What Makes a Good Landscape Photo
When I’m out with my camera, chasing that perfect landscape shot, I’m always reminded that it’s not just about pointing the lens at a pretty scene. A good landscape photo tells a story, draws you in, and makes you feel like you’re standing right there. Over the years, I’ve found there are a few key elements that consistently make the difference: composition, perspective, and subject.
Composition
For me, composition is the backbone of a strong landscape photograph. I often lean on the rule of thirds to balance the frame, placing the horizon line or a key subject off-center to give the image more depth. Leading lines, like a winding road or a river, help guide the viewer’s eye into the scene, making the photo feel immersive. I also pay close attention to framing—using trees, rocks, or even shadows to naturally direct focus. It’s amazing how small compositional tweaks can turn a flat image into one that really sings.
Perspective
Perspective is where creativity kicks in. Most people see landscapes at eye level, so I like to experiment—sometimes getting low to the ground to exaggerate foreground details, other times climbing higher for a more expansive view. Changing perspective adds drama and interest, and it can completely alter the mood of the photo. A low angle might make a mountain look more towering and powerful, while a higher vantage point can showcase the scale of an entire valley.
Subject
While landscapes are often about wide, sweeping views, I believe every great photo needs a subject. It could be a lone tree, a mountain peak, a dramatic cloud formation, or even a person in the distance for scale. A subject gives the viewer something to anchor to, preventing the photo from feeling like just a random snapshot of scenery. Whenever I frame a shot, I ask myself: what’s the story here, and what element best tells it?
Light and Atmosphere
Of course, none of this works without good light. I’m a big fan of shooting during the golden hours—just after sunrise or before sunset—when the light is soft, warm, and directional. Mist, fog, or even stormy skies can add mood and atmosphere, turning an ordinary scene into something unforgettable. Sometimes, it’s about patience—waiting for the light to hit just right can be the difference between a decent photo and one that truly stands out.
My Approach
When I set out to capture a landscape, I try to slow down and really connect with the environment. I walk around, look from different angles, and consider what emotion I want the photo to convey. Is it the serenity of a calm lake? The drama of storm clouds rolling over the hills? Or the vastness of a desert stretching into the horizon? By thinking about these questions, I find my shots feel more intentional and personal.