path. Patino emphasizes the importance of preparation—not just for capturing great images, but for safety and comfort when exploring unpredictable terrain. He showcases the thoughtful balance of anticipation and flexibility, as even the best-planned excursions sometimes lead you off-course. The real lesson here is in his methodical approach, analyzing the scene thoroughly before committing to a shot, evaluating foreground options and compositional elements. For anyone wanting to elevate their photography beyond typical viewpoints, this kind of patience and adaptability can make all the difference.
Patino’s journey into a densely forested canyon illustrates the constant balance between technical challenges and creative possibilities. The video doesn’t gloss over setbacks—instead, it highlights the value of persistence, even after hitting physical obstacles like vertical cliffs and impassable gorges. He shares practical tips for framing waterfalls, emphasizing the importance of incorporating surrounding elements, such as lush greenery and natural frames, into your composition. His advice on managing technical challenges like mixed shutter speeds and windy conditions offers useful guidance for achieving sharper, more compelling images.
A notable point Patino makes is about giving yourself creative options. He intentionally captures multiple compositions and perspectives, rather than focusing exclusively on one perfect shot. This approach is practical—acknowledging that emotions felt in the moment can mislead you, and decisions about image quality and impact are often clearer when reviewed later, without distractions. Patino also encourages critical self-assessment, reminding you that personal standards evolve, and not every trip needs to yield a portfolio-worthy masterpiece. Sometimes the process itself—the adventure, the discovery, and the lessons learned—is equally valuable. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Patino.
And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out our latest tutorial, "Photographing the World: Japan II - Discovering Hidden Gems with Elia Locardi!”
