Although we’ve had some record-breaking temperatures this week, the stretch leading up to it brought a generous amount of rain — and the payoff is everywhere you look. Landscapes are lush, gardens are thriving, and everything is a vivid green. It’s one of those rare stretches where nature seems to be showing off, and for a professional photographer, that’s gold.
Great landscape photography is all about timing — the light, the season, the weather. Too dry, and everything looks brittle and washed out. Too early in spring, and things haven’t quite come to life. But right now, we’re in a sweet spot. The grass is rich and vibrant, trees are full, and gardens are bursting with color.
Photographing landscapes is part art and part science. It’s about season, time of day, and most importantly, composition. As a professional, I’m always looking for ways to create visual interest, and that starts with depth, contrast, and texture. I seek out angles that highlight the design intention behind the landscape: whether that’s a serene nook, a mass of color and texture, or a sweeping vista.
Lighting plays a significant role. This time of year, the light is long and flattering — perfect for early morning or late afternoon shots that add depth without flattening details. Some scenes may call for soft, dappled morning light. Others benefit from midday sun to reduce shadows from nearby trees or buildings. And sometimes, I want to add drama — using early evening skies or deep shadows to add style and contrast.
My landscape shots are meticulously planned out in advance. Prior to every landscape shoot, I visit the site to determine where I’ll be at what time. Often, I’ll mentally follow the sun around a building to determine the best shots with maximum light.
Along with planning, staging a landscape gives the optimal result. I may request that lawns be manicured, mulch added, flowers planted, or bushes trimmed. On commercial shoots I also look for potential OSHA or insurance violations to forestall problems. I also look for objects that need to be removed, avoided, or that will need to be dealt with in post-production. In some cases, I’ll add props — for example, bright towels or dinner by a pool, a styled patio scene, or anything that enhances the lived-in feel of the space.
This is an ideal time to photograph buildings and their surrounding landscapes. Whether it’s a commercial property, campus, or private residence, robust greenery and blooming gardens provide a natural frame that elevates the structure itself. If your property is looking its best right now, don’t miss the opportunity to capture it. Please give me a call to get on the schedule. These conditions don’t last forever, but a great image does.