Landscape photography presents unique challenges, but mastering them can lead to stunning results. One of the biggest hurdles isn’t technical—it’s psychological. Many struggle with motivation, making it hard to leave the house and commit to a shoot. Whether it’s the early mornings or the uncertainty of success, the mental barriers often outweigh the physical ones.
Coming to you from Thomas Heaton, this thoughtful video explores how embracing the process of photography, rather than fixating on results, can revolutionize your approach. Heaton reveals that a poll in his community showed 37% of respondents cite motivation as their biggest challenge, followed closely by finding interesting locations at 33%. These results highlight the need to shift your mindset. Instead of focusing on the final image, he suggests appreciating the act of being outdoors: the fresh air, the exercise, and the chance to connect with nature. By valuing these moments, you’ll find it easier to show up consistently, even on uninspiring days.
Heaton also dives into the practical side of this approach, sharing his experiences in remote locations. On a hike through the Scottish wilderness, he acknowledges the unpredictability of nature. Despite covering miles of rugged terrain, he admits to initially not finding a perfect shot. Yet, his patience paid off when fleeting light transformed the scene. Heaton emphasizes that just being present increases your chances of capturing something remarkable. This persistence serves as a reminder that landscape photography is often about waiting, observing, and adapting to the elements.
Beyond mindset, Heaton offers actionable advice. For instance, he uses a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance contrast in water scenes and experiments with a 10-stop ND filter for long exposures. These techniques don’t guarantee a masterpiece every time, but they equip you to make the most of any situation. Heaton’s ability to balance technical preparation with an openness to chance exemplifies the value of flexibility. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Heaton.
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!”
