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Home → Essays and Inspiration

Never Stop Seeing

By Elizabeth 48 Comments
Last Updated On February 11, 2018

What do you do if you spend weeks planning a photography adventure, and then when the time to experience that adventure arrives, something comes up that spoils all your preparation? Maybe its the weather, maybe its a park closure, or maybe the fall colour was two weeks late. Experiences like these can happen to anyone. And unfortunately, I have seen too many photographers throw up their hands, stow their camera, and abandon all that they had planned just because things didn’t turn out how they imagined. This type of experience should never stop you from seeing! You just need to learn how to see differently. Keep reading and I’ll give you some tips for tackling just such a situation.

Table of Contents

  • Great Plans
  • Its all in the Details
  • See the World in Black and White
  • It’s on the Horizon
  • Mood
  • Talk to the Locals
  • Be Prepared
  • Never Stop Seeing

Great Plans

In late August my husband and I planned a photography trip. The purpose of the trip was two-fold. We would start from our home in Vancouver and drive through southern British Columbia to the Kootenays. The Kootenays are a beautiful area of the province that includes the southern B.C. Rocky Mountains, numerous lakes, and wild rivers. We would spend several days here visiting with one of our daughters. We planned on doing lots of hiking. And of course, lots of photography, capturing images of the surrounding lakes, forests, and mountains.

Fernie_Flowers
Flowers Line the Streets of Fernie, near Cranbrook.
X100F @ 23mm, ISO 200, 1/750, f/4.0
Window-Mountain
Window Mountain
X-T2 + XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR @ 16mm, ISO 200, 1/280, f/8.0

The second part of the trip was focused entirely on photography. From the Kootenays, we would head down to the Palouse. The Palouse is a beautiful corner of southeastern Washington State and the neighbouring area in western Idaho. It is about a 300 km drive south of the U.S./Canada border. The region is known for its beautiful patchwork of rolling hills and wheat fields. The landscape is dotted with farms and small towns. The weather in this area often brings intense skies filled with storm clouds and rainbows. The area is a landscape photographer’s dream. In early fall, the fields would be golden, and the fall harvest would be underway.

Before we left, I spent hours researching where to shoot in the Palouse. I had mapped out all the iconic barns and dilapidated farmhouses. I knew where to capture the vast vistas of the region. I read all I could on the area and looked at countless images from other photographers. I talked with other photographers who had shot in the area to find out their favourite locations. And finally, I created a very detailed shot list. Remember, I am an engineer with an A-type personality!

However, the worst forest fire season on record thwarted all my preparation! The 2017 fire season in British Columbia will be known for having the largest total area burned, the largest single fire in B.C. history, and the largest number of evacuees in a fire season. As a result of the wildfires, smoke blanketed most of the province and Washington State with a thick haze.

Here is what greeted us in Cranbrook and the Palouse!

Cranbrook Smoke
The smoke in Cranbrook enveloped everything.
X-T2 + XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR @ 100mm, ISO 800, 1/750, f/8.0
View from Steppe Bute
View from Steptoe Butte
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 90.6mm, ISO 200, 1/170, f/8.0

To give you a better idea of what we should have seen, here are two images created by a friend of mine, Olaf Sztaba. Olaf is a professional photographer based in Vancouver. He often leads workshops to the Palouse region. He was a valuable resource for our trip.

Olaf Sztaba Palouse 1
Printed with permission, copyright Olaf Sztaba
X-Pro2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 200, 1/420, f/8.0
Olaf Sztaba Palouse 2
Printed with permission, copyright Olaf Sztaba
X-Pro2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 200, 1/450, f/8.0

From a photography perspective, the smoke not only obliterated the landscape from view, but it created a lifeless sky. The smoke produced very flat light, which negated all the texture from the scenery. In some instances, the visibility was down to meters.
How was I to take landscape photographs if I couldn’t see the landscape? Instead of giving up, I needed to ‘see’ in a different way. No, I wouldn’t be able to get many of my pre-visioned shots, but that didn’t mean I would take home empty SD cards!

Its all in the Details

One of the first things I did was look for close-ups. Details that would not be affected by a monotonous sky. I had imagined ‘grand’ when I needed to think ‘tight.’ Shooting close is a trick that I learned a long time ago. Details can be just as exciting as vast vistas. Look for insects, subjects with texture, or subjects that have unusual geometry. Get close, now get closer! Use selective focus with wide apertures to throw uninteresting backgrounds out of focus. Experiment and think outside the box.

Cranbrook_Dragonfly
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 129.2mm, ISO 200, 1/160, f/2.8
Fence-and-Tracks-1
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 74.4mm, ISO 400, 1/600, f/10.0
Green_Textures
X-T2 + XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR @ 27.4mm, ISO 800, 1/125, f/10.0
Morgan
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 106mm, ISO 200, 1/1400, f/2.8
Old Car Detail
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 90.6mm, ISO 200, 1/45, f/8.0
Oliver
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 94.5mm, ISO 400, 1/1700, f/2.8
Stems of Wheat
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 200, 1/2000, f/4.0
Taps
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 106mm, ISO 400, 1/420, f/8.0

See the World in Black and White

The smoke muted most of the colours from the fields, so instead of trying to capture the various hues of gold and yellow against blue skies and puffy clouds, I shot with black and white in mind. With monochrome, the emphasis would be on the texture, tones and graphic details. It is amazing how an image in black and white can have so much more power than it’s coloured counterpart sometimes.

Here is the same image in colour and black and white.

BW Comparison 1
The large pale sky and muted tones take away from interest in this image.
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 400, 1/1000, f/8.0
BW Comparison 2
With a black and white conversion, the sky and soft background add to the tones in the image and make for a more interesting photograph.
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 400, 1/1000, f/8.0

If you have a mirrorless camera you can visualize what the scene will look like in monochrome by setting your EVF/LCD to display in black and white. I would recommend shooting in RAW though. This will give you the most latitude when you are back at your computer!

Hills and Pole
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 400, 1/400, f/16.0
Lean to the left
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 94.5mm, ISO 200, 1/340, f/9.0
Rolling Hills
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 200, 1/210, f/11.0
Weather Vane
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 200, 1/550, f/8.0
Windmills
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 400, 1/200, f/16.0

It’s on the Horizon

High up my shot list were images of billowing storm clouds. But with the haze, the sky was featureless. To get around this, I did two things. For many of my compositions, I tried not to include the horizon in the shot at all, or very little of it. Minimizing, or omitting the sky altogether, put more emphasis on the undulating hills and tracks in the fields. Sometimes this was hard to do. If I could not minimize the sky easily, I looked for foreground elements that would block the sky and add interest. Creating images with no horizon had me slowing down more. As a result, I produced much more purposeful photographs.

Bails and Barn
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 50mm, ISO 200, 1/220, f/11.0
Combine and Wheat
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 94.5mm, ISO 200, 1/2200, f/5.6
John Deere
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 50mm, ISO 200, 1/240, f/11.0
Pole in Field
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 400, 1/300, f/16.0
Silo-1
X100F @ 23mm, ISO 200, 1/1000, f/2.0

The other technique I employed was the exact opposite. In these images, I used the blank sky to create negative space. This large, empty area of the photograph adds tension to the image and helps reinforce the vastness of the landscape.

Combine on the Hill
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 68.7mm, ISO 400, 1/210, f/16.0
Deer
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 200, 1/420, f/8.0
Fields of Gold
X100F @ 23mm, ISO 200, 1/240, f/5.0
Lone Tree
X-T2 + XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR @ 18.7mm, ISO 200, 1/160, f/11.0

Mood

I may not have captured the quintessential images of the Rockies or the Palouse, but the smoke added a mood and a sense of mystery that I would not have achieved without it. In a way I was lucky. The conditions I was photographing were unique. I would not take home cliche images, and I needed to take advantage of that. With the decreased visibility I layered elements in my images. I looked for strong foreground elements like silhouettes of trees or power poles to add a sense of depth.

Cranbrook Smoke 2
X-T2 + XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR @ 100mm, ISO 800, 1/450, f/13.0
Old Pine
X-T2 + XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR @ 100mm, ISO 640, 1/250, f/11.0

One evening we went up to the top of Steppe Bute. Steppe Bute is an iconic landmark where you get a 360-degree view of the surroundings. You can see for miles, most of the time! I had to get a bit creative since the visibility was no more than a hundred metres! I experimented with different compositions of the sun and cellular tower since I could not see the fields.

Sun and Antenna
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 50mm, ISO 200, 1/2400, f/2.8
Sunset Steppe Bute
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 200, 1/170, f/11.0

Talk to the Locals

Another thing I tried to do whenever it was possible was to talk to the locals. Many people in the Palouse have farmed the land for generations. Their stories make the photographs come to life. Take the time to speak with them and get to know them.

This brings me to a point that I wish I did not need to mention. In the past several years, the selfish actions of some photographers have tarnished the reputation of others. Some photographers have trespassed onto private land, damaging fields and property. If you ‘need’ to get closer, either get permission from the landowner first or use a longer lens! My husband and I made it a point to stop at some of the small local coffee shops. Not only does this support the local economy, but it is a great chance to learn about the region, and potentially meet some of the landowners. We were fortunate to meet several landowners and were permitted to photograph on their properties. We were even invited to photograph inside an old barn.

Cracked Window
X-T2 + XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR @ 55mm, ISO 400, 1/5400, f/2.8
Old Barn Interior
X-T2 + XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR @ 16mm, ISO 200, 8/10, f/11.0
Red Silos and Truck
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 140mm, ISO 400, 1/500, f/8.0
Wire
X-T2 + XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR @ 55mm, ISO 200, 1/1, f/4.0

Be Prepared

Every so often we got a glimpse of the sun. I took those opportunities to capture some more of the “typical” landscapes.

American Flag
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 50mm, ISO 400, 1/150, f/8.0
Combine Truck and Wheat
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 61mm, ISO 200, 1/140, f/22.0
Large Combine
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 83.8mm, ISO 400, 1/600, f/13.0
Old Barn and Cars
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 50mm, ISO 400, 1/450, f/8.0
Old Barn and Fence
X-T2 + XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR @ 124.3mm, ISO 400, 1/320, f/13.0

Never Stop Seeing

So if you run into a situation where conditions are not as you hoped, do not despair. Yes, it will be much harder to shoot. But that is what will make you a better photographer. Look with your eyes, visualize with your heart, and never stop seeing. To quote Jay Maisel, “Ther is no bad light. There is spectacular light and difficult light. It is up to you to use the light you have.”

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Filed Under: Essays and Inspiration Tagged With: Composition, Fujifilm, Landscape Photography, Photography Tips, Tips for Beginners, Travel Photography

About Elizabeth

Elizabeth grew up in Vancouver, on the beautiful West Coast of Canada. In 2012 she relocated to Houston Texas for two years and then moved to Gautier, Mississippi in July of 2014 for another three years. Now back in Vancouver, Elizabeth runs photography workshops and teaches many aspects of photography. Her areas of interest are widespread and include street, wildlife, nature, architecture, macro and long exposures. She is particularly passionate about black and white images. You can see more of her work on her website at www.photographybyelizabethgray.com or on Instagram at photosbyelizabethgray

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Dale
Dale
January 26, 2018 1:29 pm

Awesome photos, you have captured the kinds of shots that I visualize but have yet been able to capture. The barn interior somehow excited me the second it opened, what a shot. You are indeed a talented photographer. Great post as well, thanks for sharing!

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Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Author
Reply to  Dale
January 30, 2018 1:27 pm

Thank you very much, Dale. I’m so glad you enjoyed the article!

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Wally Brooks
Wally Brooks
January 26, 2018 6:05 am

A wonderful life lesson and great photos! A Life Lesson too. Ansel Adams said something like if you don’t like the image turn around and look behind you.

If you look for Blue Cars on the highway you will see them…

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Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Author
Reply to  Wally Brooks
January 26, 2018 9:35 am

Great words, Wally. I have heard that saying, but did not realize who said it. Thanks for sharing and for your kind words.

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Don Tanswell
Don Tanswell
January 26, 2018 1:47 am

We are off to the West Coast of Ireland soon – in March and like you and your expectations of the Palouse much of my pre visit photo “research” has been influenced by the great and good enjoying delightful summer shooting!

My guess is we’ll get feet and damp and possibly rain!

Well I loved this article – expectations based on other people’s work are actually prejudices and how can you preempt what nature gives you on the day!

So for all the images including Olaf’s great work – my thanks, but for the final words, I am humbly grateful!

“…. Jay Maisel, “There is no bad light. There is spectacular light and difficult light. It is up to you to use the light you have.”

I have been inspired by your article
Thanks
Don

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Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Author
Reply to  Don Tanswell
January 26, 2018 9:02 am

Thank you for your comments, Don. I hope you have a wonderful visit to Ireland. I think the spring would be a marvelous time to visit. To me, Ireland is all about fog, mist, and drizzle, and that will make for beautifully moody shots!

I always keep Jay Maisel’s quote with me (and several other quotes that inspire me). I actually have them in my camera bag. They are written on a very tattered piece of paper. Some days, when I have trouble seeing, I slow down, take a break, grab a coffee and read them over. That seems to clear my head, and helps me create again! I know that sounds silly, but it helps me reflect more on why I am shooting in the first place.

Thank you again for your kind words and I hope you create some spectacular photographs on your trip.

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Nick
Nick
January 25, 2018 8:30 am

Thanks for a timely and well though out article, and great photos too.
I’m a 40 year resident of the Palouse and it was incredibly refreshing to see something other than the cliché shots of the Palouse. Not just refreshing, but timely; this has been a rathe dull and grey winter and your article has motivated to go out and look for the small, overlooked details that I take for granted.
Cheers.

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Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Author
Reply to  Nick
January 26, 2018 8:53 am

Hi, Nick. Thank you for your kind words. You live in such a beautiful area, regardless of the weather. I hope to get back down in the spring to create more photographs and talk more with the locals. Thank you for sharing your beautiful corner of the world with us. Take care, and keep shooting!
E.

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Bo Hedqvist
Bo Hedqvist
January 24, 2018 1:06 pm

These images are the result of the fruitful meeting of genius and good, solid craftsmanship.
There is no doubt in my mind that every single one of these astonishing, evocative and mind shifting images is the result of a lot of hard work. persistence and patience.
Your work bears all the hallmarks of the work of a true artist.
Thank you so very much for giving us the opportunity to share your special way of seeing the beauty of this world.

/Bo

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Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Author
Reply to  Bo Hedqvist
January 26, 2018 8:43 am

Bo, that is very kind of you to say! I will try not to let your words go to my head! I’m glad you enjoyed my article and thanks for taking the time to comment.

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A. Kevin Carbone, Phd
A. Kevin Carbone, Phd
January 24, 2018 4:30 am

I had planned a trip last fall to do a Vermont Fall Foliage shoot. The weather was terrible and I was too early. So on the way out with camera in car, while driving back roads I spotted unusual tree shapes (snap), a vintage, rusted tractor peeking of the the woods (snap), an ancient grave yard covering the history of just one family going back to the 1700’s (snap snap snap). And once in a while, a few fall foliage trees. Now in the process of processing. All was not lost.

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Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Author
Reply to  A. Kevin Carbone, Phd
January 24, 2018 10:25 am

I’m so happy to hear that, Kevin! It just goes to prove that it is how you see, not what you see! Thanks for contributing to the conversation.

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Bob
Bob
January 23, 2018 4:08 pm

Lovely images and a well-crafted article. Thank you for contributing this to the site, Elizabeth!

0
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Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Author
Reply to  Bob
January 24, 2018 10:23 am

You are welcome, Bob! I appreciate your thoughtful comments.

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Rosie Smith
Rosie Smith
January 23, 2018 2:36 pm

Truly evocative pictures Elizabeth. You remind us about expectations v being in the moment. You did well getting over that initial frustration about all your preparation, but in the end it provided you with some pictures that may never be witnessed again and given us all something else to think about. Well done.

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Reply
Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Author
Reply to  Rosie Smith
January 24, 2018 10:22 am

Thank you for your kind words, Rosie. The trick is to turn a bleak looking situation around by taking advantage of the fact that you will be getting shots beyond “the norm.”

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Carl Parker
Carl Parker
January 23, 2018 12:52 pm

Thank you, Elizabeth, for the great photos and article. My desire is to one day visit that area and B.C.

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Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Author
Reply to  Carl Parker
January 24, 2018 10:18 am

This is an incredible corner of the planet, Carl. Well worth a visit! If you are ever near Vancouver, let me know and I’ll tell you some great places to shoot! Thanks for taking the time to comment and happy shooting!

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Handsfullmom
Handsfullmom
January 23, 2018 11:53 am

Stunning images! We were in Idaho in August and experienced that same smokey sky! You did great under challenging conditions. Thanks for sharing.

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Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Author
Reply to  Handsfullmom
January 24, 2018 10:17 am

Thank you so much for your kind words! I hope you got some images you were pleased with on your trip too. On the plus side, the smoke acted like one gigantic soft box!

0
Reply

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