Nature photography is a branch of photography concerned with capturing the images, scenes, and textures found in nature. Animal, plants, landscapes, macros—all are suitable subjects for the nature photographer. It differs from other kind of photography in that the most important consideration is the aesthetic quality of the picture, which lends itself well to experimentation and creative expression. Nature photography is a diverse, ever-evolving art form. Some notable nature photographers are Frans Lanting, Galen Rowell, Eliot Porter and Art Wolfe.
Wildlife photography—one of the most popular forms of nature photography—focuses on capturing images of animals in their natural habitat. Some photographers use captive or controlled animals instead of animals in the wild, causing some to deny that this is true wildlife photography. Even when the subjects are actually wild other ethical concerns remain, such as the disruption of natural habitats.
The techniques used in wildlife photography differ from other kinds of nature photography. Wide apertures are often used to freeze the subject while blurring the background. Long-range telephoto lenses are also used to capture subjects from a distance.
In part due to the importance of aesthetic quality in the field, there is a lot of leeway in the artist’s style choices. Since accurate reproduction of the subject is not always necessary, a wide range of effects can be used. It is not uncommon for natural scenes to be captured in black-and-white or even oversaturated bright colors. This artistic freedom is what draws so many photographers into the field of nature photography in the first place.
Ken Wargo is a veteran project manager with experience in sales and finance. He is also an avid photographer who seeks to capture the beauty of the moment.
Wildlife photography—one of the most popular forms of nature photography—focuses on capturing images of animals in their natural habitat. Some photographers use captive or controlled animals instead of animals in the wild, causing some to deny that this is true wildlife photography. Even when the subjects are actually wild other ethical concerns remain, such as the disruption of natural habitats.
The techniques used in wildlife photography differ from other kinds of nature photography. Wide apertures are often used to freeze the subject while blurring the background. Long-range telephoto lenses are also used to capture subjects from a distance.
In part due to the importance of aesthetic quality in the field, there is a lot of leeway in the artist’s style choices. Since accurate reproduction of the subject is not always necessary, a wide range of effects can be used. It is not uncommon for natural scenes to be captured in black-and-white or even oversaturated bright colors. This artistic freedom is what draws so many photographers into the field of nature photography in the first place.
Ken Wargo is a veteran project manager with experience in sales and finance. He is also an avid photographer who seeks to capture the beauty of the moment.