Capturing new landscapes means more than just visiting popular spots. It’s about pushing yourself to explore overlooked areas and finding beauty in unexpected places.
Coming to you from Nigel Danson, this engaging video takes you on a journey through the Lake District, where Danson explores lesser-known areas before the peak autumn colors arrive. He starts his day at Brothers Water, a location he first photographed over 30 years ago. Equipped with a light kit, he sets out to capture the subtle seasonal changes beginning to appear in the ferns and trees. By traveling light, Danson keeps his focus on enjoying the experience and discovering new compositions, rather than carrying a heavy load of equipment. This minimalist approach helps maintain his creativity and encourages spontaneity.
Danson talks about using different focal lengths to achieve various effects in his images. For instance, he mentions switching between a 50mm lens and his 24-200mm to frame different elements of the scene. By adjusting his perspective, he finds shots that highlight the beauty of the valley, the reflections in the water, and the play of light on the autumn foliage. This video demonstrates the importance of experimentation and flexibility when shooting outdoors. By shifting focal lengths and trying new angles, Danson effectively shows how to make the most of each scene.
Midway through the video, Danson ventures up a hillside for a better view of the valley and the Langdale Pikes. As he climbs, he discovers a variety of compositions that would otherwise be hidden from view. Danson’s persistence pays off when he reaches the top and finds a stunning vantage point overlooking several fells, lakes, and woodlands. This sequence illustrates the value of taking the extra step—literally and figuratively—in landscape photography. You might miss out on the best scenes if you don’t push yourself to explore beyond your initial setup.
Later in the video, Danson discusses the impact of changing weather conditions on his shoot. He mentions the challenge of working with harsh midday sunlight, which made photographing the woodlands difficult. However, he doesn’t let this deter him and instead uses his drone to scout for potential spots that might look better in softer light. This strategy is especially useful in locations where weather can change rapidly, allowing him to make the most of his time outdoors. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Danson.
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!”
