It’s all about the eye for beauty I agree, but while one is into landscape photography, he/she has to keep in mind certain parameters in order to get the best of the nature. These parameters are extremely crucial and play an important role in the resulting picture. Apart from colours and backgrounds, both of which I have already discussed, lights also play a crucial role in photography. And one must always remember that landscape photography looks best when one uses the best of colors and with the best of light.

I’ve often seen that photographs that win competitions are often the ones that make fascinating use of light. Keep an eye out for that silver lining- the beams of light shining through clouds, sparkling light through the trees or windows, elaborate long shadows and the effect of side and backlighting. Certain angles of light lend an extraordinary effect to even an ordinary landscape; keep an eye for those sources. The art of a landscape photographer is to tap these angles and use it to his advantage. Be aware to snatch away every good light in every great angle possible. Believe it or not, even a plain tree shot in a brilliant light and angle can look heavenly. Use light to define your photographs.

Lighting effects in landscape pictures are vital not only because they bring in a sense of brightness, but also, because dramatic lighting can bring out the best in a landscape. The angle of light rays flashing through windows, a sliver of golden light creeping upon mountain faces, bouncing off the sea or shining up the sand! Lights bring out so much more to a photograph.

Of course, do not miss the wee hours of the morning while sunrise, late afternoon and the brink of sunset. ‘Magic hours’ as this is called- shots taken during this time gets magically enhanced. Literally! So all you landscape photographers who are looking for extraordinary landscape pictures, take that extra step towards it t harness the power of light and you can guarantee yourself fruitful results.