After 12 days on assignment in Nepal with Canon Master Richard I’Anson, 2015 Travel Photo Scholarship winner Mahadev Rojas Torres got more than a few tips on how to capture that perfect shot.
Photo © Mahadev Rojas Torres
In Nepal, you have a variety of interesting subjects. But landscapes – almost always enhanced by the Himalayas – will surely become your priority.
Richard, with over 30 years of experience as a professional travel photographer, possesses an ocean of knowledge.
During our 12-day assignment to Nepal, he openly and generously shared this knowledge with me. He answered all my questions and constantly asked to check if I was shooting with the right camera configurations.
He passed onto me many years of expertise. I hope to do the same for you here with 5 tips I learnt from the scholarship.
- Do Your Research
- Wake Up Early and Rest Late
- Keep Your Gear Light
- Don’t Just Take One Shot
- Be Prepared for the Cold in Nepal
1. Do Your Research
Collect as much detail of the places you’ll visit as possible. This’ll save you time on the ground so you don’t have to deal with logistics.
Most importantly, find out about the weather you’ll be facing during the trip. Especially in Nepal, this is important to consider, as it typically has two monsoon seasons a year and you need to be prepared.
When you’re on the ground, ask the locals for advice and take time to wander through the place in search of the highest viewpoints.
It’s also important to properly acknowledge what you see, as shooting mountains randomly is different to shooting Mount Everest specifically.
2. Wake Up Early and Rest Late
The great shots that you’re looking for will most probably be enhanced by a great light – especially sunrise or sunset. So be prepared for that perfect lighting opportunity.
You must already be positioned with your tripod, have the right camera settings, and fully aware before this moment.
The window of opportunity is smaller than you think and you don’t want to miss that perfect shot fiddling with settings.
I also learnt the importance of a remote shutter release. Not only can you avoid moving your camera (especially for those long shutter speeds), but saves those valuable seconds of the light while you play with your subject, instead of the camera self-timer.
3. Keep Your Gear Light
Whether your subject is the Himalayas, or the cities, your vantage point is the key to a great shot.
Landscape photography isn’t only about a clear view and great light, it’s also whether you’re in the right place to take your shots.
The higher your vantage point, the better and clearer the view. So, be ready for a hike. This’ll be easier if you’re not carrying complex and heavy gear.
Landscape camera lenses are heavier than standard zoom lenses, so your camera, a couple of lenses, and your tripod will be enough for you to carry.
4. Don’t Just Take One Shot
Once you find your subject, play with your focal length and composition, and try to get as many shots as possible. This’ll give you more opportunities to get the great image you want.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and find a fresh perspective on a subject.
5. Be Prepared for the Cold in Nepal
When you’re waiting for a specific light to hit your subject, you may have to wait for some time. So always be prepared with winter gear – particularly at high points.
Gloves are very important. Fingerless gloves will allow you to manipulate your camera settings while shooting in cold places.
Want an experience like Mahadev's?
Keep an eye out for our next Travel Photography Scholarship or get some more great tips here.
1 Comment
I own a Canon 5200 and I'm not a photographer by profession. I just need to know how to work it on my trip to Bali in the next 2 weeks.
I have to take pics for my business and need to capture fabrics n jewellery. Colors, patterns, design etc.
Can you help with tips on how to achieve this clearly with good lighting etc?
Thanks.