Ways to Improve MY Landscape Photography (and yours too!) | Tips to Take Better Landscape Photos

[@ashstubbings2603]

Hallelujah!! Someone who agrees with me! "There is no such thing as bad light! Only the wrong subject!" I've listened to and watched so many photographers (not naming names) bang on about 'bad light', and I've sat there thinking " You're out there aren't you?? Make the most of it!! You are in one of the most beautiful places in the country, if not the world, and you're moaning you can't get the shot because of 'bad light!' GET A GRIP!" Aaahhhh!! I feel much better for getting that off my chest! Thank you Chris!

[@ashstubbings2603]

@@oneeyedphotographer Well, I didn't like to say, but actually I wholeheartedly agree with that too! I'm very fortunate that I don't have to make a living from photography it's 'just' a passion. so I pretty much point the camera at whatever takes my fancy! LOL It's a fantastic way to develop that 'careful eye' you speak of.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Obviously light is hugely important in photography. Certain scenes will work in different conditions. Wide open vistas rarely work in flat light but that can be essential when working a simple, minimalistic composition. What we need to do when faced with the wrong sort of light is to find a composition that works with the conditions that we are presented with. Something I still haven't gotten the hang of.

[@garystone6583]

As ever Chris your video and images are first rate, You have a lot of people out there rooting for you to succeed

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Gary - the support that I get from the photography community is paramount if I am to achieve my goal of making a living from landscape photography.

[@juliangreaves4727]

Chris. I, along with the rest of the amateur landscape photography community I'm sure, am so enjoying following your journey. You are sharing your thinking and approach in just the right amount of depth to keep us all captivated and to fuel our own dreams. I'm sure you'll be the catalyst for many a budding professional. What did strike me through this video is how well you could mentor other would-be professional landscape photographers in the future.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Once I am up and running I would love to do whatever I can to help other people who want to turn professional. Too few people are willing to help others to become established. I can honestly say I don't have a single fellow professional that I could call on for help and advice. I'd love to be able to give back to the community that has given me so much support.

[@Howdedoda]

Great video Chris. I am in the very same boat as you here in Ireland. I am just about to quit my job, so I am listening to everything you say. Onwards & upwards and fingers crossed, cheers Howard

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Go for it Howard. I wish you luck - what sort of photography do you do?

[@Howdedoda]

@@ChrisSalePhoto I do landscape photography also. Just about to share a photography shop with a pet portrait photographer. Risky I know, but really have to go for it.

[@Howdedoda]

@@ChrisSalePhoto facebook.com/Howard-Swaine-Photography-535567966586222/

[@xFabel]

11:21 "Shooting with purpose...." Well said! This is such a solid piece of advice for everyone looking to be found and to get better.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Cheers Phil - I guess I just need to decide what my next 'project' is going to be and go for it.

[@AlexMcDougallPhotography]

An excellent video Chris, a real thought provoked. Superb image quality as well throughout even the one shot as a tester on your scouting trip.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Alex - I certainly liked the image that I got on the shores of Ullswater. Quite pleased with that one.

[@owlsbeale5888]

Hi Chis. Another interesting video and an honest opinion on the direction you have to go in. The pictures you take to sell and those for you art will be different in most cases. Those you take for yourself may one day be classics. I often return many times to the same location and learn with each visit and therefore I get different photos and hopefully improve with each visit as your knowledge of the area improves. I run a photographic group with the U3A (University of the third age) (sound posh but really pensioners outing lol) so returning to places is inevitable. Good to see that you have scouting missions. Often when out with friends I will use the phone to take snapshots then return with a real camera. Useful tool. Keep up the good work and good luck. 😎

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hi Alan - I find that I often have to return to a locations 3 or even 4 times in order to fine tune a composition and correct the mistakes that I have made. Remember I am looking for opportunities to talk to groups so if the U3A are interested in hearing about my approach or my journey as a photographer let me know.

[@LCSlade]

What you're now approaching is a goal is, still, an aspiration for me, at a later stage of life. It seems your goal is becoming a well laid out plan (I saw your previous vlog), and I wish you all the best. This time I've subscribed so I can follow your journey. Very nice images!!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks very much - I do have a plan but I have already learned so much in my first month as a full-time photographer that it needs updating. Got to remain flexible I suppose.

[@actionimagesphotography]

Last week I mentioned the rock wall leading down to the lake was your shot. Nice to see that you listened ( and got back to me ) and went back to the location. One thing that helped me was one photographer told me to "work the scene ". Vertical , horizontal, wide, tele, high low. Not only does it help with your creativity but in the long run it helps with sales.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Of course mate! Unfortunately I didn't get the light that I needed. I will try again. Good advice about 'working' the scene. I can sometimes become blinkered into thinking that there is only one composition for a location when in reality nothing could be further from the truth.

[@DGriffGallery]

A very interesting and engaging introspective there, Chris. And I, for one, will take good deal of it on board, despite not having the same professional imperative as yourself. It's clear there are some extremely valuable lessons which can be learned by the hobbyist from your current personal journey. The next time I'm asked for tips to improve, I may well find myself simply sending out the link to this video rather than becoming embroiled in technical discussions! I'd be wiling to bet that the sort of philosophical approach you are taking may well offer more immediate and long-lasting results to someone seeking to improve their landscape photography, than talk of techniques and gear and, dare I say it, even visiting "honeypot" locations such as ours! I'd wager that approach and attitude, conscientiously applied, have the potential to trump skill-set and equipment to a some degree. 😊👍

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thank you David, very kind of you to say. I think that building an extensive local knowledge is very important to both of us if we want to be to help others to get the shot. I have long held the belief that 90% of landscape photography is being in the right place at the right time. People should not underestimate the effort we have both put in to get us to these 'honeypot' locations in the first place.

[@wayneschumacher8451]

Chris, I really appreciate your comments on this new journey. As a recently retired senior, I don't need to worry about future income, but I am working to improve my photography and post-processing skills before my health fails or time runs out. ;-) BTW, that practice shot was a beautiful keeper. Thanks, again.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Go for it Wayne! Whether or not you need to make an income from your photography having a carefully considered approach will help you to improve in my experience. Good luck with everything and if there is anything that I can help with please just ask.

[@robertnelson3179]

Thanks for the video. I too seem to be drawn to overcast with the effect of mankind in a “natural “ setting thanks for giving me the confidence to believe in that.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

It's a pleasure Robert. Some of my favourite photographers seem to favour overcast conditions. And when you get a break in the clouds and the light streaming through... magic!

[@hope121107]

Your doing great work. Love seeing the videos.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thank you very much, very kind of you to say.

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

I would add a fourth aspect of personal style: editing. For example, Nigel Danson favors a somewhat muted palette, similar to yours. Thomas Heaton brings out more color and contrast in his images, and frequently focus stacks when he shoots scenes with lots of depth and foreground elements close to the camera. Nick Page is a Photoshop master and his edits lean towards the epic, but without looking fake. It might be interesting to demonstrate your own editing, or maybe display and compare "RAW" vs "finished" images like Adam Gibbs. I'm enjoying your journey so far!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks John, you are probably right about editing. It can certainly be used to give your images as certain 'look'. I will give some thought to showing some of my images before and after post processing. Might be an interesting topic for a video.

[@G0FUW]

Chris, a few points arising out of your vlog. First of all you hit the nail on the head about shooting for you and shooting for the money, they may well be two different genres - witness the number of landscape photographers who 'do weddings' to pay the mortgage and fund landscape photo trips. Also take a look at the sickly 'chocolate box' canvas prints that sell in some Keswick shops - the tourists are not into subtle fine art prints but will pay for in your face blue sky images. Second point is REALLY important. You say you are planning to take your best 15 images to the RPS but you may find that they do not 'hang' together. When I did my LRPS I could not use what I considered to be my very best image because it did not sit well with the others. The advice to treat the panel as an image in itself is extremely important, also have a number of images in reserve - the advisory days are great for testing the water and having a few spares allows the advisers to help you get the best out of your portfolio; they are very helpful, in my experience, if you go with an open mind. Finally, write you statement early on and shoot to meet that brief. A have seen a number who gather a panel together and then write words to make it look like a meaningful project, and they just didn't work. Good luck and keep that sense of purpose.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Steve - as far as blue sky images are concerned this is exactly what I had in mind when I talking about photos that sell! And thanks for the advice on the RPS distinctions, I will get myself along to an advisory day before I do anything else.

[@RobOutenPhotography]

Very interesting points and views covered in this Vlog Chris. Thanks for sharing.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Cheers Rob - anything stand out to you that you think you might like to try yourself?

[@RobOutenPhotography]

@@ChrisSalePhoto the point you made about picking the location/subject to work with the conditions it the most applicable to me I think. As you know, I live in the East of the country so my best time for Landscapes is sunrise. But when the weather isn't working I can shoot Woodlands for those more detailed images. "Pick the location to meet the conditions". 👍📸

[@rosssayer6524]

Looking forward to following along on your journey to becoming a professional landscape photographer, really enjoying your tips and thoughts on this so far. Good luck in achieving your goal.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Ross. I think I am going to need all the luck I can get if I am going to be successful.

[@JohnHPettigrewFujishooter67]

Another interesting video Chris, I believe on our photographic journeys we are always learning and improving, keep up the good work.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I think you are right there John. Wouldn't it be sad if there was nothing left learn.

[@JamesRBurnsVLOG]

A good shout to go and shoot for purpose. Great advice from one of the best. As a landscape photographer, it’s very important to define their work from a happy snapping tourist to something that is also well thought out and composed. Nice work matey 👍👍

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Cheers mate - I think my photography benefits from revisiting a location time and time again, fine tuning my compositions over an extended period of time. Hopefully the knowledge that I am building will hold me in good stead for workshops and 1-2-1s.

[@TheNonsenseAdventures]

Good luck with the exhibition, I agree, you need to get out and shoot in all weathers, all light, especially if you can easily re-visit the locations. Its good to give yourself challanges, but also remember, ITS MEANT TO BE FUN! As you've said, you have this year to see if you can make it, If you make it but find you hate it, Did you really make it? If you find you are making very little money, but you are enjoying every day of life, Then i'd say you have made it.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Cheers Adam - I am certainly enjoying things so far but it does feel less like fun now that there is so much riding on it. It's more fun than being stuck in an office though.

[@Bazzo61]

Really impressed with your focus and determination to succeed. You clearly know what you want to achieve. Really enjoyed this video and some great advice, especially about not being restricted by the weather.

[@derekwinsor8072]

Chris, I think that you have the right approach, a bit like financial investing for the future. You need diversification as you never know what form will win out. What does stand out is your blogging style. I find it very compelling and interesting. Keep it up!

[@AlanMETALMAN]

'No such thing as bad light'.....interesting. I was at Bonscale Pike about 6 weeks ago and I got a good shot of the iconic view there and a sunset shot would be a great image, although, I loved the shot you took on the day. I agree with you, that a minimalist approached to composition, with all distracting factors eliminated to just leave the subject matter, is possibly not what Joe Public would be drawn too, especially with so much drama in the landscape, as well as the sky, so interesting that you were going to change your approach to make yourself more commercially viable. I can see why your image of Loughrigg Brow is so successful and I am more drawn to an image like that, then the one you took on the lake but then again, as James Burns says below, I am a typical happy snapping tourist lol. One thing I have learnt in my videos, is all the Americans are facinated by dry stone walls, they always comment on it, so for the tourist with cash on hip a dry stone wall is a must. Cheers Alan

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

The drystone walls are so iconic aren't they Alan. I need to work hard on looking for a shot that uses one as a lead in line. There's a good one that runs down from the summit of Side Pike so you have the Langdale Pikes in the distance. I also think a good image of a Herdwick would sell well.

[@ScottPDX]

I like your new plan and look forward to seeing how you execute on it.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks very much Scott.

[@Snowcatnz2]

Great video Chris. I love the analogy "No such thing as Bad Light, just wrong subject" That really just opened my mind to my own photography

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Tim - one thing that I need to learn is to be more adaptable when I don't get the light that I am after. I tend to carry on regardless and then am disappointed with the results. I wonder if carrying a macro lens might encourage me to try 'other' things when the light in my favour.

[@BosePhotography]

This was a really interesting video Chris, fantastic detail and insight into the process you’re going through and I’ll certainly be taking a lot of your points on board for my own photography. I find that conflict between generating your own style and taking commercially suited images particularly challenging. There’s a fine line there and it’s interesting to look through my own favourite photographers portfolios and see how they’ve achieved this. Do let us know if you’re putting on an exhibition at some point, we’d love to try and come if possible, and also let us know if you’re headed to the RPS. I looked into that myself this week!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Will do Sam. I think the exhibition is a long way off but I need to start researching the best way to approach distinctions with the RPS. You thinking of going for one?

[@BosePhotography]

I think so, Hannah and I are in the process of putting together a 'two-year' plan (we even have a spreadsheet!) and a RPS distinction, as well as an exhibition, are on the list!

[@antonoat]

Bracketing exposures can be worthwhile insurance when the light is tricky, at least then you'll have the ingredients for exposure blending! Good luck Chris, enjoying following you on your journey, cheers. PS stunning conditions at the lake there!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I often bracket my exposures, particularly if I can't use ND grads for whatever reason. Lightroom is pretty good at HDR - far better than Photomatix which I used to have to use.

[@SimonBurnCreative]

Some very good thinking here Chris. Having a reason to shoot and an endgame in mind certainly makes things easier, and allows us to concentrate on HOW we shoot something, rather than WHY or WHAT. Far less stressful 😃

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I had never looked at it that way mate but I think you are spot on. I think I am going to steel that!

[@hartsphotography]

Fascinating video lots of food for thought there.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Anthony, glad you found it interesting.

[@coopscorner123]

Hi Chris! Me again. I highly respect and admire your true purpose in being a photographer. Much like mine, actually. I am basically a beginner in digital photography. Having purchased my first digital camera (Kodak Easyshare Z5010) back in 2010. Not to say I have years and years of experience using film SLR cameras, but when I had a camera in my hand, I wanted the best composition I could make or find of what caught my attention as a subject. Naturally, Nature and photographing its beauty is my passion now, since much of it is gone since I was young. My goal as a photographer is to document and photograph what we as humans are causing to the environment, and how we have reshaped it. I wish you the best on your images submit to the RAW photographic society. Look forward to more of your videos.

[@jackarigho617]

Great video as usual. Love the concept of shooting with a purpose. Thanks for sharing!!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Jack, shooting with purpose has definitely helped me to improve my photography. All I need to do now is decide what is my next project.

[@jlsc4125]

First thing to know, the golden hour is bunk. Anyone can make a good photo when everything is perfect for it. A good photographer can take a good picture any time of the day by using the proper composition.

[@huwalban]

Selling prints is hard Chris. That is an unfortunate but very truthful fact. I was in an art gallery for 8 years, and in that time I was never able to work out what images would sell and sometimes it was the less conventional images that surprised me. I wish you the best of luck with you exhibition. I've done several and used them as an opportunity to get my name out there (with mixed results I might add) and to advertise my workshops. I heard a saying once that "vibrant colours attract attention, but pastel colours sell" - not sure if it is true, but it is a principal that I'm going to apply to Dorset Arts Weeks next year to check it out. I'm running a Photographic workshop in the Lake District w/c 14th October and will look out for you if you are about. All the best Chris. The story of your journey is really interesting. Keep it up :)

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Fascinating Huw - I doubt selling prints will contribute much to my income in the early years but in the long term, as the quality of my work improves and my personal style becomes more recognisable it is something that I want to grow. Where in the Lakes will you be? I should be back from my week of shooting in Cornwall (where I am at the moment).

[@huwalban]

Hello Chris. I'm basing myself in Keswick, so will be knocking about in Manesty, Grange, maybe Baneriggs near Grasmere and Grasmere itself, maybe Blea Tarn - sort of depends on the weather really. I'm having two days up there on my own which I'm intending to use to explore Loughrigg Tarn, Rydal caves, Skelwith to Elterwater, and the top end of Thirlmere. Enjoy Cornwall. I hope that the weather has been kind to you. Been a bit mixed here in Dorset over the last few days.

[@tony_r_pierce]

I think developing a style is paramount for a professional. I've noticed lately that when I scroll through my Instagram feed I can many times identify the person posting a photo just from the first glance at the photo. I think it's the editing, and sometimes the subject matter, that gives me that clue. A recognizable style helps create the brand.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

"A recognisable style helps create the brand". You are so right there Tony! I am a little cautious of relying too heavily on post processing to develop my style. I worry that some of the more fashionable approaches to editing can seriously date your images a few years down the line.

[@SuperStones64]

Really good to see you are heading the pro way Chris, a bold choice, just one, well three things caught my ear in your recent videos, the thing i was scorned at by my english teacher, when writing what comes from a habit of vocal communication " I, Me and My" it is a bad habit that can be improved, otherwise, great vlogs

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Andy - can I ask how could I avoid using I, me or my? I would like to do whatever I can to improve my grammar.

[@earavichandran]

This video is an excellent guidance for landscape photography. I appreciate the method of your style. Visiting to one place and surveying about the composition, this help our images to be more interesting. Great video.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks very much Ravi. My approach to landscape photography has always been to identify a location and figure out the composition before trying to shoot it for real.

[@neklamp2431]

Ha ha every subject you mentioned, I was struggling with it in the last 4 days! You already have your style, I see the video's thumbnail and I know it's you! You will be great as a teacher too. You are always on point!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Cheers Nek. For me the most important thing is to practice. If you can commit to shooting at least once a week the other things will eventually slot into place. Part of the reason for going fulltime was to give myself more time to practice and accelerate that process.

[@BobbyBabaletskos]

I believe that the first and most important factor to improve one's photography is to go out and shoot as often as possible. I don't necessarily think your photography has improved, but I have seen some amazing Chris Sale shots lately! The reason is not the skill, is the conditions you found yourself to be, when that was not possible before. You got the photography skills and knowledge of the lake district like few have. You got this, Chris! Cheers

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Cheers Bobby. You are absolutely right mate. My photography hasn't improved, I have just had more opportunity to be out there when conditions are favourable.

[@carlreid4161]

Get down to that yacht club Chris I’m sure the yachties would buy a great photograph especially as you say with fog creating that all important isolation and separation, you could grab as many as you can with those conditions if there’s a market for it?

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I have no idea Carl. I wonder if the members of the yacht club would welcome a scruffy Herbert like me trying flog his photos?

[@MioMyDog]

Omg, yes for overcast days! Love them for photography, best time ever. And yeah, the balance between what others want to see and your personal preferences is always the biggest struggle for artists, I think. I hope you can find your own balance and it works for you.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks very much - I think I will be able to find a balance in the long term but for now I have to be prepared to shoot more commercial stuff from time to time.

[@ToBCreations]

It's an interesting journey you are on. I enjoy following you and get your perspective on the challenges ahead. I guess many can relate to what you mention about getting your own style and seeing possibilities rather than difficulty and obstacles. But you are reflected, so I think it will go well. I wish you all the best. 🙂👍

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thank you very much, that is very kind of you. I try to be as positive and as optimistic as I can. I am certainly enjoying the journey at the moment.

[@henkoosterink8744]

You got to have a plan man, a cunning plan!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

To quote Blackadder... I have a plan and it's "as cunning as a fox who's just been appointed professor of cunning at Oxford University".

[@alickmcwhirter5045]

A fascinating video, I am following your journey with great interest! My two penny's worth, you mention in many of your videos about your need to improve your standard and sometimes I think you fail to give yourself credit for the standard you are currently at. In any field, if you are any good, you will always seek to improve. The desire to improve does not mean you are not currently good, to some extent I think it echoes your comments about seeking a style. At some point I think improving becomes maturing, which encompasses both your desire to improve technically whilst developing a personal style. Anyway, great stuff!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Alick, that is very kind of you. Obviously most of us are our own worse critics. I am very proud of some of the images that I produce but I still make a lot of mistakes and know that I can do better.

[@andychattaway5620]

I really enjoyed the video chris. Your narration is professional and easy to listen to. Some very nice images too, but I wish you would let us enjoy them for an extra few seconds. Let's not snub the incomparable 'Mother Nature.' Because obviously mankind has had a big impact on the aesthetics of the Lake District and as a resident you know this better than the rest of us. But knowing that the landforms that make up the Lake District were created by glacial erosion is what makes the Lakes so special to me. Good Luck Chris, keep going and don't end up as a 'Wedding Photographer.' 😱

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Andy. In this week's video (due out this evening) you will be pleased to hear that I have increased the amount of time that each image is on the screen from 10 to 14 seconds. Don't say I am not prepared to accept feedback! :)

[@DiviPhotos]

Cool video

[@tonyturner7676]

A truly enjoyable and enlightening video, Chris. I was interested in your comment about the images that you enjoy taking may not be the commercially successful ones and so you may have to rethink what you capture. Will you still be able to find the same passion for the ‘commercial’ images and if not will your final work be compromised? One last question please, what percentage of your income do you think you will generate from selling prints as opposed to any other projects you have in the pipeline? I only ask this as one well known you tuber that we all know is stopping selling prints and concentrating on other projects that he has ongoing. Love your channel and always enjoy your work.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hi Tony, let me try and answer those questions. There is a huge trend at the moment in landscape photography to shoot dark moody images. Most people that buy images when on holiday in places in the Lake District want much more cheerful images. Blue skies might not be all that interesting to shoot but they do sell. I think in order to be successful as a landscape photographer I am going to have to embrace shooting more commercial images. I think the key is to keep going out in all conditions. Realistically prints are not going to account for much more than about 10% of my income in the early days, but the dream is to grow that side of the business as my work improves.

[@westenbergerstephan5955]

I think the picture in your video 6:03 is already quite nice. However, I agree, if there was light from the (left)side (sunset or sunrise, not sure) would make that image (hope there are clouds too) very interesting. Now here comes what makes landscape photografie so unpredictable, sometimes exhausting and frustrating but on the other hand so fascinating..... you'll never really know if all those "if's" will ever merge into one picture. But if it does.. badaboom... a picture for lifetime. :-) X my fingers it'll work out for you!

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I think that is what makes landscape photography so addictive and keeps us coming back for more. But as the same time I can be quite guilty of being to regimented in my approach. When I don't get the conditions I want I sometimes struggle to break from the plan.

[@Bussmicke2305]

U was talking about the app for the sunset and sunrise. Which one is that?

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I use the Photographer's Ephemeris. There is a free web version. Check out their website. www.photoephemeris.com/ Hope that helps.

[@alanstanway6118]

Chris this vlog proves that images most of us would be proud of, those same images for your own professional career won't cut it on a commercial basis. Your 'scouting' shots demonstrate my point, they are more than GOOD but maybe not saleable when compared to the competition? Having said that I firmly believe you have both the talent and drive to make it. From a very personal viewpoint I would also urge you to consider gaining a distinction from the BIPP which I did myself. This is a society for professionals as opposed to (I may get hated for saying this!) mainly amateur photographers. You are aiming for professional standards and being amongst other recognized pros in such an institution would, in my mind be more beneficial.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks for the advice regarding BIPP Alan - I shall look into it.

[@tompetersphotography]

Lovely job mate, brilliant idea and goal to work towards I would say. Some lovely shots you had I would of been tempted to go long exposure and really minimal on that boat👍🏻 but I am an addict lol 😂 keep cracking mate

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Cheers mate - I did try picking out a single boat but there just wasn't enough seperation for a minimalist shot. What I needed was some mist!

[@tompetersphotography]

Chris Sale ooh the mist we all strive for lol 😂

[@derekmack]

There’s a balancing act to achieve, making money v personal enjoyment from your photography. I shoot weddings, I love shooting portraits and I’m a documentary photographer for a wedding day. Almost every client couple start out saying they want only a little or no posed photos. I tend to talk them round to getting family, friends and a bridal set of photos. Via my webs analytics I know that it’s those posed photos that are making the most money in after sales and that’s what pays most...

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Thanks Derek - I feel that I should probably so something similar with my portfolio to see what kind of image people seem to favour.

[@mikemolloyphotography]

Don't forget stone circles like druids circle by Morecombe Bay on your list of man made changes Chris. Man has been in the landscape for millenia. :)

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Excellent idea Mike! Cumbria is literally littered with them. They are so common that when they built the railway line that runs through Shap they just ploughed straight through the middle of one of the best in the area!

[@davidfitzpatrick7399]

Right don't want to be known as a fair weather photographer.. I did a year where I took at least 1 picture a day... Wonder if I could get a sunset for a year...?

[@chrisseveris5126]

Chris, is that a Lee polariser your using? Looking to purchase one but my goodness ££££

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hi Chris, yeah, I use a Lee landscape polariser. It is expensive but I use it for at least 90% (probably more) of my shots. It is absolutely essential for controlling contrast in my images. A big but worthy investment.

[@chrisseveris5126]

@@ChrisSalePhoto my next purchase

[@expatriatechronicles6915]

The amount of planning done is quite amazing. However, I reckon you can also get loads of great photos of things that just kind of "pop up". Michael Kenna was talking about this in one of his interviews. He says he doesn't plan much, but prefer to be surprised by some beautiful thing. By not planning so much, he feels that he is more open to new compositions.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I am a huge fan of Michael Kenna. He has been the biggest influence on my photography and my approach to composition. But he is a genius and what works for him won't necessarily work for the rest of us. I often have to visit a location multiple times to get my composition right.

[@valpayne2963]

Beauty is always in the eye of the beholder, but I’ve held the belief for several years now that no matter how technically competent someone is, no matter how much they ‘shoot with purpose’, if they don’t have ‘The Eye’, that creative X factor, then any image will only ever be good, never great. This is the hardest thing to learn. How to create emotional reactions in viewers. It’s a bit like singers, there are those that think they can sing but can’t, those that sound just OK, but those that make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up when they sing. Push those boundaries of vision and creativity Chris, get a range of professional critiques on your output, a mentor professional, a gallery owner..... Immerse yourself in the work of successful photographers, people who have nailed it. All of this will help you be successful. I wish you the best of luck in your brave venture.

[@antonoat]

I'd go as far to say if an image doesn't make us feel something then it fails from the start!

[@valpayne2963]

I agree, but we can’t assume because an image makes US feel something that it will make the viewer feel something. We may think our image is great but that is onlyto our standards. To the eyes of others it may not be. We can be trapped in tunnel vision, and no amount of perfecting technique will work. We may not even realise and be perfectly happy until we find no one really wants to buy our prints. The challenge is to open our eyes and minds and fly out of that tunnel!

[@antonoat]

@@valpayne2963 Perhaps I should have been more clear, I meant the viewer when I said us !

[@desgardner7169]

My advise to you is if you are going for a distinction from the RPS is go to a RPS workshop for advise on how to get a distinction, remember a LRPS is the first step on the ladder and not the beginner section as some people seem to think! the ARPS is not the intermediate section so on, the best thing about a workshop is you can take your prints or digital files with you and you can also see other photographers successful panels you could also have chat or a one to one with a more experienced photographer on the RPS stand at the photography show. they are always willing to help.....its surprising how many people get it so wrong when applying for a distinction! Having your own exhibition is a great idea, village halls are a good venue but the best is a empty shop somewhere in the busy part of town, but you may need stands and boards to hang your prints on this is where your nearest local Photographic Society might be able to help...... Best of luck with your decision....

[@stevew8655]

Chris - this is really good advice. I did the LRPS this year and submitted my panel straight to assessment after taking advice from a former Chairman - although I passed I learned so much from the other assessments on the day that I wish I had put into my panel. The biggest learning point was that just submitting 10 great images wasn't enough, they have to work as a panel as well. Taking my own learning point forward, I'm starting working on an Associate panel by attending an Associate Assessment Day as an observer in a couple of weeks - best of luck.

[@desgardner7169]

@@stevew8655 well done Stephen, I would like to say a lot more on this subject but it was a long time ago when I got my distinction I feel I am not qualified to do so now as things do change in time! but I got my LRPS first time, and I used a couple of these prints in my ARPS application, which I also got first time, then I changed the whole of my photography idea's and picture taking and for the next 3 years put together a new set of pictures in the then applied section, I got my FRPS first time, it was my greatest achievement in photography and still is....Des Gardner FRPS....best wishes...

[@thevalleywalker]

Not sure if it has but I reckon between the last episode and this one your mindset has changed as far going forward with a plan. This is almost like following a documentary series and going forward it will be interesting to see how you fare in your quest to be a better photographer (which I have no doubt you will) but will also suceed in your ambition to become a successful landscape photographer, I think you will do this also. Arrgh, I really don't get the IG thing - I am sure there are many more sites that would be better for this.. after all, scrolling through your phone looking at images does not really give a good idea of potential locations? I am a big fan of books n magazines and not just photography mags, I sub to Trail again now after a good 15 years of taking subscriptionsw of various photography mags. Going on about developing your style though I would forget looking at sm sites and go out and take images that will help create the style... in locations that are unfamiliar to you in many cases - this will get you thinking, explorediscovershoot (borrowed from the newly formed Simon Burns channel) it really is good advice to us all methinks.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Instagram is great of getting a feel for a location. Not so much about finding the exact composition but confirming that there is enough potential to warrant a visit.

[@shenacooks]

i just want to know, are the photos that you show straight from the camera, or do you do a lot of post processing?

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Hi Sheena, I shoot in RAW so all of my images are subjected to post processing to some extent. Some images need more work than others.

[@1xmedia766]

Sadly I think you've jumped before learning how to open a parachute .....in saying that I really do wish you success 👍

[@nikolatesla9384]

I think Chris is being humble here. He's already a photographer in his own right. I think a lot of people think the 'professional' refers to mastert when in reality is more related to making a living. There is a lot of folks, myself included, who do just what we call hobbyst photography but when seen alongside a 'pro' you cant tell the difference really. I believe Chris portrays himself as an amateur but there is no way he is being growing a following like his just by chance. Anyway just wait and see

[@1xmedia766]

@@nikolatesla9384 I'm not categorizing Chris as amateur/professional photographer I just think from a personal level he still has a lot to learn ....but again as I said earlier good on him for having the guts to try.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

@Nikola Tesla - thank you so much for your kind words, I greatly appreciate it. I do still have a lot of work to do raise the standard of my photography. Working in IT as I was before I just wasn't getting enough time to practice. Now I have more time to dedicate to my photography and can make some money through workshops and 1-2-1s which perhaps rely more on my knowledge of the Lake District than my proficiency with the camera. What many people like our friend here fail to understand is that this whole process is all about giving my photography the focus that it needs in order to attain a higher standard.

[@1xmedia766]

@@ChrisSalePhoto Before you can teach you have to learn first .....you said it yourself more or less 0:21 ?

[@shortstop47]

i'd skip the instagram step of your pre shoot research to avoid aping whats already been shot and going to a location with too much of a preconception of the final image. this could help with finding your own voice more and creating images more personal to you, more representative of your personal style.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Understood Paul but perhaps it's not so much about influencing my composition but proving that there is enough potential to warrant visiting a location in the first place.

[@scotttalbot4041]

Track down the owner of the boat, to see if they'd like to buy a framed print! 😜

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

I'll try wandering around Ambleside stopping people in the street. "Excuse me sir, do you recognise this boat?" :)

[@scotttalbot4041]

@@ChrisSalePhoto Hahaha! I'm assuming you can see the name of the boat, and it would be registered somewhere? :-P

[@ricardohnn]

I totally agree that you should make commercially viable products... Photos... Art... Whatever... But doesn't it seem contradictory? We choose to buy an art because we feel a meaning to it, although the real meaning is for the artist itself. Of course that we would choose a style we want to buy... But i feel like this kind of... Disconnection between your feeling and what you are selling seems... Robotic... Like what difference would be to have a bad photo but digitally enhance it... People already has a lot of content available, so to choose to buy it from you, it needs a personal feeling... I feel that the path you are taking feels... Like making wedding shots... I really don't know... I am very interested about you and your channel, and the way you choose to develop your photography... But i just feel... Like there is no love... Again, this is my personal opinion watching this vid... Anyway...

[@teleking58]

Working toward a distinction in the RPS or any other group or society is a complete waste of time and effort. You want to make a living at this. Ask yourself which of your potential clients would base their buying decision on an association with any such group or society. The images need to be compelling on their own. Sell prints to, or through, the businesses in the area you are in. Sell images to the tourism board of these areas. Promote group or private instruction as this is the most financially profitable avenue of 99% of youtube photo experts. Focus on making commercial images . That means what people want and not I have a cool style. Style only comes with time a depth of experience. Plenty of time for that to come but focus on making the dosh for now or you'll be back looking for a job.

[@andrewhookerphotography4774]

Once again a great video Chris. Very timely, and very thought provoking. Thank you. Great shots by the way.

[@ChrisSalePhoto]

Cheers Andrew, glad you enjoyed it.