Beginner Landscape Photography Guide: How to Capture Stunning Scenery

We are fortunate to live on this beautiful planet Earth, filled with breathtaking landscapes that beg to be photographed. Even better? The same scene can be captured in endless ways as you grow in your craft, try new equipment, and explore creative composition styles. And this beginner landscape photography guide will help you approach landscape photography with confidence and creativity. Discover three simple, practical tips to elevate your outdoor shots.

In This Article, You Will Learn How To:

• Plan your landscape shoots through research
• Make your photos stand out with thoughtful composition
• Choose between wide-angle and telephoto lenses
• Use perspective to create depth and drama
• Build confidence in your photo-making process

TIP 1: Do Your Research Before You Go

Arriving at a new location with camera in hand can be exhilarating—and overwhelming. To avoid the “I want to shoot everything” syndrome and come away with images that match your vision, preparation is key.

Research the following before heading out:

• Weather conditions (and how they affect mood and light)
• Sunrise and sunset times
• Terrain and accessibility
• Transportation options
• Local regulations or restrictions

Following other photographers via social media or online galleries can also offer inspiration. Don’t hesitate to reach out—photography is a community sport, and many are happy to share insights. Explore Tamron’s blog for many articles on landscape photography.

TIP 2: Use Composition to Make Your Shot Unique

Even if 100 photographers gather at the same scenic viewpoint, each will likely walk away with a different image. Why? Composition.

Here are a few creative ways to approach composition:

• Leading lines: Use natural or manmade lines to draw the eye
• Foreground elements: Add rocks, flowers, or texture for depth
• Rule of thirds: Avoid placing the horizon dead center
• Perspective: Go low or shoot from above to shift the viewer’s experience
• Scale: Include a person, tree, or object to show size relationships

Example Tip: Using a wide-angle lens? Angle it lower to the ground and include a foreground subject to emphasize foreground-midground-background separation.

TIP 3: Choose the Right Lens for the Landscape

Most people reach for a wide-angle lens when photographing landscapes—and for good reason.

Wide-angles offer:

• Expansive perspectives
• Dramatic skies
• Layered foregrounds

However, don’t underestimate the power of a telephoto lens.

Telephotos are ideal for:

• Compressing elements in a scene to bring layers closer together
• Isolating distant subjects
• Emphasizing detail in mountain ranges, trees, or weather patterns

Pro Insight: Wide-angles help you tell the whole story, but telephotos let you focus on the details that often go unnoticed.

Final Thoughts

As highlighted in this beginner landscape photography guide, the most important thing is to enjoy the process. Plan ahead, explore different compositions, and experiment with various lenses. The more you shoot, the more your personal style will take shape.

Learn more about Tamron lenses for landscape photography at an authorized Tamron dealer in your area or visit the TAMRON Store today.

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