Landscape Composition: 5 Pro Tips for Cutting Thru the Clutter (VIDEO)
One challenge faced by all landscape photographers, especially when shooting with wide-angle lenses, is creating order out of the chaos that often appears in complicated, expansive vistas. Failing that, your images can be confusing because the viewer is unsure exactly where to look.
Don’t worry if you’re struggling with this task because we’ve got you covered in this quick tutorial from instructor Jalen Oban who says, “I’ll break down simple yet effective tips that will help you easily elevate your landscape composition skills.” He’s a pro based in the Pacific Northwest to whom we turn to often for helpful techniques when shooting in the field.
Oban’s goal is to make composition feel effortless by demonstrating foolproof techniques that simplify complex scenes and improve the impact of your work. He describes conventional “rules” with you may be familiar, like finding leading lines, as well as other less-common methods that he relies upon himself.
These tips are appropriate for photographers of all skill levels and can be easily achieved with whatever camera you use—including an iPhone or an Android equivalent. Oban says that when he refers to the subject of a given photograph, “I’m referring to the key point of interest or what you want the viewer to see when they look at your image.”
When arriving on location many photographers instantly begin shooting without following Oban’s #1 suggestion; namely, taking a few moments to scrutinize the surroundings to “look around,” pick and choose, and identify what you like about the scene, so you can thoughtfully frame the shot with intention.
And remember that “you don’t have to fit everything you see into a single image.” In fact, striving to do so is usually a big mistake. That’s because all-encompassing compositions often lead to a clash of interests and unbalanced photos. So start broad and gradually narrow-down the focal point until you arrive at a compelling composition that simply cannot be ignored.
With this important strategy out of the way, it’s now time for Oban’s practical examples of different styles of effective composition that are easy to put to work—all illustrated by Oban’s compelling imagery that’s sure to inspire you to refine these methods to suit your specific needs.
Once you’re done watching head over Oban’s instructional YouTube channel that’s full of other tips and techniques that will work wonders for everyone who shoots in the great outdoors. Then get out there this weekend and experiment with your newfound skills.
We also recommend watching a tutorial we featured with another accomplished pro who demonstrates how he transforms boring landscape and nature photographs from meh to WOW by creating an awe-inspiring Golden-Hour effect in Lightroom Classic.
