Four ways to beat challenging compositions in epic locations

Have you ever been in a place so stunning that you just know in your heart that your photos can’t even begin to do it justice? Yep, Grand Canyon, I’m looking at you here! But joking aside, this can be a real issue for those of us striving to take great landscape images and can become a bit of a creative block if we aren’t careful.

Luckily, there are some steps we can take that break down this overwhelm into something a little more manageable. In this video from Adorama, Prince McClinton breaks down his tips for crafting impactful compositions by simplifying scenes and guiding the viewer’s eye.

Simplify the scene to amplify impact

Landscapes often present vast and complex visuals, from rugged rock formations to dense brush. Simplifying your composition is crucial to creating strong, focused images. Prince suggests identifying what initially catches your eye and building your composition around it. You don’t have to fit everything into one photo. In fact, you probably shouldn’t!

• Focus on a Subject: Treat a specific element of the scene, such as a striking rock formation or a lone tree, as the centrepiece of your shot. Zoom in tightly and frame it like a portrait.
• Eliminate Distractions: By removing unnecessary elements, you allow your subject to take centre stage. This creates clean, powerful compositions that naturally draw in viewers.

Use framing for depth and focus

Framing is a versatile tool that enhances your image by naturally guiding the viewer’s eye to the subject. You can find naturally occurring frames everywhere once you start looking for them.

• Incorporate Natural Frames: Use trees, rocks, or shadows around the edges of the scene to create a natural frame. This technique not only emphasizes the subject but also adds depth and a sense of place.
• Position Framing Thoughtfully: For example, capturing the soft glow of light on a boulder framed by slabs of granite can transform an ordinary scene into a layered masterpiece.

Leverage the Rule of Thirds (and all the rest)

Yep, those rules exist for a reason. If you’re struggling with composition, it can be helpful to go back to basics and think in terms of lines, shapes and patterns. This abstract approach can take an overly grandiose and complex scene back to a more manageable series of building blocks.

The rule of thirds divides the frame into nine equal sections using two horizontal and two vertical lines. Placing your subject along these lines or at their intersections creates balanced yet dynamic compositions.

• Placement Tips: Position horizons, climbers, or key elements along these lines for natural visual flow.
• Go Beyond the Grid: While the rule of thirds is an excellent starting point, don’t limit yourself. Experiment with breaking the rule to add intrigue and tell a unique story.

Experiment and stay creative

Landscape composition isn’t just about following rules; it’s about using the rules as tools to craft compelling stories. Ultimately, you just need to put less pressure on yourself and enjoy being surrounded by such amazing scenery. The photos will happen, and it’s the memories that are the most important.

---