When we discuss boring landscape photos the problem is usually the result of improper exposure, flat lighting, or unappealing colors. Hence, the solution typically involves adjustments made during editing process.

Today we’re switching things up with a quick fix that’s accomplished in the camera with whatever gear you own. In essence, this lesson is all about a unique approach that delivers a choice of compelling images on location, while keeping you from shooting photos that all look the same.

Instructor Mike Smith is a long-time British landscape photographer who posts weekly tutorials designed to help others make the best images possible in the great outdoors. In this nine-minute episode he introduces a method borrowed from motion picture directors who often open a film with a wide “establishing shot,” followed by a somewhat closer perspective, and then a tight shot of the protagonist.

Smith calls this approach “Wide, Medium, and Close-Up,” and it pertains to photographers in the field who come upon an interesting scene, make a photo or two, and then move on to another spot where they do the same thing. And this is a recipe for boring same-old-same-old images.

The approach recommended by Smith is really just a different mindset that he says really changed his photography. Now when he arrives at an appealing scene he first shoots a wide shot to capture an expansive vista. Then he swaps out his wide-angle lens for one with a longer focal length “and starts picking out interesting objects within the frame.”

As you’ve probably guessed, it’s now time for a longer telephoto lens to capture eye-catching detail shots. In fact, Smith says he normally captures three close-ups for every wide shot he makes. He provides several examples of how effective this technique can be, and includes captions with exposure and focal length details so you know exactly what he did.

We suggest that you visit Smith’s very popular YouTube channel for more great advice—especially if landscape photography is your thing.

And be sure to check out a related tutorial we posted earlier, explaining how another pro captures sharp outdoor photos with long telephoto lenses.

We all hear about so-call “hidden” editing tools that deliver great results. But while many of these methods are effective, some are quite familiar to photographers of all skill levels.

The quick tutorial below, however, demonstrates an oft-ignored Lightroom tool that enables you to make faster and more precise HSL edits that ever before. As you probably know, HSL stands for hue, saturation and luminance—three important values that form the basis of color in a photo.

Instructor John Pedersen is an accomplished landscape photographer with years of experience capturing beautiful images in the Pacific Northwest, and editing them to perfection. In the nine-minute tutorial below he demonstrates what he says is a “fantastic, hidden editing tool that’s super easy to use.”

Pedersen’s trick involves an unconventional and very intuitive method for HSL adjustments. What makes this technique so special is this: Instead of using Lightroom sliders that apply global enhancements to the entire image, he clicks on an obscure button to make selective adjustments “exactly where you want them.”

The episode begins in Lightroom’s Develop module with Pedersen scrolling down to the HSL panel. He then demonstrates the most common approach to enhancing a nice landscape scene he shot in Iceland with reindeer in the foreground. As you’ll see, this approach is far from perfect.

The magic begins as soon as Pedersen selects a small, overlooked button found on the left of the HSL panel. Now when he clicks on the image, his cursor transforms into crosshairs with directional indicators. By moving the crosshairs within the photo, it’s possible to make HSL adjustments to the specific color underneath, while leaving the rest of the image unchanged.

You can do this to as many areas of a scene that you want, and adjust various colors in an image. Thus, you can remove a blue cast from the snow without changing the tonal values of the sky, and then adjust the sky without ruining the perfect white snow. As you’ll see, there’s much more you can do with this fast and precise approach.

After watching the video head over to Pedersen’s instructional YouTube channel where you’ll find more editing tips and tricks.

We also suggest you watch an earlier tutorial we posted, with another pro’s composition tips that will transform your landscape photography.

How long has it been since you cleaned out your camera equipment bag? Take a look right now. If you’re still hanging on to gear that you haven’t used in the past six months (six weeks for truly active photographers) it may be time to shed the old or underused stuff and buy the equipment you need to expand your abilities—and your portfolio. This is where MPB, the online platform to buy, sell or trade used photo and video gear, can help.

If you no longer use that 100-200mm zoom you bought and later discovered it’s a poor choice for indoor portraits, sell it or trade up to something more suitable—an 85/1.4 for instance. Or maybe a fast 70-200mm f/2.8. You might need a macro lens now that spring is here and the buds are popping out everywhere.

With vacations coming up soon, you may want a wide-angle, ultra-wide-angle or ideally a wide-angle zoom for shooting on narrow streets, for landscapes or for everyday street snaps. Travel photography is always so much more enjoyable when you carry the right equipment. And it’s a serious shame to miss once-in-a-lifetime shots because you had the wrong lens.

A Drone of Your Own
Itching to pilot a drone? Get a drone of your own from MPB. Trade in your underused gear and begin a whole new adventure in the sky. MPB has a great selection of gently used drones, accessories and GoPro cameras available for sale.

MPB is THE Used Camera & Lens Paradise
No matter what you need, take a close look at MPB’s extensive and everchanging inventory of used lenses and cameras. Whether you have your eye on a Sony, Tamron, Canon, Nikon or Fujifilm lens or camera body—or another brand—you’ll find an ample supply on hand. And keep in mind that your trade-in may go a long way toward offsetting the cost.

MPB Makes Selling & Trading Easy and Safe
With a client base of more than 300,000 customers worldwide, a 5-star rating on Trustpilot and turnover of more than 300,000 pieces of used camera gear per year, MPB has earned a sterling reputation for honest and fair dealings. And here’s a fact that will blow your mind. On average, customers earn $900 each time they sell to MPB.

MPB makes selling or trading your gear safe, simple and fast. In fact, it’s as easy as 1-2-3.

1. Go Online for an Instant Quote
Visit MPB’s website for an online appraisal. It’s free and fast. Simply enter the model name and condition of the product you’re selling and indicate whether there’s another item you’d like to buy in exchange.

MPB uses five condition ratings. They check over your gear to confirm its actual condition, so don’t worry if you’re not sure which one to choose. For help deciding, check out this video.

• Like new – mint condition, only minor wear

• Excellent – minimal signs of wear, otherwise pristine

• Good – fair amount of use, but well-kept; may have marks or scratches

• Well Used – significant use, noticeable signs of wear and tear

• Heavily Used – significant signs of wear and tear, primary functions still work

2. Pocket the Shipping Costs
Here’s another way you save. MPB pays for shipping when you send your gear in to verify the condition and complete the deal. You can change your mind right until the last second, too.

3. Count Your Dough
No waiting and no excuses. You get your money fast when you sell to MPB. As soon as MPB receives your gear, they check the items, confirm the quote and send the money to your bank account. Payment is quick and secure.

You’re not flying solo. MPB provides friendly expert help and support every step of the way. MPB has offices New York City in the US, Brighton in the UK and in Berlin, Germany. If you have any questions or doubts about any step in the process, contact them directly and start a dialog.

Don’t Wait Until it’s Too Late
Digital cameras lose value as they age. Once you’ve decided to make some changes in your camera and/or lens arsenal, act promptly and avoid possible regret. Digital cameras are like fish—it’s better to sell them while they’re still fresh.

Your Old Gear Can Become Someone Else’s New Gear
One pro we know has a personal rule. If he owns a piece of camera equipment that he hasn’t used in 10 or 12 months, he trades it in or sells it and buys something he needs. He calls it “refilling the budget.” Selling the gear you seldom use can give a leg up to a beginner, too. There is nothing more rewarding than helping a kid get involved with a wholesome hobby.

A Word of Caution About Online Auctions
Auction websites are popular, but truth told, they tend to sway in favor of the Buyers, not the Sellers. The world’s largest online auction operation famously has a policy that prohibits Sellers from leaving Neutral or Negative Feedback for Buyers. Think about that. A Buyer stiffs you and you can’t leave a negative or even neutral comment—feedback that could save another seller from getting jammed up.

Even at the best of times, listing online is always a gamble. Maybe the bids will be high and you’ll get your full value; then again, maybe not so much. And there’s always the chance that the item will go unsold for days or even weeks. We won’t even mention the percentage fee you have to pay to the auction site, and the risks you take if the buyer turns out to be a deadbeat.

Find Out What Your Trade-in is Worth
What have you got to lose? MPB’s no risk online appraisal is free and immediate. Sell or trade in the system you’re tired of and start shooting with the gear you really want. Or decline the offer—no hard feelings and no damage to your purse.

High Quality Used Equipment at Honest Prices
Nothing to trade or sell? Not a problem. It’s still a smart move to make your buying selection from MPB’s extensive inventory of mirrorless cameras, lenses, DSLRs, drones and other gear for photo and video storytellers. Every major brand name is represented, and the inventory changes daily. MPB offers used products from Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, Olympus, Canon, Sigma, Tamron, DJI, GoPro and many, many more popular brands. If you don’t see exactly what you want today, you probably will soon.

Buy with confidence. You can rest assured when you buy a used product from MPB. Every traded in item is inspected carefully by trained technicians. Every used camera body or lens includes a 6-month warranty. When you browse through MPB’s broad inventory, the item pictured in the listing is the exact item you receive, because every item is individually photographed, and the accurate condition is described in the listing. There are no bad surprises.

To MPB, You’re More Than Just Another Transaction
Open a free MPB account to unlock faster checkout, manage your transactions online and get more relevant content. The MPB website is a wealth of product information, pertinent interviews, podcasts, competitions, gear guides, how-to tips, videos and other content of interest to photo and video storytellers. They also offer a free newsletter. The newsletter is always packed with helpful information, guides and tips covering a wide variety of photo and video topics.

—Shutterbug Staff

WotanCraft, maker of handsomely designed camera shoulder bags, photo backpacks and accessory pouches, recently introduced a lineup of finely crafted leather camera neck straps and wrist straps. They’re all available now in a variety of colors and styles, including a series that features Peak Design Anchor Links.

It’s no secret that WotanCraft is one of our favorite brands of camera bags. Check our recent review of the updated Pilot series to find out why. WotanCraft also manufactures versatile bicycle bags and watch straps, and now—luxury leather camera straps, both neck and wrist.

WotanCraft Full Leather neck straps and wrist straps are available with Cura split rings (high-quality Japanese O-shaped rings) and Peak Design Anchor Links. Choose from a selection of tapered neck straps and narrower straps that are of uniform width.

WotanCraft Hand Aged wrist straps are available in a wide assortment of colors with either Cura split rings or Peak Design Anchor Links.

Prices range from $49 to $129 and they can be ordered directly from WotanCraft.

Premium Whole Cut Leather & Premium Craftsmanship
WotanCraft leather neck and wrist straps are made using the “whole cut” method similar to the process used in the production of luxury hand-sewn leather shoes. Straps are cut from an entire piece of vegetable-tanned leather through only one cut. This more costly method requires fewer stitches and presents the beauty of the leather grains and texture in the most natural and beautiful way possible.

Choose the Best Connectors
Made in Japan,  Cura split rings are polished for more than 20 hours to ensure that each individual ring has an extremely smooth surface. Through time and use, the rings gradually reveal the original color underneath the chrome plating, giving your camera a retro vibe.

Peak Design Anchor Links are widely popular throughout the world and are the logical choice if you’re already into the PD system or need the ability to quickly release the strap to attach your camera on a tripod or gimbal. They’re also perfect if you plan to use one strap with multiple cameras.

Rounded Edges
All WotanCraft leather straps are handcrafted and painstakingly fashioned. All go through a burnishing process similar to the iconic WotanCraft wristwatch straps. Experienced craftsmen apply leather burnishers under exact pressure to ensure that every part of the strap is smooth and comfortable and looks its best. You can feel the difference and easily see it from a distance.

Saddle Stitching
All neck and wrist straps are double-needle saddle stitched for strength and beauty. Thick linen threads are used to prevent sweat corrosion and are waxed to avoid frizz. The hand sewn saddle stitch method is stronger and more reliable compared to machine-stitched leather techniques.

In the Field
We were able to test run both the wrist straps and neck straps and it was sheer delight. The straps are ruggedly handsome and very comfortable to wear. It’s obvious that great care and attention to detail guided their fabrication.

The option of using the popular Peak Design Anchor Links was a huge benefit. In our case, we already use the PD system, so attaching the WotanCraft leather strap was as simple as press, slide, pull tight.

The camouflage color tapered neck strap with PD Anchors was our leather of choice, as it’s durable, comfy and strong. The WotanCraft Hand Aged leather wrist straps are also a joy to behold and equally comfortable and secure.

Conclusion
There is something about genuine, beautifully crafted leather that says, “highest quality.” The WotanCraft genuine leather neck and wrist strap collection is a good value; the prices are fair and the quality of workmanship is impeccable. We can’t imagine one ever wearing out. Highly recommended. 

—Jon Sienkiewicz