Landscape photography isn't just about capturing a scene – it's about telling a story, creating depth, and guiding the viewer's eye through a visual journey. One of the most powerful techniques in my photography toolkit is using natural elements to frame landscapes, transforming sometimes ordinary scenes into worthy compositions.
Understanding Natural Framing
Natural framing is like creating a window, by strategically positioning trees, rocks, cliffs, or other landscape features, you can dramatically enhance the visual impact of your image. It's not just about what you include, but what you deliberately choose to exclude. One of my favorite images that hangs in my gallery is from an incredible winter day in Slovenia. The fresh snow draped the tree branches and I used them to frame the fairytale island in Bled.
Think of natural frames as the storytellers of your landscape. A gnarled tree branch, a weathered rock formation, or a dramatic cliff edge can direct attention, add context, and create layers of visual interest. It's a bit like selling real estate – you're showcasing the key elements that make the scene compelling.
Choosing Your Natural Frames
Not all natural elements make great frames. Look for features that:
● Have interesting textures
● Create a sense of depth
● Lead the eye towards the main subject
● Provide contrast with the background
Rock Formations: Sculptural Storytellers
Rocky landscapes offer incredible framing opportunities. In places such as our beautiful coastline of Australia, massive rock formations can create incredible natural frames. I remember a shoot at Crescent Head where an amazing sea cave perfectly framed a jagged rock outcrop jutting out from the ocean, creating a sense of drama and scale.
When working with rocks, experiment with different perspectives. Sometimes positioning yourself low to the ground or finding a higher vantage point can transform an ordinary scene into something extraordinary.
Trees: Nature's Elegant Framers
Trees are versatile framing elements. Their branches, trunks, and foliage can create complex, layered compositions. I often look for:
● Overhanging branches
● Trees with interesting silhouettes
● Gaps in foliage that reveal landscapes
Pro tip: During the golden hour, tree silhouettes can create stunning, high-contrast frames that add mood and depth to your image.
Cliff Edges: Dramatic Perspective Shapers
Cliff edges provide some of the most dramatic natural frames. They offer a sense of scale and can dramatically control how a viewer experiences a landscape. Some of the most amazing examples of this are down the Great Ocean Road. If you haven't been down there I highly recommend it as it's a photography paradise, Gibsons Steps is one of my favorites!
Camera Settings and Equipment
For these compositional techniques, I typically use:
● A wide-angle lens (Canon 15-35mm is my go-to)
● Sturdy tripod (Explorer or Sirui brands)
● Neutral density filters for controlling light
● Lowest possible ISO (around 100)
● Apertures between f/8 and f/16 for maximum depth of field
Composition Techniques
● Rule of thirds
● Leading lines
● Balancing foreground and background elements
● Experimenting with negative space
Post-Processing Magic
In post-processing, I use tools like Lightroom and Photoshop to:
● Enhance texture
● Adjust contrast
● Fine-tune colour balance
● Selectively brighten or darken areas to draw attention
Breaking the Rules
Remember, photography rules are guidelines, not strict commandments. If a composition looks good and captures your vision, shoot it! Trust your creative instinct.
Practical Advice
● Scout locations in advance
● Arrive early to set up
● Experiment with multiple angles and look for things to frame your composition.
● Be patient and persistent, the more you train your eye the easier it will be.
Keep an eye on my YouTube channel for more detailed tutorials on these techniques. Happy shooting, and may your landscapes always tell a compelling story!