In this post:

Use Manual Mode
Low ISO
Keep Aperture Around f/11
Timer Setting
Proper White Balance
RAW Formatting

There are several challenges that comes with photographing landscapes. The main reason being that the lighting is constantly changing! So here are some tips for what camera settings are going to be the best for landscape photography.

1. Use Manual Mode

While the quick shoot settings on most digital camera are easier to use than manual mode, the best way to get the shot you're looking for is to do it yourself! You will have easier access to your on-camera histogram for a more precise balance of highlights and shadows.

2. Choose a low ISO

A lower ISO will result in less noise in your images, which is especially important for landscape photography, where details are often critical. Stick to an ISO setting around 100, especially if you're photographing in the daylight. That way, you'll get less noise in your pictures and have an easier time editing.

3. Use a small aperture

Even though you can typically use an aperture as small as f/22, most people recommend that you stay around f/11. A smaller aperture, such as f/8 or f/11, will easily increase your depth of field and help ensure that everything in the scene is in sharp focus.

4. Use a remote or self-timer

If you're wanting to take pictures with longer exposures, such as to soften the look of flowing water, first of all use a tripod! Tripods will keep your camera from shaking much more than if you were to hold it by hand. Though, for the best photos, using a cable release, remote, or even the timers that are on your camera are going to be your best friend. This will make sure that you don't accidentally bump your camera as you're pressing the button and keep it sharp.

5. Use the proper white balance settings

White balance adjusts the color balance in your camera's images to ensure that white objects appear white under different lighting conditions. When you adjust the white balance setting on your camera, you are telling the camera what color temperature the light source is, so that it can adjust the colors in your image accordingly. Using the proper setting will ensure that you get the most accurate and fullest spectrum of color for your photos!

6. Use RAW file format

When photographing landscapes, you're going to want to keep as much file data as possible. JPEGs can only hold so much color, highlight, and shadow information. Comparatively, RAW file formats keep all of the information you shoot, so when you sit down to edit your photos, you have much more creative control!

Remember, these are just general guidelines, and the optimal settings will depend on your creative vision and the specific conditions you are working with. Experimentation is key to finding what works best for you.

What are your go-to settings for landscape photography? Comment below!