This week I learned about landscape photography. The
instructor of the MOOC related back to a discussion about light. He explained a little bit about reflected light in water
scenes. He also used a slower shutter speed to show motion of a train in the
background of his scene. He also talked about using a filter, which is something I don’t
believe I can do with my camera, as it seems that a special lens is needed for
this. I don’t feel that I learned a whole lot about landscape photography from
this section. However, I did have the opportunity to go to an area close to Deer Valley
for a field trip, so I was able to experiment with some landscape scenes.
This first shot was taken using my camera's "landscape" mode. It put focus on the plant in the foreground, which puts less emphasis on the background. I feel that the plant is overexposed and looks a bit out of place.
This shot of the same scene was taken using the "close-up" mode. This puts the plant in sharper focus, with a blurred background. I like this photo better.
Then I spotted a large tree in the area that stood out. I found the shape of the branches to be interesting as they reach out in all directions. This photo was taken with the sun behind the tree to create a daytime silhouette effect. I feel that the "black" branches emphasize the deep blue colour of the sky with white clouds.
Valerie, your pictures are beautiful! I especially love the skeleton of the tree against the morning sky.
ReplyDeleteI have always had a love affair with photography. One of my younger sisters seems to be a natural behind a lens leaving me feeling extremely envious! I would like to believe that have an eye for taking beautiful pictures. Unfortunately, the camera I have and the tremor in my hands that seems to appear when I press the button, has me producing photographs of blurred color and shapes.
Once finished with my graduate studies, I would love to take a MOOC photography class. How have you found your experience? Any recommendations?
Thanks so much for your lovely words. Like you, I have always had a passion for photography. When I go to craft sales, I always find myself gravitating toward the booths with photos. I always wanted to learn how to take beautiful pictures, so this class provided a fantastic excuse to purchase an SLR camera! Even though it was pricey, I just had to bite the bullet and do it, and I don't regret it for a second.
DeleteI have really enjoyed the experience of learning more about photography. There is a wealth of online information to help you learn. The only thing I am finding is that there is WAY more to photography than I ever could have imagined! It can be quite overwhelming at times. My project will serve more as an introduction to get comfortable with my camera. It will take many years to become proficient, I am sure!
The MOOC (https://www.udemy.com/karl-taylors-free-photography-course/) that I am taking is ok. It uses text documents as well as video created by the instructor. I find that some of the techniques he explains are a bit more advanced than I need right now. I also follow a blog (bestphotolessons.com) that has some good technical information.
Good luck with getting started with photography! I think if you have a passion for it, then you will get as much enjoyment out of it as I have.