CAPTURE NEW HORIZONS

Over the next few weeks I am going to be producing a series of articles on how I give myself the best opportunities for bringing back some great images when out shooting landscapes.  These are also the tips I give my guests who attend one of the MacLean Photographic Tours or Workshops. This series of articles is not going to be about what your camera and lens you should be using. This is about giving you the best opportunities whatever camera you use, whether it is a pro spec DSLR, a enthusiasts DSLR, Compact System Camera, compact / bridge camera or a mobile phone.  All are capable of producing good images with the right knowledge and I don't see any difference when I conduct my workshops or tours. Right, now that is out of the way, the first part of this series is about support.  No, this isn't about having your friends standing behind you clapping and cheering as you take your pictures - that would probably be very annoying anyway.  No I am talking ab...

90% of the time photographers are looking for an image that is sharp and in focus and the best way to acheive this is by selecting the correct shutter speed to ensure that the image is sharp.  As a photographer who specialises in landscapes I use a tripod which allows me the freedom to select whatever shutter / aperture combination I need but a tripod is not always convenient.  So what are the different options available to the photographer. Handheld Images - use the correct stance to support the camera Most images are taken handheld, either at arms length a la mobile phone / compact camera, or with the camera up to the face looking through the viewfinder.  The 'arms length' method is the least stable because movement in your arms will be transmitted to the camera.  With the camera against your face the photographer becomes a sort of tripod, especially if you stand correctly with your feet apart.  Supporting the camera with one hand under the...