The most interesting photos are
those that draw you in and make you feel like you are part of the scene. The easiest way to achieve this is to create
an image with foreground interest. While
the main body of the image is in the distance there is an object in the scene
that appears to be within arm’s reach.
This technique is especially effective in landscape photography.
Foreground interest images are easy
to achieve with any camera with a wide angle lens. Most good point-and-shoot
cameras will work if you zoom out as far as the camera will go. You may have to
test how close you can get to your foreground object to keep it in focus; three
feet should work but try getting closer if you like. If you are shooting with a
DSLR, you need to use the correct settings. Since everything in your image must be in sharp
focus, you need to use a lens wider than 35mm and a shut-down aperture (small opening/large number) to maximize
depth-of-field.
A focal length between 16mm
– 24mm is best with an aperture setting of f/22. If your shutter speed gets too
slow to avoid camera shake, increase your ISO or better yet, use a tripod. Put
your focus on manual and set it to 3 feet.
Now you just need to frame up your image. You will have to get within a foot or so of
your foreground item and don’t worry if some areas of your image do not appear
to be in focus when viewed through the view finder. The resulting image will be tack sharp from
front to back.
Look for items like flowers or foliage
to add color and detail. Foreground
interest does not have to be at the bottom of your image either. Try putting it
off to one side or along the top of your picture for a different look. This simple technique will take your
landscape photos from good to great in a snap.
