Out with Nature

People always comment they been there but never saw that lake, waterfall or other scene in the same way as I did in my photographs. The answer is always simple; I always go for the different angle from the non-obvious spots. Anyone can just stand on the edge of the dock to take a photograph of a lake or on the ascending stairs of a waterfall to shoot. Easy enough to do; but not always the best angle.

I always take the time to study the scene; how the different elements flow together or how they may interfere with the overall picture. Unlike an artist, a photographer cannot easily add or subtract from a photo. Today with Photoshop, it is much easier to add an object or remove something from the photography; as an artist capturing that moment in time we should not try to change it. Look at the scene to picture seeing all the elements that the lens sees is the first step in taking the photo at the right angle.

Another aspect when looking at the scene is where is the best vantage point. The other day when shooting Lake Howell in Pennsylvania late afternoon I realizes the best spot was the far side of the lake that was difficult to reach. The hike over wasn’t difficult it was getting to the spot on the shoreline that made it very difficult. After several scratches on the hands, I finally got to the spot only to have smaller branches cluttering up the scene. I was able to hook the branches to get them out of the photo. I always carry an extra pair of socks and shoes as I am always stepping into the water.

Once you found the spot, which is your secret spot to shoot. Nobody will every duplicate that photograph again, as it is just a moment in time that is gone forever except on your photo.
Equipment I carry in addition to my backpack of cameras and accessories; dry socks, hiking shoes, towel, hiking stick (mine is also a monopod) with bottle water and some snacks in a large fanny pack. I’ve considered buying hip boots as I do go into the water. That was because about year ago I was photographing Zion National Park; to get a good shot of the Narrows at sunset, my only choice was to wade out to the middle of the Virgin River to shoot. Afterwards, my hiking boots and socks were soaked; hip boots would have worked. I do the same when shooting waterfalls; get into the water, set up and shoot.

Just a word of precaution. When out in the wilds or even close to home, remember the environment; we only have one earth. Take out everything you bring in, remember the wild animals just want food or to protect their youth especially with bears. Bears are a problem with carrying food, so be careful; even in the east where there are not many. Bears can smell food miles away, if they find your back or fanny pack they will rip it open even if it’s on your back or fanny!

Ending this post I will say get off the walkway or trail to find that spot with the one of a kind photo have fun! See some of my work at www.PhotoByMike.net.

Fall Colors

This is a place for anyone who wish to post photo tips, techniques and those places where you can shoot that one of a kind photograph. From time to time I will post my own ideas and what I have found to be useful both using the camera or in Photoshop.

Most recently, it’s the end of fall 2007. I have not been out much shoot however I did get what I felt was some great early fall colors in Northeastern Pennsylvania. I was out in Glen Ricketts State Park shooting my favorite subject waterfalls and happen to photograph a forest scene that was subdue fall colors giving that tranquil sense to the eye, I named it forest.
Not much for names, however you can view this photo at my gallery location, www.photobymike.net.