Photographing memories

One of the most important tenets of hiking is "Leave only footprints, and take only memories." However, memories can include photographs. Most trails are built with spectacular scenery in mind, and provide a variety of strategic vantage points for photographing both majestic vistas and close-up nature photography.

Composing your shots

Try adding some excitement to your pictures by positioning your subject off-centre rather than smack-dab in the middle of the shot. Decide whether the subject warrants horizontal or vertical treatment based on the inherent characteristics of the piece, e.g., a towering maple tree – vertical, and a vista over a farmers' fields – horizontal. Close-ups using a macro lens can capture the delicate beauty of wildflowers in bloom on the forest floor.

A shot of a group of hikers is improved immensely if they are coming toward you, so you can see their faces rather than their backs. Position yourself well ahead, and consider standing on a rock so you can gain adequate height to include as many hikers as possible as they tread the path toward you.