Try these simple tips to take better landscape photos this year

Landscape photography is a journey of patience, persistence, and, sometimes, embracing the unexpected. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, we’ve all been there—standing in front of a scene, hoping to capture the perfect shot, only to find the conditions don’t cooperate. But what if the key to better landscapes isn’t new technical skills?

In this video, landscape photographer Mark Denney shares his New Year’s resolutions for taking better landscape photographs in 2025. The main takeaway is to develop your eye and your mindset, not to spend more money on equipment.

Let go of preconceived notions

Mark says that one of the biggest lessons he learned from his time in the Italian Dolomites is this: don’t get locked into a single idea. He explains how he was determined to capture a specific reflection shot. The conditions, however, had other plans. The water level was low, the light flat, and the scene wasn’t coming together.

Instead of packing up, Mark spent nearly two hours experimenting—changing angles, playing with compositions, and waiting for the light to shift. Though the results weren’t what he envisioned, the real magic happened on the walk back. A quick glance over his shoulder revealed a fleeting moment of perfect light illuminating the peaks. With no time to set up a tripod, Mark snapped a handheld shot—and it turned out to be one of his favourites from the trip.

While preparation is crucial, it’s equally important to stay flexible. If your “dream shot” isn’t materializing, turn around, explore, and be open to serendipitous moments. Sometimes, the best shots are the ones you don’t plan for.

Experiment with new styles

If you’ve been shooting landscapes for a while, it’s easy to fall into a set routine. For Mark, this meant focusing almost exclusively on grand, wide-angle scenes. But during a trip to Colorado, he explains how he challenged himself to try something different.

Instead of chasing dramatic vistas, Mark captured more intimate, abstract scenes—like leaves scattered against weathered trees or the quiet beauty of post-storm landscapes. These shots weren’t Mark’s usual style, but they pushed him creatively and taught him how to see beauty in unexpected places.

Try a new technique, style, or subject. Whether it’s macro, black-and-white, or abstract compositions, stepping outside your comfort zone can unlock creative potential and keep your work fresh.

Be patient

Landscape photography rewards those who are willing to stay and work a scene. On multiple occasions, Mark says that he arrived at a location with less-than-ideal conditions, only to capture his best shots after hours of persistence—or in the final fleeting moments before packing up.

• Camera Settings: Use a small aperture (like f/11 or f/16) for maximum depth of field, and adjust your ISO and shutter speed to maintain sharpness. Always shoot in RAW to maximize editing flexibility.
• Gear Choices: A sturdy tripod is invaluable for long exposures and low-light conditions. Carry a polarizing filter to enhance colours and reduce reflections, and consider a telephoto lens for isolating details in the scene.
• Creative Techniques: Experiment with different heights, angles, and focal lengths. Don’t be afraid to get low to the ground or climb for a unique perspective.

Embrace the unexpected

Mark says that some of his favourite images were taken when he least expected them—during a lull in shooting or while helping workshop participants in less-than-ideal conditions. The lesson? Even on days when the weather is challenging or the light isn’t perfect, there’s always potential for a great shot if you stay alert and ready.

This really is the main takeaway from Mark’s video: stay open-minded and alert to new ideas and opportunities. When the pre-conceived image you set out to create doesn’t quite materialise, you can easily pivot to capturing something different. And it may be even better than you’d imagined!

What will you do differently in 2025?

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