{"id":132584,"date":"2019-11-20T10:44:57","date_gmt":"2019-11-20T10:44:57","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/amateurphotographer.co.uk\/?p=132584"},"modified":"2021-05-14T13:11:44","modified_gmt":"2021-05-14T12:11:44","slug":"how-to-photograph-black-white-winter-landscapes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/other.kelsey.host\/amateurphotographer\/technique\/landscape_photography-technique\/how-to-photograph-black-white-winter-landscapes\/","title":{"rendered":"How to photograph black & white winter landscapes"},"content":{"rendered":"

As the days turn grey and the nights draw in, it’s the perfect opportunity to capture the surrounding landscape in beautiful black and white. Read on for tips from three of the UK’s top landscape photographers on how to photograph winter landscapes in black & white.<\/p>\n

Paul Sanders on how to photograph black and white winter landscapes<\/h2>\n\t\t
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Credit: Paul Sanders<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n

1. Footprints<\/h2>\n

Nothing destroys a potentially beautiful photograph like a set of footprints, usually those of the photographer trying to decide on the best composition. I always work towards something and tread lightly, perhaps walking the long way around the edge of a field. I spend time thinking my shots through before I even venture into an area of pristine snow.<\/p>\n

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Credit: Paul Sanders<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n

2. Light<\/h2>\n

There is no such thing as bad light \u2013 light is what it is and we should be grateful we can see it. Flat light works better for me than the wonderful golden light I see in others\u2019 work. Flat light is just as valuable as golden light because it lowers contrast and loses shadows, which can be useful when shooting in snow that\u2019s been walked on.<\/p>\n

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3. Wrap up<\/h2>\n

This almost goes without saying but dress sensibly. When walking to a location you might get warm so pack spare layers that you can wrap up in when you stop. Standing still will create snowy masterpieces but will cause your body temperature to drop, especially in your hands and toes.<\/p>\n

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Credit: Paul Sanders<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n

4. Weather<\/h2>\n

The uncertainty of winter weather is something we should embrace. If it\u2019s cloudy one minute, the sun will burst through and deliver spotlight illumination, or the rain will be backlit as it tumbles from the heavens. Adapt to the changes and enjoy the opportunities they present, and you won\u2019t be disappointed.<\/p>\n

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Credit: Paul Sanders<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n

5. Get up, get out<\/h2>\n

Whatever the weather, get out of bed and go. Pictures don\u2019t take themselves and the biggest barrier to successful winter shots is our comfy cosy bed. Get out of bed an hour earlier than you think you need and get on the road. Prep your kit the night before so you don\u2019t leave anything behind. With any luck you\u2019ll be back before breakfast!<\/p>\n

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Credit: Paul Sanders<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n

6. Simplify<\/h2>\n

We all try to cram too many elements into our work. I prefer to compose from the inside out, starting with my main subject and expanding my view. I use this so that I don\u2019t become obsessed with certain elements that in the end detract from the story I\u2019m telling rather than add value.<\/p>\n

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7. Patience<\/h2>\n

Patience is the biggest break you can give yourself. I often turn up at my chosen location to find things looking good but not quite feeling the power of the place. Waiting, watching and enjoying the experience will yield a better connection and deeper vision of a location. Be patient in all things.<\/p>\n

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In my kit bag I always have:<\/h3>\n