UPDATE: A new video just released reveals 11 critical photography mistakes that can drastically affect your images. Professional photographers Shannon and Nick Page highlight how common habits can lead to flat, uninspired photos, urging photographers to rethink their approach immediately.
This urgent advice comes as photographers gear up for holiday outings, where capturing stunning images is a top priority. The video, featuring practical tips, stresses the importance of adapting to your environment rather than sticking rigidly to preconceived notions of ‘the perfect shot.’
One of the first major points of emphasis is the risk of “tunnel vision.” This occurs when photographers become fixated on a long lens, such as a 400mm or 600mm, concentrating solely on tight frames and missing the broader story. A striking example is shared from Denali, where shooters clung to their long lenses and ignored the compelling scenes unfolding around them.
Instead, the video suggests switching to a shorter focal length to capture more dynamic and memorable images. “If you only practice ‘closer is better,’ you risk cropping the life out of your photos,” Shannon warns, emphasizing the need to include environmental context.
Additionally, the video stresses the importance of shooting with editing in mind. “Software is for finishing, not creating the photo from scratch,” Shannon states. Simple decisions—like protecting highlights and choosing cleaner backgrounds—can save hours of editing later.
Nick Page also addresses the mental aspect of photography, highlighting the danger of showing up with a single planned shot and ignoring changing conditions. This mindset often results in a memory card filled with “almost” shots instead of striking images.
Photographers should also consider two key ideas that could redefine their approach to shooting. First, light can matter more than location. This insight challenges the notion that iconic spots will guarantee great photos. Secondly, stubborn attempts to force photographs in uncooperative conditions typically yield poor results. Instead, the video encourages taking risks with your shots, as Page illustrates with an extreme example: using an underwater housing on a tripod for days to capture a unique frame.
The technical section of the video provides valuable insights into techniques like stacking, bracketing, and creating panoramas without relying solely on a tripod. It also introduces focus stacking to avoid soft images that occur from stopping down to f/22. For those shooting wildlife or landscapes, these tactics can significantly improve outcomes.
Moreover, the discussion shifts to focus modes, with Page advocating for manual focus in challenging situations rather than relying on automation. This strategy can be crucial when dealing with elements like branches or chaotic scenes that might steal focus from your subject.
Catch the full rundown of these eye-opening tips in the video above, as Alex Cooke, a Cleveland-based photographer and meteorologist, shares his insights on making the most of your photography endeavors. With the holiday season approaching, these strategies could transform your photography game and lead to breathtaking memories.
Photographers everywhere are encouraged to take this advice to heart and share their experiences, ensuring that they capture the beauty of the world around them. Stay tuned for more updates as the photography community embraces these essential insights!
