Weather and location can make or break a landscape photography session, but the equipment you bring often gets too much credit—or blame. Many believe you need a full frame camera to capture stunning landscapes, but that’s not the case. Smaller sensor systems can deliver exceptional results, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Coming to you from Chris Baitson Photo, this insightful video showcases how a micro four-thirds camera handles the rugged beauty of the Lake District. Despite the rain, wind, and challenging terrain, the camera proved itself by producing sharp, dynamic images. Baitson started the day photographing clusters of rocks against dramatic low clouds. He used an f/11 aperture to focus sharply on the foreground while letting the distant mountains soften slightly. The smaller sensor’s inherent depth of field helped maintain clarity across the scene, reinforcing its capabilities for landscape work.
Later, Baitson explored long exposures and panoramas. A neutral density filter slowed his shutter speed, smoothing water ripples in a stream and emphasizing the movement in a small waterfall. The compact OM System OM-1 made capturing multiple frames for a panorama straightforward, stitching together 10–12 images for a seamless wide-angle view. These techniques demonstrate the flexibility of smaller systems, which are lighter and easier to handle, especially when trekking through muddy, boggy terrain.
As conditions changed, Baitson shifted his focus to creative approaches, like isolating a cluster of rocks near an island with low clouds in the background. He experimented with high-key black-and-white images, leveraging the sensor’s sharpness and tonal range. While not every attempt succeeded, the exercise reinforced that equipment limitations often exist more in perception than reality. The camera’s smaller sensor captured plenty of detail, proving it could handle complex lighting and contrast in both color and monochrome formats.
The final compositions featured atmospheric conditions like mist drifting over scree slopes. By anchoring the frame with a prominent boulder and using a simple, clean layout, Baitson highlighted the moody elements of the landscape. Again, the micro four-thirds system performed admirably, capturing the subtle textures of the rocks and the ethereal quality of the clouds. The compact camera allowed greater mobility, making it easier to adjust to rapidly changing light and weather.
Baitson’s experience demonstrates that smaller sensor systems are more than capable of delivering professional results. They offer advantages in weight, portability, and ease of use, which can be crucial when navigating challenging environments. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Baitson.
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!”
Seems nobody watched the video...a much better headline for this would be "Landscape Photography in The Rain"... we had less than a minute total on the stated subject. I think there was more discussion of the dying mic battery.