How to Embrace MINIMALISM for IMPROVED Landscape Photos

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

What are your photography plans this fall & winter?

[@forgedfromfreedom]

Mark Denney I’m going to Canada to catch fall colors which I haven’t done before. I will focus on intimate and simplistic landscape photos like close ups of frozen fallen leaves.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Forged From Freedom That sounds amazing! I’m a bit jealous of that - I must say!

[@forgedfromfreedom]

Mark Denney Thanks. Love your videos, man. Always learning something new and useful from them. 👍

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Forged From Freedom Really appreciate that - thank you!

[@leonardsmith82]

I plan to visit Zion national park this fall. I have been to Maui and Yosemite so far this month and it's been quite amazing!! I see you visit the same locations 😁👍

[@mauistevebear]

I believe what makes you great is the fact that you show your work as examples of critique. NO one else does that! We actually can connect with you on that level! Good Job Mark! Keep it up, it's a winning approach!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Always appreciate ya Steve! Great to know that you enjoyed this week's episode!

[@korffyboy91]

​@@MarkDenneyPhoto Good point, most of the other photographers on KZbin seem to think they are already on top of the game. They should try and be a little more humble from time to time

No one else does that? Really? Maybe it's time to choose better what to watch because I personally mostly follow photographers on KZbin who critique at least once in a while their photos...

[@HathamAlShabibi]

One thing I really love about your videos is that you share photos that aren't necessarily your "best" or favorite. You intentionally show (what you perceive to be) ho-hum photos. It's so relatable to us noobs!

[@ricedumplings3767]

11:40 Actually I prefer the colored one. It makes me feel energetic, and green/white(or yellow?) gives a nice contrast.

[@yianisarvanitis9115]

One of the best in here for photography tutorials-discussions.Simply calm and straight to the point.Nothing more, nothing less.Just as it should be.Congrats Mark

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Thanks so much! Glad you're enjoying the channel!

[@richardsoutdoorworld5284]

And Mark does it with no Ego at all , One of best Photo Channels on youtube

[@KeinBierVorVierAlter]

I have never regretted clicking on a Mark Denney video. Good stuff!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Great to hear - thank ya friend!

[@David_Nurse]

I loved this video and went back over some of my landscape shots and realised that I liked the minimalistic shots better than the ”busy” shots. I can see now that too often I try and include too much in the shot and maybe two or more minimal shots rather than try and take it all with one. Food for thought. I think this will change my landscape efforts at least in the short term. BTW what made your point stand out so well was you showed lots of examples. Thanks Mark.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

David Nurse Thanks David! Good to hear the video resonated with you!

[@johndoherty6448]

Good point, David. Furthermore, there was a refreshing level of self-critique.

[@BenelliMr]

congratulations: finally somebody who does not reduce photography to gear. Isn't the ultimate aim to have fun and to create joy, while a small minority of photographers do have to make money while selling fun and joy? One obvious question I always ask about every photo: What is this photo for? Who would have any interest to hang this photo on the walls? If the final result will be to fill a collection on a cloud? Delete !! This is what I did with 90% of my photos. Now my small collection gets much more interest from myself and others. Focus on the essential is key. Less is more said the old monks in Asia. They were so right.

[@themoodyphotographer59]

Another great video Mark!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Dennis Nelson Many thanks Dennis!

[@jaydesimone4297]

Hi Mark, I have to disagree with you about the hikers on Haleakala; the eye is amazing at picking out the human form and mine went right to them. The tiny size leaves no doubt as to the scale. I think it works perfectly having them so small. Zooming in would just reduce the majesty of that landscape.

[@paulwoodford6229]

You dare disagree, lol

[@MrSchocke]

Picture is on its way! I have not considered minimalism to this extent. I will try to make this my next project. Fantastic channel!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Nick Schocke Thanks Nick! Glad you enjoy the channel!

[@Spiros_Pandis]

Beautifully to the point and love the way you critique your own (lovely) work to teach others as well as self-reflecting in order to continually improve. Inspiring stuff!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Spyros Pandis Many Thanks! Always a work in progress😀

[@hassanscottodierno9284]

Thanks so much for your videos, you have really added value. I am new to this and have focused more on portraits of family and friends as well as my cats. I am excited to also experiment with landscape photography (once these lockdowns are over)!

[@syruslaishram]

Best teacher 👍

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Syrus Laishram Best comment - thank yoU🙏

[@korffyboy91]

Thank you so much for that amazing kind of input! I'm always in between shooting street (recently trying to make it rather minimal) and landscape. Finally, there's some good advice of how to combine these styles

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Ahh yes - I think the combination of those two can create incredible results!

[@ryanyarnell1]

Good tips & info Mark, much appreciated as always!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Thank ya Ryan!

[@kurisutofusan]

I found this channel a few days ago and I love it! You explain very well and your voice and ton are perfect for teaching! I had been tempted to ask for photo reviews for improvement so I'm very happy that you're going to do it! Someday I hope I can send one for review!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Christophe Ferreira Much appreciated Christopher - thank you!

[@ericklindberg8377]

Great video Mark! I've never really tried to do any "minimalistic" photography. I think I may try. See you next week my friend!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

It's very therapeutic - quite relaxing honestly! A nice break from all the compositional thinking at times:)

[@Klaus53123]

Marc, I really love watching your videos. Great content and even better presentation. Keep up!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Klaus Beckmann Very much appreciate that - thank you!

[@TheMojo140]

Again, spot on, Mark !

[@tompetersphotography]

Great vlog Mark, some lovely images! I am also very addicted to Minimalism!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

PhotoNinja Thank ya buddy! It’s by far the most relaxing form of outdoor photography IMO.

[@massimociarafoni9339]

Very nice video and very informative channel . Often you do good points during your videos , like the 5 qualities in this one , ... may I suggest a final recap of these at the end of your videos ? Keep up the excellent work.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Massimo Ciarafoni Many thanks - glad you enjoyed it! That’s a great idea regarding the recap - thanks for that👍

[@Sayan1-p3b]

Great informative video Mark! This makes me want to take minimalistic photos more! Also just sent my photos to you. Hope it gets selected!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Sayan Das Thanks so much - can’t wait to take a look at them👍

[@pm1Chh]

As alwaysa lot of usefull informations that you shared with us. So many thanks for that. Im not realy into minimalistic style yet, but after wathing this i will try it out.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

That's great to hear! I bet you'll enjoy it, I find it very relaxing searching for minimalistic compositions.

[@ottomyers3]

First off I want to say thank you for your videos they have helped me so much. I wanted to ask if you have used the Brenizer Method at all and if you could possibly do a video explaining how to do it. I know there are other videos online but I find the way you explain things is more to my learning curve. Thanks again, Happy shooting!!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Otto Myers Thanks Otto! I can look to putting something together like that.

[@leonardsmith82]

I'm only a month into photography and have a lot to learn. I feel like I should focus on this style as a beginner, then move on to something more complex as I learn. Thank you for sharing 😁👍

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Glad to do it and thank yoU for watching!

[@ivanlupi5123]

You made my life soooo much easier with the luminance range in LR thank you. Really like your videos.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Ivan Lupi Much appreciated Ivan - thank you!

[@niftytwo]

Thank you Mark. Your usual self shines again. I always look forward to new ideas especially via Leaders with integrity. Neville J.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Neville Jones Many Thanks Neville! Always appreciate your comments friend!

[@TefkrosAirliner]

This channel needs more subs

[@chinmaysawarkar9511]

Always great watching your videos Mark! 😁 Could you do one on metering, focus points and some other settings of cameras that are usually overlooked for landscape, if possible?

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Chinmay Sawarkar Thanks Chinmay! I made a video a couple months ago all about focus that may help.

[@TheOnlyGuess]

Thx for the tips

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

TheOnlyGuess Glad to do it👍

[@MrCochise71]

Fantastic video bud. I know this topic well. Moving from LA to Utah was the best thing I did for my life. And photography. Fall is coming fast here. Shooting fish lake national Forest soon! Winter shooting Antelope Island!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Much appreciated - thank you! Yes UT is a landscape photogs dream - enjoy it!

[@random_guy611]

Really helpful video

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Thanks so much!

[@MegaLock99]

I like your shot with the seaweed. I'm sure you've looked already but have you tried maybe a square crop with it. Crop out the top third maybe.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Thank you! Yep, if I were to re- edit it, that's more than likely what I would do!

[@ShimodaDesigns]

Well done with the appropriate lighting :)

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Shimoda Designs Low key & minimal😀

[@paulm8157]

Useful info, clearly presented and illustrated, Mark. (Chain link pic the exception.)😊. When I think of minimalist image/landscape, classic Japanese prints come to mind. Agree?

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Ahhh yes - very much agree!

[@TheEti1980]

Great video and I like the way you discussed black and white by going black and white with your video. At first, thought something was wrong with my eyes. Where are you located? I am in Northern Utah, great place for landscape photography which I am now going to start. Thanks

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Thanks Ed - glad you enjoyed it! I live in North Carolina and love your state! UT is fantastic for landscape photography!

[@siddharghyamukherjee987]

You have been a real source of inspiration to me, especially in this video. I am really looking to get into this approach to photography. In fact, I have already shot some images which may be considered as minimalistic. But, what about minimalistic approach towards photographic gear? What is your recommendation in this regard? Can I carry a camera and only one lens? And, if yes what lens it should be?

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Thanks so much - very kind of yoU! Yes, minimalistic with gear is always a good thing. I only use two lenses, a 16-35 and a 100-400mm.

[@johndoherty6448]

6' 30...very subtle... 👍

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

All about the little things:)

[@lammydi]

Great content. I always learn something new from you. Keep it up my friend. :)

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Thanks so much!

[@PatrickReid3]

Hi Mark, Another great video! Thanks for doing what you do! Quick question. What nd filter do you use most often? I'm looking to buy one good one and wondering how many stops I should buy for my first quality filter.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Patrick Reid Thanks Patrick - glad to do it! I’d say I use my NiSi 6 stop the most.

[@PatrickReid3]

@@MarkDenneyPhoto Thanks again, Mark!

[@darksideemt]

Sending my pics now, hopefully they come through.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Thanks Travis - can't wait to check them out!

[@iczemi]

I have sent one photo from lake Minnewanka in Banff.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Ioan Z Awesome - thank you! Can’t wait to check it out👍

[@allandavies1187]

Hello Mark, If I were to use your link to the Shimoda Photo Backpack Question: Does the Shimoda 60 come with an ICU or... is this ordered separately? And where do I purchase this if needed?

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Allan Davies Hi Allan! They have bundled packages that come with the ICUs and others that don’t. You should be able to order everything direct from their website.

[@mariemicol8279]

Hi Mark, great video as always! Thank you for producing such informative (and relaxing) content! Are you planning on running photo reviews in the future as well? I got really inspired by your channel in the past few weeks so I feel like I want to experiment a bit more before submitting something for review (and haven't got much time til Saturday unfortunately!). Thanks :)

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Marie Micol Thanks so much Marie! I’m sure I’ll end up doing another review sometime in the future that I hope you can join👍

[@PMCN53]

Great advice Mark, minimalistic photography is so interesting. Have a look at a series of images by Murray Fredrick -SALT. images made in Australia’s remote salt lakes with huge mirrors placed to capture & reflect the light. Murray never thinks INSIDE THE BOX. 😊

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Phil McNamara Thanks Phil! That sounds super interesting - I’ll be sure to check that out👍

[@earavichandran]

Practicing. Learning. Practicing for good compositions. I failed to create good composition. That's is my next one year plan. This video, I didn't understand quite. But the images are great.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Many thanks Ravi! Sorry to hear you found the video confusing!

[@earavichandran]

@@MarkDenneyPhoto Definitely not sir. I am new to landscape. I don't know many details. That's why video is not easy to me.

[@cmptrman]

Great video Mark! I'm curious why you decided to focus on minimalistic imagery as your photography goal? Are you planning on making it your new photographic style for all your work or just something you're exploring to shake things up and keep things interesting? It seems you already have plenty of imagery that is minimalistic so maybe this isn't such a new thing for you. Just curious...

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Much appreciated Daniel! I've always focused on it to a certain degree, but with fall and winter coming I figured it was a good time to get serious about focusing on it! We'll see how it goes:)

[@birgitsmetana]

even though the reduced color would fit the minimalist theme better,I really prefer the colored version of the beautiful Napali coast. 😎

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Birgit Smetana Napali coast is something special that’s for sure!

[@GustDeprez]

Do you want us to send a RAW photo to review, or already post-processed? It will definitely be interesting!

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

GustFilms If you could send both that would be great👍

[@paulash171]

@@MarkDenneyPhoto it might be difficult to send a raw file via email due to attachment size limits. Most of my raw files are 20+ MB

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

@@paulash171 Hey Paul! As long as it's smaller than 100MB the email I have setup for it will accept it.

[@dongee6351]

My two penneth on black and white to avoid distraction....I hear this phrase from photographers and I believe it to be totally wrong. Humans see in colour and it is more confusing to see scenes in B & W. E.G. An autumn leaves scene in B & W to me is meaningless, the brain needs to scan and work the image out where the reaction and understanding is immediate in colour. Your two examples, sea shore and coast from air were very nice with lovely colour, especially 'coast from air' with that lovely green. Both drained of life when converted to B & W.

[@patrickcarrierephoto]

In my opinion, the seaweed is the subject.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Patrick Carriere Thanks Patrick👍

[@grantnewton5705]

And I find the waves at the very top distracting .... it would be more minimalistic if these were cropped out

[@richardsoutdoorworld5284]

I submitted photo , but whether you use my photo or not , Just want to say I really like the idea of making videos of getting your viewers involved , I look forward to next weeks video !

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Richard's Outdoor World Much appreciated Richard - thank you! Can’t wait to check out your image👍

[@MickeyGooner]

That plant is minimalistic Mark. Take a pic of that 😉😂

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

hahah! Indeed it is! I'm going to bring it with me on my next trip!

[@valdiskrebs566]

Mickey B. ... it is in good lighting also! 🤔

[@ZappaBlues]

I am not a purist, so I always find myself disagreeing with people on 'what is minimalism' or 'what is constructivism' in that I do not care for strict definitions.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

ZappaBlues That’s fair enough - I get it👍

[@VahramDavoyan]

What is the difference between these 2 pictures on the wall behind you? they seem the same to me.

[@BartRos1980]

Great as always. What is with youtubers and small plants tho? I think its trying to take over your channel, and next the world.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Thank ya Bart! hahah I didn't know that was a thing, but now you have me wondering!

[@MikeMikeYT]

Hi mark

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Hey Mike!

[@AndreasLarzon]

Hi Mark. I hope you didn't feel that my previous comment criticized you in a negative way. If so that was absolutely not my intention. Quite the opposite. / Regards Andreas

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

No worries at all Andreas! I didn't see anything that came across as negative - I may have missed it, but either way I appreciate the comment:)

[@erichstocker4173]

There really aren't any rules in photography. One has compositional tools but not rules. Often one wants something in the center. Square formats are often used in this 'centering' approach. A photo is a personal exploration by the artist.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Erich Stocker 100% agree! The “rules” are nothing more than suggestions.

[@goldsmith4314]

Good job but your videos are so long😥

[@7829mk]

The examples you give of good negative space have too many defining characteristics to be viewed as negative space. The island with the clouds and water I would not look at being an example of good minimal space. The clouds have too much detail and drama to be viewed as negative space. The same goes for the palm trees. The trees are strong, well defined, and are in most part of different shapes. I would not look at that image as being an example of negative space. The idea in minimalism is simplicity. Your image are too complex in my opinion to be considered minimal. The tree in the snow is complex. A split trunk, and many limbs are of different size. The tree is not simple, I see its structure as complex. It is not simple. The little foamy surf again has a complex structure found in its distinctive shape and texture. There is much movement in multiple directions that would prevent me from viewing this image as a minimalist photograph.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

maghi cat It’s all a work in progress😀

[@andrewhookerphotography4774]

Another great video Mark, thank you.

[@MarkDenneyPhoto]

Andrew Hooker Glad to do it Andrew - thank yoU for watching!