Don't Forget To Look Down

I enjoy my wide-angle photography, and I bet that you do too. Most landscape photographers revel at the opportunity to feast their eyes and camera upon those larger scenes. But last year, one of my goals was to pay attention to what was under my feet. I wanted to challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone of wide-angle photography and explore more intimate landscape scenes. In doing so, I've developed a few tips or themes that can help guide you as you pursue smaller scenes in a landscape setting. 

1. Line

Line is a compelling compositional element in all genres of photography, so it's no surprise that line is also visually pleasing when paired with more intimate scenes. 

Lines often lead a viewer on a journey through a frame and can infuse depth and dimension into a photo. In the example image below, I was attracted to the shape created by the lines. All lines lead into the middle of the frame, where an inclusive triangle has been made. I enjoyed the story and couldn't help but think, "All roads lead to home." Gary Zukav. 

ISO 64, 22.5mm, f9, 1/160 ss

2. Texture

Texture is another strong compositional element, and nature is an expert at mixing textures. So when looking for pleasing intimate landscape scenes, consider texture as the main element to showcase in these smaller frames. Texture can be anything from tree bark to foliage to grains of sand and more. 

3. Repetition and Pattern

Repetition and pattern infuse a sense of visual harmony and balance in a photo. Repetition and pattern can be found throughout a frame through various elements. Texture, colour, objects, and even similar features like the peaks of a mountain or waving lines through snow can infuse a sense of stability and organization. 

ISO 64, 22.5mm, f9, 1/160 ss

4. Separation or Isolation

Another excellent theme to look for in more intimate scenes is separation or isolation. This scene can call attention to a single main subject and infuse story and simplicity. Look for locations where separation infuses a sense of order and isolation draws attention to singularity or difference.   

5. Contrast or Conflict

Seasonal clashes are some of my favourite intimate scenes, especially that conflict between fall and winter. I found this torn and battered leaf frozen in the ice and tried different angles and compositions. I was also drawn to the warm yellow of the leaf against the colder blueish-hued ice. 

 ISO 64, 22.5mm, f9, 1/125 ss

Don't be afraid to look down over that landscape you are walking through. There's beauty hiding beneath your feet. I know that this year I'll try to explore and get better at capturing those smaller, more intimate landscape scenes using the themes I've discussed above as my guide.