Travel Landscape - Skies |
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According to the time of the year, the
ever changing light, weather conditions, cloud formations and seasonal
changes provide an endless range of photographic opportunities when
photograph sky. Although sunsets are a favourite subject
for many photographers, not all sky shots need be taken at dusk, and in
fact many of the most effective shots are captured at different times
of the day.
The essential point to remember when
photographing skies is to judge the exposure so that the important
details, such as clouds, are recorded. A camera polarizing filter will help to
darken the sky while retaining the detail if the shot is of a blue sky
with puffy white clouds. A neutral density graduated filter could be
used to similar effect or, for real drama, combined with the polarizing
filter. As well as the neural density graduated filter, a graduated
color filter such as a tobacco graduated filter can be added. This will
turn the sky a sepia color while retaining the natural color of the
land.
When photographing an area you know well,
try to be in position early to take advantage of the changing light
patterns and the different effects this has on the sky. When shooting at sunset be prepared to work rapidly as the sun sets very quickly. Also be on the lookout for the changing color of the sky. Once the sun has set the sky can deepen in color considerably. At sunset watch for light playing on clouds; an aura of light form these will look far more dramatic than a clear sky. As exposures will be quite long at this time of day a tripod is essential, and a cable release preferable.
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