Take Your Position

I got off of work early today, so I had the chance to go out for a hike, which allowed me some time to take some photos. I headed to Morrow Mountain State Park in Albemarle, N.C.  There were a few buildings and structures on site that had local area stone facades. I always feel that an important part of every photograph is how it is positioned. You always want to make sure that your subject is the focal point of the photograph.

Morrow Mountain State Park. North Carolina

Grey Days

I had the opportunity to spend a few days in the Appalachian Mountains this weekend. Each day was cloud filled, sadly not the picturesque puffy white clouds that one enjoys to look at. I was very glad that I had a waterproof bag to keep my camera in, as rain showers popped up on a moments notice throughout each day. Every chance to get out and take some photos is always good, even if you don't come away with great photographs. Practice never hurts.

  

South Fork of New River

Polarizing

After battling rain storms this week in the area, I finally had the chance to get out and take some photos. Photographing scenes that include water can be tricky. I recommend using a polarizing filter with your lens. A polarizing filter can be purchased separately and vary in cost. This greatly assists with dealing with unwanted reflections and colors coming off of the water. The website Cambridge in Colour provides a great webpage that has more in-depth information about how polarizing filters work and how to use them.

Big Horse Creek, Ashe County, North Carolina

     

The Effects of Weather

Weather plays a critical part in the outdoor photography experience. This week has shown how weather can hinder opportunities of taking memorable scenic photos. It has been either storming or overcast every afternoon this week in Central and Western North Carolina, which has taken away my chances of getting out and snapping some shots. There are photographers that take advantage of adverse weather conditions and will make the rain storms and other types of storms the focal point of their photographs. Weather photography is a part of outdoor photography by itself. Sadly, the storms so far this week have not been very photo worthy. They have been more like plain old rain showers.

One needs to remember that the majority of cameras are not waterproof and are very susceptible to water damage. Always store your camera in a waterproof case when heading into the outdoors to take photos. Even if it is not calling for rain, it will reduce possible accidents involving liquids entering your camera. 

Equipment:

Sony NEX-5

Camera: As far as digital cameras go, there are a variety to choose from. I currently use a Sony NEX-5, myself. The small body of the camera makes it easy to carry in a backpack or bag. The camera offers automatic and manual exposure modes, an APS-C HD CMOS Sensor, as well as a panoramic feature. I would advise someone who is looking to purchase a new camera to find a camera with the features and overall feel that works best for them.     



Other equipment:

• Tripod- A tripod is very useful to combat the problems that stem from a shaky camera, which is a leading factor to poor looking photographs. It is also useful when using a long exposure. 
• Lens- Having various interchangeable lens provides the ability to increase or decrease the focal length to the subject of the photograph.
  
• Lens Filters- Using lens filters can greatly enhance the outcome photographs. Some basic lens filters include Polarizing filters, UV/Haze filters, Cooling & Warming filters, and Neutral Density filters. 
• File Storage-Today's digital cameras require a storage device, such as a memory card or memory stick. When purchasing a storage device, keep in mind the amount of photos that you plan to take and store on the camera's memory device, before you'll have the chance to upload the photos to your computer.
  

Taking photographs of outdoor scenery is a great way to capture memories and to share experiences with others. As an avid fly-fisherman and traveler, I find myself in picturesque outdoor locations throughout the year and I attempt to capture the beauty of those locations with my camera. This blog intends to provide others with ideas, information, and examples in regards to outdoor photography. 

Fort Fisher, North Carolina