Timing is everything. If you miss the right moment, you can miss the perfect shot.
Coming to you from Steve O'Nions, this insightful video shows the importance of timing and planning in landscape photography. O'Nions revisits a ridge walk he attempted a few years ago but missed the best moments due to poor timing. This time, he approaches it with a more strategic plan, starting with the lower parts of the walk while the mountain ridge is still shrouded in mist. By adjusting his route, he positions himself to capture the best possible images as the weather clears.
O'Nions emphasizes making the most of every part of the walk, not just aiming for the grand vistas. He discusses capturing the beauty of less spectacular locations, such as old mine workings, with dramatic skies and moody atmospheres. This approach helps you appreciate that good photos can be found in unexpected places and that you don't have to focus solely on the iconic shots.
O'Nions also introduces his equipment, like the Holga 135, a simple camera with a single-element plastic lens that gives unique, grainy images with vignetting. While he only managed one good shot with it on this trip, the resulting image's mood and drama demonstrate how even basic equipment can yield compelling results. His main focus, however, is on timing and conditions, showing how certain weather enhances specific scenes, such as wet slate and low clouds creating a dramatic look that suits black-and-white photography.
The video progresses as O'Nions climbs the ridge, waiting for the clouds to clear. He explains his use of filters, like the red filter, to enhance contrast and drama in his images. The strategic use of equipment and timing results in stunning images with rich textures and contrasts, underscoring the importance of patience and preparation. Check out the video above for the full rundown from O'Nions.
And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out our latest tutorial, "Photographing the World: Japan With Elia Locardi!"
The anxiety of watching someone else walk around in horrible conditions hoping that the weather opens up is a feeling all too familiar.