Landscape photography often gets caught up in gear, settings, and technical tips, but there's a deeper aspect that can easily be overlooked.
Coming to you from William Patino, this thoughtful video explores the importance of emotion in landscape photography. Patino discusses how he sees many people seeking quick solutions—tips on gear, technical tricks, or post-processing. While there’s nothing wrong with learning those aspects, they’re not what drives meaningful photography. Patino emphasizes that a photograph’s true value comes from the emotions it captures, rather than just the location or the lens. When he selects images for his portfolio, it’s not about which ones are technically perfect but which ones evoke a personal connection and stir a memory. That’s why he believes emotion should be a central focus in your photography journey.
Patino reflects on his own work, sharing how every image that makes it to his website has a story behind it. From seascapes with crashing waves to intimate forest scenes, his portfolio isn't defined by a specific style but by the emotions felt in the moment he took the shot. He deletes many technically good photos simply because they don’t carry the same emotional weight. This focus on feeling is what makes his work stand out. He encourages you to do the same—when deciding which photos to share or process, think about which ones mean something to you. Those are the shots that will matter years down the line, not just the ones that followed the rules perfectly.
The video also dives into the concept of slowing down and letting the photo come to you. Patino explains how it’s easy to get caught up in the technical side—worrying about exposure, sharpness, or hunting for the perfect angle. But sometimes, it’s more important to step back, observe, and allow yourself to enjoy the experience. Instead of obsessing over where the perfect shot is, try immersing yourself in the moment. Often, that’s when the best images naturally present themselves. By focusing on the feelings and the connection you have with the scene, you might discover a more authentic way of creating photos that resonate.
Towards the end, Patino brings up a simple yet profound idea: learning the technical aspects of photography is important, but they aren’t everything. You can master editing, have the best camera, and know how to get perfect focus every time. But none of that guarantees you’ll take great images. What does make a difference is finding those moments that inspire you. Maybe it’s the ocean, a full moon, or a misty forest. Knowing what draws you in, what makes you want to press the shutter, is where you should focus your energy. That’s where the real growth happens. 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!”
