Photographing Nature and Landscapes

Tea Plantation, Malaysia 
Photograph by Michael Camilleri, My Shot

Nature and landscapes are a favorite photographic subject, evoking memories of travel and senses experienced in a particular place and at a particular moment. But nature photography can be challenging. In this gallery, get expert tips and learn what you should consider when photographing the natural world.

Here, a farmer at a tea plantation in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia, uses an umbrella to keep himself dry while riding his bike.
Photo Tip: Learn to appreciate overcast days. Their diffused light can make for increased color saturation in your images.


Twilight, Nauset Beach

Photograph by James P. Blair, National Geographic

Twilight falls on wind-etched sand dunes on Nauset Beach, Massachusetts.

Photo Tip: Use texture to communicate your personal impressions of the scene. Raking angles of early or late sun usually reveal texture best.



Albatross, Falkland Islands

Photograph by Frans Lanting, National Geographic

A black-browed albatross and its mate work together to forage and nest in the Falkland Islands.

Photo Tip: When photographing birds, try for a natural background without manmade objects such as utility poles, wires, fences, and buildings, which compete for attention.





Fall Trees, Utah

Photograph by Robert Hooper, My Shot

Leaves turn golden during autumn in southern Utah.

Photo Tip: With a good tripod, you can be set up and ready when the lighting is right. But don’t be afraid to handhold at slow shutter speeds—the serendipitous effects can be wonderful.





Svalbard, Norway

Photograph by Paul Nicklen, National Geographic

The Hornsund fjord is viewed through glacier ice in Svalbard, Norway’s Arctic archipelago.

Photo Tip: When you decide what makes you want to photograph a place, think of adjectives to describe it—and include a detail in your photograph that conveys that adjective.