Wide angle lenses can capture expansive views, but using them effectively takes practice. Choosing the right focal length and understanding composition techniques can help you elevate your landscape shots and make the most of this versatile tool.

Coming to you from Christian Möhrle of The Phlog Photography, this informative video covers the basics of using wide angle lenses in landscape photography and how to avoid common mistakes. Wide angle lenses generally fall between 16mm and 35mm focal lengths, offering flexibility for most scenes. While ultra-wide lenses, like 11mm, can seem appealing, they often make compositions feel cluttered. For a balanced approach, a 16-35mm lens is recommended. It's wide enough to capture grand vistas but allows tighter framing when necessary.

Building a strong composition is essential when shooting with a wide angle lens. Möhrle emphasizes starting with a general view of your location and then identifying a compelling foreground element. Wide lenses exaggerate the foreground, so including features like rocks, branches, or patterns can add depth and guide the viewer's eye. Overcrowding the foreground, however, can detract from the image's clarity. Positioning elements carefully ensures that the composition stays focused and impactful.

Leading lines are another crucial aspect of wide angle photography. Roads, fences, rivers, and even natural features like tree branches can direct attention toward the main subject. Möhrle suggests practicing with both literal and implied lines to enhance the flow of your compositions. This approach can make your images feel dynamic and engaging.

Techniques like using lower angles or getting closer to the subject can create dramatic perspectives. Wide lenses can distort objects, making them appear larger or more imposing. This effect is particularly useful for emphasizing textures or creating a sense of scale. However, it requires careful focus management to keep both the foreground and background sharp. Möhrle recommends smaller apertures, like f/11 or f/16, or using focus stacking to achieve maximum sharpness. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Möhrle.

And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out our latest tutorial, "Photographing the World: Japan II - Discovering Hidden Gems with Elia Locardi!"