Photographing People in the Landscape

Fisherman at Sunset; Morro Bay, CA © Kerry Drager

Hi Everyone,

Although many scenic shots can stand on their own, others can come alive with a human presence. Pictured small in the scene, a person or two can show scale, boost energy, and create mood and depth. A hiker, bicyclist, tourist, or even a fisherman can add a sense of being there, by helping viewers relate to what they're seeing. And a tiny figure set amid a towering backdrop makes a nice twist on classic landscape photography.

In his exciting new book - Understanding Digital Photography - BetterPhoto.com™ instructor/photographer Bryan Peterson has this to say on the subject:

"The human shape is perhaps the most unmistakable shape in all the world. As a result, when you include its shape in any large and expansive landscape, an obvious sense of scope and scale results. This happens regardless of whether that landscape is a nature scene or something more urban or industrial. But I often tell my many nature landscape students that if they one day hope to make money with their camera, they would be wise - whenever possible - to shoot another exposure with a lone figure in that same landscape."

That's just one of countless tips and techniques in Bryan's fine book, which is Book of the Month at BetterPhoto - order it and receive U.S. shipping!

That's it for now. Have a great week of photography!
Kerry Drager

Comments

[Adrian]

Good points all...I have to say though that my biggest problem is taking a shot that DOESN'T have people in it. Seems everything I want a photo of has 52,000 people in front of it...oh well :)

[Kerry Drager]

Hi Adrian,
Thanks for the nice comment! A tip for busy tourist areas: Try to get there in early morning or very late day ... fewer people AND better light! Thanks again, Adrian! Kerry