CoreVibe Photography Tips for Enhancing Outdoor Photography
A great photo can evoke all sorts of emotions from a trip, no matter how short it may be. A trip of just a few days can become a lifetime of memories, and the right photo can make those moments last forever. Although I’m not a professional photographer, I’ve accumulated some useful tips over the years that have helped me take clearer, more powerful photos on my adventures. Here are the tools and techniques I rely on to take great photos.
Essential Gear
Before we get to the tips, here’s a brief overview of the gear you’ll need to have on hand:
- Cell phone or camera
- Remote control
- Lens cleaning cloth
- Waterproof case
- Mobile power supply
- Short charging cable
Shooting in landscape mode
When you’re out in nature, shoot in landscape mode whenever possible. By placing your phone on its side, you have more room to capture the expansive beauty around your subject. This also allows you to make better crops when editing your photos later. I find myself shooting in landscape mode 90% of the time – shooting in landscape feels like it captures the scene more fully. That’s why “landscape” photos are called “landscape” photos – they’re great for outdoor shots.
Utilize Sunlight
Light is everything in photography, especially when shooting outdoors, and the sun is your best friend – if you know how to use it. Pay attention to the position and intensity of the sun. For most shots, you want the sun to shine from behind, softly illuminating your subject. Backlighting can produce dramatic effects, but most of the time, direct sunlight can be too harsh. It’s best to take photos in the morning or evening when the light is soft. Cloudy days provide beautiful, even light that creates a moody atmosphere.
Master the rule of thirds
The rule of thirds is an important rule for changing the rules of composition. Using the grid in your viewfinder, place your subject in one-third of the frame – either the left or right third will work. The remaining two-thirds should be left white to create a sense of balance and space. The same is true for the horizon – whether it’s mountains, water or the sky – aligning them in the top or bottom third of the photo creates a more pleasing image. Sticking to the rule of thirds will make your photos more attractive and balanced.
Straighten the Horizon
It’s easy to forget about the horizon line when you’re focused on your subject in the foreground. But tilt it a little and the whole picture will be out of balance. Always keep your eye on the horizon, whether it’s a ridge, a line of trees, or a building level with the sidewalk. Use the grid lines in the viewfinder to keep the picture level, and don’t worry if the scene isn’t perfect. Leave a little space around your subject so you can make adjustments during the editing process.
Add people to your photos
Landscapes are amazing, but they can be enlivened by adding people to the photo. This will give the viewer a more visual sense of the scene and allow them to imagine themselves in it. Characters also evoke emotion and tell a story, whether they are standing in front of an expansive backdrop or immersed in nature. Adding the element of people can turn a simple landscape into something more personal and compelling.
Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be on your way to taking photos that capture the true essence of adventure. And don’t forget, practice makes perfect, so keep shooting, experimenting and improving your skills. For more tips on capturing the perfect outdoor adventure, check out our Essential Tips for Camping in the Alvord Desert.
CoreVibe Tips for Wonderful Adventure Photography
1. Shooting with ease using a tripod and remote control
A lightweight tripod and remote control are essential for smooth, steady shots during your adventures. With these tools, you can easily get the perfect photo.
2. Add people to your images to add a sense of proportion and emotion
Adding people to your landscape photos can add a sense of scale and make the scene seem grander or more intimate, depending on the mood you’re trying to convey. A lone figure in the distance can make your photo stand out and tell a more compelling story.
3. Play with perspective and focus
Anyone can take a photo from eye level, but to make your photo stand out, experiment with different angles and focal points. Crouch down and focus on a flower or texture in the foreground while fading the mountains into the background. Or, shoot from above to capture the entire scene. Don’t be afraid to move your body and adjust your focus – creativity leads to unique and compelling results.
4. Give your subject room to breathe
When photographing people or animals, especially if they’re not looking directly at the camera, place them on one side of the frame. Leave space in front of them to suggest the direction they are looking or moving. This technique gives the photo a sense of movement and entices the viewer to imagine the world beyond the frame.
5. Capture natural moments
Posed photos can sometimes look stiff and awkward. Instead, try to capture people in their natural state. If posed photographs are necessary, try to keep them light-hearted and avoid making your subjects feel uncomfortable. Subtly instructing and encouraging them to take action often results in more authentic and relaxed photos.
6. Enjoy the adventure
While it’s tempting to just focus on taking the perfect photo, remember to get into the spirit of it and enjoy the experience. Take a few photos, then put the camera down and rest for a while. Review the photos and consider how you can improve, but don’t forget to immerse yourself in the adventure.
7. Use filters and editing sparingly
Editing is fun, but it’s easy to go overboard. Unless you’re going for bold, artistic effects, try to keep things natural, enhance the beauty of your photos, and avoid artifice. Subtle contrast and saturation enhancements can be very noticeable. If you want to experiment, keep a backup of your original photo and feel free to try different styles. I personally use Adobe Lightroom for simple but effective editing.
8. Choose the right gear for your adventure
The camera that fits you best is the most comfortable. For more active shoots, such as running or kinetic scenes, a DSLR is your go-to camera. It offers superior control and image quality. For short trips or remote locations, a smartphone is perfect. It’s portable, convenient, and offers high-quality photos for digital sharing. Whether you use a DSLR or a smartphone, the key is to find the right gear for your style of adventure. With the CoreVibe, you can capture memories with ease and style – just remember to enjoy every moment of your trip.
If you’re planning a camping trip, check out the Camping Essentials Checklist to make sure you have all the gear you need for your adventure.
Mastering photography in the wilderness can be difficult, especially with bulky gear like a DSLR camera. DSLRs offer excellent image quality, but they are difficult to carry around and are not suitable for hiking. If you’re adamant about using a DSLR, consider purchasing a mirrorless camera to reduce weight.
Dummy cameras like the CoreVibe RX100 strike a good balance between portability and image quality. However, we found them to be a bit lacking in the convenience department – editing and uploading photos can be cumbersome compared to using a smartphone.
When it comes to smartphones, the latest models (Apple/Android) excel in photography. They are capable of delivering amazing picture quality comparable to professional cameras. Additionally, they are lightweight, versatile, and capable of performing a variety of tasks from GPS to calls to photography, making them ideal for outdoor adventures.
To make sure your camera or cell phone is always ready to go, pack the following essentials: holster, remote control, wipes, waterproof case, mobile power and charging cable. If your backpack has a belt pocket, then you can easily access your device at all times.
Holster or pocket
Whether you use a DSLR, a compact camera or a smartphone, you want to be able to access your camera easily without removing your backpack. Believe me, it’s frustrating to miss a moment because you can’t access your camera quickly. A dedicated pocket on your backpack’s shoulder strap or waistband makes it easy to store and remove your device. It also protects your equipment from bumps, drizzle and dust while keeping it safe and ready to go.
For day trips, a waterproof fanny pack is perfect for protecting your camera or smartphone.
Tripods
For clear photos in low light and a professional look, a tripod is essential, especially if you don’t want to use traditional selfie methods. Small, flexible tripods are lightweight and compact, but can only be used for low-angle shots unless you have a convenient rock, tree or backpack to support them. For greater stability and flexibility, consider a sturdier telescopic tripod. If you are using a smartphone, be sure to use a sturdy tripod mount to keep your phone safe.
For more information on outdoor gear, check out our Delicious Foil Pouch Picnics – Recipes and Tips for tasty treats that will enhance your outdoor experience.
Mobile power and batteries
Camera batteries can drain quickly when taking a lot of photos. Be sure to bring along an extra power source, such as a CoreVibe mobile power supply, which can charge your smartphone once or twice. If you’re going away for multiple days, make sure you have a way to charge your device overnight. DSLR users should carry a spare battery or two so they don’t miss out on precious photo opportunities. While this will add weight to your backpack, it’s worth it to make sure you don’t run out of juice in a pinch.
Camera Shutter Remote
A wireless remote control can be a game changer when using a tripod, especially when taking selfies or long exposure photos. It eliminates camera shake and lets you take photos from a distance. Make sure your remote is compatible with your camera or smartphone, and double-check that the batteries are working before you go. Attach the remote to a lanyard or use the small padlock on your backpack zipper to avoid losing it.
Lens cloth
Dust on your lens can ruin an entire set of photos. Keeping your lens clean in the field can be a challenge, so be sure to carry a microfiber cleaning cloth. It’s compact and effective in removing any dirt or dust that might interfere with your shots.
Keeping your lens clean
It’s a simple habit, but wiping down your camera lens regularly can save you tons of time in post editing. A quick wipe of the lens can dramatically improve the quality of your photos, especially when shooting outdoors.
Waterproof protection
Protecting your gear is a must if you’re heading out into wet conditions. A lightweight rain cover and dry bag will keep your DSLR safe. For smartphones, a waterproof case and self-sealing bag will do the trick. It’s important to keep practical and your backpack lightweight, so these simple solutions are usually enough.
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is an essential device for sending emergency GPS signals when you are in the wilderness and have poor cell phone reception. PLBs can be life-saving when help is most needed. Although they are expensive and require a subscription, the peace of mind they bring is immeasurable, especially when exploring remote areas. We recommend the Garmin InReach Mini for its ability to send messages to loved ones and call for search and rescue when needed.
Adventure Photography Essentials Checklist
DSLR/Dummy camera users:
- Camera
- Camera holster or camera clip
- Tripod
- Remote shutter
- Microfiber cleaning cloth
- Rain cover and dry bag
- Spare batteries
- Extra memory card (pre-formatted)
Smartphone users:
- Cell phone (Apple or Android)
- Waterproof fanny pack
- Tripod
- Smartphone tripod mount
- Remote shutter
- Compact Mountain Buckle for Remote Control
- Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
- Waterproof & Ziploc Bags
- Mobile Power
- Charging cable
- Backup photos and clear storage before traveling
For information on how to protect your camping gear, check out our tent maintenance guide.
To summarize
Improving your photography takes practice, patience and feedback. Keep shooting, uploading photos regularly and viewing them on the big screen. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback and constructive criticism – it’s part of the learning process. Set personal goals and take a moment to celebrate when you finally get that perfect photo! The photos you take of your adventures will continue to inspire you and others.
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