A landscape photography requires attention to place, to light, to time, to directions, and so many more. It is possible that a landscape photographer cannot escape multi-tasking, at least while on a shoot. But some of that pressure can be relieved by planning ahead, particularly in scouting locations. There are a number of different methods that can contribute to the “perfect” photo.
First, having some idea of the area you want to photograph can help narrow down the options. Once you have a location in mind, there are a number of different mapping programs and apps that can give you a good idea of what you may find there. There is even the option of paper maps to determine roads and topography. And certainly the various maps can give you information on how to get to the location. But some electronic options can tell you the times of sunrise and sunset, plot the specific angle of light, and even give good ideas about potential vantage points to set up the camera.
Beyond the mapping options, there are photography internet forums and social media posts that can aid in discovering new places to photograph. Some may even inform you about the best days of the year or specific locations that give the best views. Other photographers are usually not selfish but will share all kinds of information. After all, every photograph of a location is unique. Nothing in nature ever stays the same.
One of my favorite locations scouting techniques is simply serendipity. When I visit someplace, I look for new angles of view or a scene that can capture the imagination. Often I will notice a location where I want to shoot and will make plans to visit the area again with my camera. Sometimes I will take some test shots with my cell phone to see how (or IF) the scene may translate to a photograph. A measure of success with the phone tells me that it’s definitely worth the time and effort to return.
Recently I visited a friend’s camp. Some of the views were wonderful. So I took some shot with my phone (reproduced above) to see what might be the possibilities. The day was very overcast and grey, so the sky was v washed out and nondescript. The leaf colors were at least a week or ten days away from peak color. But I was pleased with the test shot results. This is clearly a location to return to for a photo shoot. My location scouting technique rewarded me with a new place to shoot and some ideas about a better time. Perhaps one of these techniques will work out well for you, too.