The Power of Leading Lines in Landscape Photography

Leading lines are one of the most fundamental and powerful tools a photographer has for creating compelling compositions that invite the viewer into the frame. If you find yourself unsure of how to use leading lines, check out this fantastic video tutorial that features an experienced landscape photographer giving an in-depth explanation of the different kinds of leading lines and how to leverage them to create more powerful landscape photos. 

Coming to you from Mike Smith, this awesome video tutorial will show you the ins and outs of using leading lines in landscape photography. As Smith details, one of the most common errors when employing leading lines is not giving them a destination. Leading lines that lead to nowhere can make the viewer feel unsatisfied, as there is an inherent implication of a destination when they appear in an image. Often, the lines do not necessarily have to lead anywhere in reality, only appear to, the illusion of which can usually be accomplished by changing your perspective. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Smith. 

And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out our latest tutorial, "Photographing the World: Japan With Elia Locardi!" 

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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Great video.