Page 37 - Australian Photography - September 2017

OPI N ION: L A N DSCAPE PHOTOGR A PH Y

new lands so different from my own. It’s what opens
my eyes to entire new fields of photography (such as
astrophotography and underwater photography), en-
couraging me to try my hand at them myself.
However, it’s worth noting that photography on social
media is heavily influenced by what is known as Survi-
vor Bias. Which is essentially a filter that only allows the
best images through, i.e. the survivors. What we don’t
LEFT: Arthur River, see are the thousands of images that didn’t make it. The
Tasmania. Living on
Australia’s East Coast, poorly composed, the blown-out highlights or even the
experiencing the sun set previous outings where the photographer didn’t take a
over the ocean is still a single image. This isn’t inherently bad or manipulative
rather novel experience. – everyone wants to show their best work – but it does
I used a focus stacked distort our view of the work pros can produce.
exposure to capture
the detail in the striking While browsing through all the impressive imag-
foreground rocks. Sony ery, you can’t help but compare your own images to
a7R2, FE 24-70mm f/4 those from the professionals. You can’t help but sus-
lens. 0.6s @ f14, ISO 100. pect there might be one hack they know and you don’t.
One secret that lets them capture awe-inspiring land-
ABOVE: Kiama, NSW.
Using a slow shutter speed, scapes each and every day.
I panned my lens in the
direction of the crashing THE SECRET
waves to add a sense of Want to know the secret? It’s time, it’s determination,
movement to the shot. it’s dusting yourself off after you fail – and you will –
This image was taken
moments after sunrise, again and again.
with the morning sun Rather than being disheartened from seemingly
dancing across the ocean unsuccessful photo adventures, instead try to relish
to illuminate the sapphire the pursuit of creation itself. Get out and practice as
blue waves from behind. much as you can. Consider the surrounding scene,
Sony a7R2, FE 70-300mm
F4.5-5.6 G lens. 1/13s @ consider the various compositions, and build your
f9, ISO 100. own skill set. Piece by piece, day by day.

| 37 | SEPTEMBER 2017 | AUSTRALIANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM