Summer landscape photography can be a challenging endeavor, especially in dense woodlands and forests, where the bright blue sky creates hotspots and the lack of atmospheric texture makes for a monotonous scene. However, all is not lost for landscape photographers during the summer months. Instead of packing away their cameras for half the year, they can explore alternative techniques and gear to make the most of the season. By embracing these new approaches, photographers can capture stunning images and keep their creative juices flowing.
One way to tackle summer landscape photography is to capture the Milky Way. While the window to capture stars after sunset is short, investing in a portable star tracker can allow for longer exposures and greater detail. This technique can be incredibly rewarding, especially when capturing the rise of the Milky Way above the horizon. However, it's important to be prepared for the challenges of astrophotography in the summer, such as the need for a dark, remote location and the potential for sleep deprivation.
Another approach is to photograph passing storms. The start of summer often brings unstable weather patterns, and late afternoon heat can cause cumulonimbus clouds to form, leading to lightning storms. By monitoring weather patterns from a safe distance and using weather-tracking apps, photographers can capture stunning images of lightning and the resulting sunsets. However, it's crucial to prioritize safety and avoid exposed areas or tall isolated objects.
For those who want to scratch the itch to go out and shoot despite the harsh midday sun, an infrared filter can be a game-changer. By looking beyond the visible light spectrum, photographers can transform monotonous scenes into ethereal fantasy worlds. Woodlands become white and blue skies turn deep black, creating unique and surreal images. This technique can be especially effective when combined with long exposures and ND filters to create smooth, glassy surfaces.
Experimenting with alternative techniques can also be a great way to spark inspiration and get creative. Multiple exposures and intentional camera movement (ICM) are two techniques that can be honed during the summer months. By setting up a tripod and adjusting the head up or down between shots, photographers can create painterly ICM-type photographs with in-focus areas on their subjects. This technique can be easily done handheld and doesn't require a tripod.
In conclusion, summer landscape photography may present unique challenges, but it also offers opportunities to explore new techniques and gear. By capturing the Milky Way, photographing passing storms, looking beyond the visible light spectrum, and experimenting with alternative techniques, photographers can make the most of the season and create stunning images. So, instead of packing away their cameras for half the year, landscape photographers can embrace the challenges and rewards of summer photography and keep their creative juices flowing.
