The winter landscape doesn’t have to be dull. It offers a unique palette of muted colors and soft light that can create striking images. However, capturing the subtlety of these scenes requires attention to tone, contrast, and composition.
Coming to you from Andrew Banner, this insightful video explores the value of shooting in flat winter light. Instead of chasing dramatic sunsets or high-contrast compositions, Banner focuses on the nuanced tones of the North Broads. He highlights how the soft, diffused light in January reveals delicate variations in color, particularly in the reeds and marshland. Without strong shadows, you can capture intricate textures and layers without harsh divisions. The video also touches on the benefit of shooting during the off-season, when fewer distractions—like boats or crowds—interfere with clean, natural compositions.
A key challenge Banner faces is dealing with unwanted elements in the frame. He demonstrates how to work around intrusive objects, like a glaringly artificial signpost, by adjusting his shooting position. He also considers how small shifts in perspective affect composition, particularly when framing a windmill. Instead of settling for a static image, he moves through the scene, testing different vantage points to minimize distractions. His approach reinforces the importance of refining your shot before post-processing rather than relying on heavy edits later.
The video also provides insight into the post-processing techniques Banner uses to enhance the mood of his images. He favors desaturation and added grain to emphasize the quiet, atmospheric quality of the scene. Instead of brightening colors, he leans into the natural tones of the environment. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Banner.
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!”
