Perspective: The Story Behind the Image

Life can be chaotic. Daily obligations tend to draw a sheer curtain across the beautiful backdrop of nature in our world. We notice the water, the light and the shapes as we rush from one obligation to the next, but seldom take the time to appreciate the grand vistas surrounding us.

This time of year, nature conveniently provides dramatic lighting as bookmarks to our schedule. Photographers refer to the first and last hours of sunlight as the "golden hours" when long shadows, diffuse light and warmer hues add an ambiance that is lacking in the harsh midday sun.

Photography is not about equipment and software, it is about seeing and understanding composition and light. Light is the most important element in photography; it can be the difference between a good photograph and a throw-away snapshot. The ability to see and compose light and dark, colors and shapes, defines a good photographer.

Timing is everything. Unlike painters, who can draw on imagination, landscape photographers must wait for magnificent conditions. The basic canvas of shapes is there waiting for a splash of color or a blanket of fog. Be observant, be patient, you will be rewarded.

The reservoirs surrounding us offer the big shapes to begin composing. Think of the sky and shore as big shapes to manipulate around the frame of your shot. De-focus your eyes from the details. Move around and try different angles before thinking about the details that add "interestingness." Play with the white balance settings on your camera to alter the hues slightly. Most importantly, go out and enjoy the the time spent. Choose a subject that appeals to you and the results will be immeasurably better.