George asks…

Best time of the day to get landscape photos?

I am 16 and I have a growing interest/love for photography. I am a storm spotter and other than getting photos of thunderstorms and cloud structure, I will on occasion capture lightning using longer exposures; you know, the usual technique for lightning photography. Night photography is my favorite yet, I am just wanting to take a day to do some daytime/landscape photos.

A couple months ago, I purchased a somewhat cheap but ok priced set of filters for my Canon Rebel XS (1000D.) I use the stock kit lens (18-55mm Efs/IS) and they fit perfectly within the lens rings..I have a UV filter and a circular polarizer, which I use most often, but don't get much out of it, which is why I am curious on what time of the day works best for getting landscape pictures. I do love the fact the polarizer helps bring out contrast in rainbow photos, clears out haze and makes the sky darker. I notice it works better if I sit the camera at a right angle where the sun is more "reflecting" off of the landscape scene, for example, I point where the sun is shining off a field.

I have heard the "golden hours" are a good time for taking photos because the sunlight is more at an angle, highlights areas and brings out shadows and soft tones in general. But I just want to hear other photogs' opinions on good times to get pictures outside.

I also understand the camera dial priorities (M, Av, Tv, P, etc.) The only priorities I use though are Manual and Aperture, I hate the Auto settings, doing it myself is what I like best. I use Manual at night but during the day, I set it to Av. I also understand completely ISO, shutter timings and aperture, taught myself.

It may look like a lot but any tips on my question or opinions on how to get the best photos will be appreciated. Thanks! :)

landscapeliving answers:

Well, if ur looking for light contrast y not try sunset or sunrise? Only a wonderful picture can come out of that.
If u consider that as taking the safe road try at 5:00p.m where light in the camera will reflect just the way u see it( not special light effects) and then u get a change to proof your true talent,both with angles and light details, and with editing and what u choose to take pictures of.

Hope this works for you:)

Daniel asks…

Where are the best places to take landscape photos in Japan?

Historic spots, Modern architecture, Scenic beauty, I don't care.
I've been to Korea to take pictures of them and it was awesome than I thought.so I want to try another one in Northeast Asia. the decision is Japan.:) Please let me know some fantastic specific places!
Every corner of the country.

landscapeliving answers:

Kinkakuji (Kyoto, Japan)
Himeiji Castle (Himeiji, Japan)
Tokyo Tower (best to go at night)
Todaiji Temple (Nara, Japan)

Those are the ones I can think of at the moment, for more ideas check out my blog (in my profile) as I am currently travelling in Japan.

Mandy asks…

what is the best type of film for shooting landscape photos.?

I'd like to know the brand and ISO rating for the film, as well as the film details. and why you recommend it.

landscapeliving answers:

It really depends on the landscape and the amout of light you have to help you. On a sunny day with blue skies, I would love to use a Velvia (200) just because the blues can be dramatic on it and I love my landscapes that way. The Provia 100F is a good choice as well.

Mark asks…

whats the best techique in taking Landscape photos in the rain with out a trypod?

landscapeliving answers:

Umbrella

Maria asks…

How to get the best landscape photo (digital slr)?

We're going on a hot air balloon ride this Tuesday. I'm pretty good at most photography, but my landscape shots sometimes fall short...looking hazy, etc.

I've got a D80 with a nikkor 18-200mm VR lens...do you have any specific advice that will help me get great landscape shots?

The ride takes place early in the morning, just after sunrise. It's supposed to be a very sunny day.

landscapeliving answers:

First, you should have a UV/Haze filter on your lens. I suggest one in a "thin" or "slim" mount" to prevent possible vignetting at 18mm. Choose from Hoya, B+W, Singh-Ray, Tiffen or Heliopan.

You should also be using the lens hood made for your lens. The hood will prevent stray light from causing lens flare.

You should also carry your circular polarizer.

If you want better landscapes when shooting on the ground, use a tripod. This allows you to use a lower ISO and a smaller f-stop. You can use the camera's self-timer to release the shutter. With my camera on a tripod, I use ISO 100 and a 21mm lens at f16. I know, from experience, that if I focus my 21mm lens at 6 feet at f16 everything from 2' 2" to infinity will be in focus. If you'd like to compute depth of field for your lens at various focal lengths and f-stops just go to:

http://www.dofmaster.com/dofjs.html

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