Summer landscape photography can be a challenge, but it's not all doom and gloom. While the lack of atmospheric texture and the harsh midday sun might seem like a death sentence for landscape photographers, there are still plenty of opportunities to capture stunning images. Here are some tips to help you make the most of the summer months and keep your camera out of storage.
Capture the Milky Way
Summer nights might be short, but they can be incredibly rewarding. Astrophotography is a challenging but rewarding pursuit, and capturing the Milky Way rising above the horizon is a sight to behold. Invest in a portable star tracker to extend your exposure times and capture more detail. Just remember to be cautious when venturing out into remote, dark locations. Tell someone where you're going, bring a headlamp and warm layers, and watch your footing in the dark.
Photograph Passing Storms
Summer often brings unstable weather patterns, and that's a photographer's dream. Late-afternoon heat can cause cumulonimbus clouds to form, leading to dramatic lightning storms. Use weather-tracking apps to monitor the storms from a safe distance. Remember, lightning can strike well ahead of a storm, so never position yourself in an exposed area. Instead, photograph from indoors or inside your vehicle. You might even be treated to incredible sunsets right after the storm passes.
Look Beyond the Visible Light Spectrum
If the midday sun is too harsh, don't despair. Try infrared photography with an infrared filter. It will transform your woodland scenes, turning green foliage white and blue skies deep black. Look for strong geometric shapes or minimalist scenes to create ethereal and surreal images.
Watch the Light Change
Use a 10-15-stop ND filter to create long exposures during the day, capturing the soft light as the sun moves across the sky or clouds pass in front of it. This technique turns choppy water into smooth, glassy surfaces, creating surreal-looking images. It requires patience, but the results are worth it.
Experiment With Alternative Techniques
Summer is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and try new techniques. Explore multiple exposures and ICM (intentional camera movement). Most mirrorless cameras and some older DSLRs have built-in multiple exposure modes. Experiment with different compositions and blending modes to create unique images. For ICM, set your camera to a slow shutter speed and move it up or down between shots for a blurred, abstract effect. Combine both techniques for ultimate control and creativity.
Embrace the Challenge
Summer landscape photography is all about solving problems and getting creative. Don't let the lack of atmospheric texture and the harsh sun discourage you. Instead, use these challenges as opportunities to experiment with new techniques and gear. Keep your camera out of storage and embrace the season's unique opportunities. With a bit of creativity and perseverance, you'll be rewarded with stunning summer landscapes that will make the effort worthwhile.
