Mistakes are part of growth in any craft, including photography. For landscape photography, where conditions and circumstances can change in an instant, even experienced professionals find themselves relearning old lessons. These missteps aren’t just frustrating—they’re also opportunities to adjust your approach, improve, and refine your process.
Coming to you from Adam Karnacz of First Man Photography, this insightful video explores the challenges that arise in landscape photography and why they matter. One of the main points Karnacz discusses is over-reliance on weather forecasts. It’s easy to plan your shoot around the perfect conditions, only to have them shift unexpectedly. Karnacz recounts how a change in weather on his drive to the Lake District caused him to second-guess his original plan, leading to a scramble for a new location. This lesson highlights the importance of adaptability—sometimes the best photographs come from working with what’s in front of you, not what you expected. Rather than waiting for ideal conditions, focus on exploring the scene as it is.
Another recurring issue Karnacz points out is the physical fitness required for landscape photography. Climbing hills and carrying heavy gear isn’t easy, and fitness plays a direct role in how far you can go to find unique compositions. Karnacz candidly shares how a lack of consistent physical conditioning has held him back, leading to missed opportunities for better shots.
A subtle but important point Karnacz makes is about maintaining creativity. He acknowledges that sometimes he’s too goal-focused and walks past potential shots because they don’t align with his pre-visualized outcome. By slowing down and taking the time to observe, you might notice opportunities you would otherwise overlook. Karnacz experiments with simple compositions using silver birch trees, showing that even minimal effort can yield worthwhile results if you take a moment to engage with your surroundings.
The video also touches on managing expectations. When planning shoots in iconic locations like the Lake District, it’s easy to assume you’ll leave with portfolio-worthy images. But reality often falls short. Karnacz emphasizes the importance of focusing on the long game—building a strong body of work over time rather than chasing instant success. This mindset can help you avoid disappointment and appreciate the learning process. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Karnacz.
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!”
