A Scent of Lemons and Jasmine: Spring Sicily Through My Lens
Spring lemon trees and snowy Etna
Are you thinking where to travel next for your photographic adventure? Have you been in Sicily yet? If not, than keep reading about my trip last spring when I captured the vibrant hues and sweet jasmine scents of Sicily through the lens of my camera.
For years, my friends have known about my soft spot for Italy— not only because I lived there for a few years, but also due to the irresistible charm of its food, weather, places, culture, fashion, and more. 'A L L O R A', join me as I rediscover the charming town of Taormina, the volcanic beauty of Mount Etna, the tranquility of Marzamemi, and the chaotic fish market in Catania.
With an average temperature of 20C during Easter time, it was the perfect condition to travel and explore hidden gems of Sicily.
Lemon trees in Sicilian countryside.
Staying in the countryside, not far from Taormina, was the best decision. I will never forget the moment of getting out of the car and immediately being hit with such a strong and zesty scent. Of course, I was surrounded by lemon trees as far as I could see! The scent of lemons lingered in the air, a fragrance that instantly transported me back to the warm days of Italian summers. Lemons everywhere! And Etna in the background. What an incredible welcoming view.
Taormina
My first stop was at the bottom of Taormina, at Isola Bella beach. Isola Bella is a small, idyllic island located just off the eastern coast of Sicily, near the town of Taormina. Nestled in the Ionian Sea, it is often referred to as the "Pearl of the Ionian Sea."
The beach at Isola Bella is accessible via staircase with a considerable number of steps. It can be challenging for some, but it’s worth it —a pristine, pebbled beach surrounded by turquoise waters.
Taormina boasts breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. The combination of lush landscapes, crystalline waters, and the imposing volcano creates a stunning backdrop. Corso Umberto, the heart of the town, is a bustling street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
The Greek Theatre is a a perfect place to capture amazing view around Taormina. There are many possible photo compositions to play with.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky was painted in hues of soft pinks and fiery oranges. The cloud formations above Etna added an ethereal touch. I took the image on a slope of Taormina not far from San Domenico Palace. If you have been watching series of The White Lotus (season 2) than you know exactly what I’m talking about as many of the scenes were filmed there and in Taormina :) At 1/60s shutter speed Leica didn’t have a problem to deliver sharp and perfectly light balanced picture.
Sunset sky above Mount Etna. View from Taormina hills.
Mount Etna
Mount Etna is the tallest active volcano in Europe and one of the most active volcanoes globally. Its activity level varies, with both explosive eruptions and effusive eruptions characterized by the flow of lava. Its height is constantly changing due to its frequent eruptions. UNESCO World Heritage Site. In winter, Mount Etna's slopes are sometimes covered with snow and you can experience the rare combination of skiing down a volcano with views of the Mediterranean. You can take guided tours to explore its craters, caves, and lava fields. The cable car and off-road vehicles facilitate access to higher elevations for panoramic views.
Snowy Etna in spring
Easy parking is available at Rifugio Sapienza, especially if you arrive early in the morning. Whether you prefer hiking, taking a lift, or joining a special off-road car there are various options to reach the upper reaches of Mount Etna.
However, a friendly tip: Make sure to dress warmly. I underestimated the chilly temperature up there!
The Silvestri Craters
The Silvestri Craters are located on Mount Etna, within the larger context of the Parco dell'Etna (Etna Regional Park). These craters are part of the volcanic complex on the eastern side of Mount Etna. The Silvestri Craters consist of two main craters, named Silvestri Superiore and Silvestri Inferiore. These craters formed during the eruption of Mount Etna in 1892. They are easily accessible.
As I walked around, the colour tones and visual smoothness made me feel like I was on a moonwalk. The allure of this landscape is phenomenal.
Silvestri Craters
Visitors exploring the Silvestri Craters.
Marzamemi
Marzamemi is located southeast of Taormina, approximately 140 kilometers by car, and the journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. In Marzamemi, the coastal tranquility met my lens and to me, it is a hidden gem. The pastel colours of fishermen's houses and the vivid blue of the sea created a soothing palette. The scent of saltwater mingled with the air, giving a sense of serene isolation at the onset of early spring. However, my perception shifted as I discovered the open piazza and surrounding streets; they came alive with vibrancy and colour.
On the way, I recommend making a stop at Noto, a charming town renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture, earning it a designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is approximately halfway between Taormina and Marzamemi, making it a convenient stop along the route.
The wide-angle lens perfectly captured the magical beauty of the scenery.
Marzamemi, a coastal town, where blue dominates
Catania
Catania was not only my point of arrival and departure in Sicily but also a vibrant introduction to the island's rich culture. One of my memorable experiences was exploring the famous fish market, La Pescheria. Overflowing with fresh produce and vibrant hues, the market pulsated with the dynamic essence of Sicilian life. Despite the less-than-perfect weather that day, immersing myself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of the bustling market added another layer of depth to my Sicilian journey.
Composition
This trip was a perfect blend of street, landscape, and travel photography. I have experimented with various compositions and explored different angles to capture the essence of each scene. Composition is key in photography, and elements like leading lines, symmetry, and the rule of thirds can truly elevate the visual impact of photographs. I've previously discussed the use of lines and repetition in one of my earlier blog posts ‘Using Lines and Repetition’.
I enjoy playing with angles that convey a sense of immediacy and intimacy. Low angles, especially, can add depth and drama to both street and landscape shots, immersing the viewer in the scene.
Let's quickly dive into the magic of vision. Visual art and vision go hand in hand in landscape photography, allowing me to shape the composition, mood, and narrative of each image captured. To me, landscape photography is a form of visual storytelling. With my camera as my tool, I translate my vision of the world into tangible images.
But here's the thing about landscape photography—it's not just about what you see; it's about how you feel. It's about capturing the emotion and beauty of the natural world in a way that resonates with viewers on a deeper level. It's about inviting them to see the world through my eyes and experience the wonder of the landscapes I explore. In the end, landscape photography is my way of seeing the world. It's about discovering beauty in the ordinary and sharing that beauty with others.
What was in my camera bag?
I travelled with 2 cameras and 2 lenses. Easy to fit everything into my Peak Design backpack, where I always carry lens cleaner and a tripod with different ND and UV filters.
Nikon Z6
Leica M11
Nikkor Z 24-70mm/f2.8 S
Summilux-M 35/f1.4 ASPH
UV and CPL filters
Battery charger
I brought my beloved Nikon Z6 paired with a versatile 24-70mm lens to capture the details of Sicilian landscapes. I really adore this lens —a workhorse in the world of photography, known for its incredible versatility and sharpness.
The 24-70mm focal length range is a game-changer. It allowed me to seamlessly transition from landscapes to intimate details without the need for constant lens changes. With its wide f/2.8 aperture, I was able to achieve exceptional low-light performance, ensuring that I could capture Sicily in any lighting condition.
I also brought along the Leica M11, a true marvel in the world of photography, and the Summilux-M 35/f1.4 ASPH lens. Its all-manual functionality forced me to slow down, ensuring a deliberate and contemplative approach to each shot. Every adjustment, every click became a mindful process, allowing me to connect with the art of photography and the landscapes I was capturing.
I hope this blog post has both inspired and teased your curiosity, leaving you eager to start your own Sicilian adventure! Ready for the magic?
See more images from Sicily in my Travel Photography Collection.
Happy spring and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
Dolomites Photography: Skiing with a Camera
Just returned from skiing adventure with my camera in the Dolomites. Yes, SKIING WITH MY CAMERA. I can assure you, that for me, despite being a good skier, it was both exciting and nerve-wrecking. How could I possibly protect my beloved camera while carving through the snow down the slopes?
Having been returning to my favorite spot in the Dolomites for many years, I didn’t have to worry about location planning and scouting. The Trentino Dolomites always amaze me with their stunning year-round beauty. Each visit is not just about capturing breathtaking moments on camera, but also about indulging in the delicious food, enjoying the company of great friends, and soaking in the majestic scenery. If you haven’t experienced the Trentino Dolomites yet, I hope my photographs will inspire you to make the trip.
Let's dive into the essentials of preparing my camera for the skiing adventure, along with some safety tips.
Gear Prep and Safety tips
Proper Protection
A couple years ago, my husband bought me a weather-sealed mini messenger bag, and I must to say, it’s one of my addition to my handbag collection:). I can wear it either as a cross body or a waist bag. Thanks to this, I know that my camera and lenses are well protected from moisture, snow, and extreme cold. Lens hoods and filters shield against snowflakes or water droplets. Plus, its design matches well with any outfit too!
Battery Management:
Cold weather can drain batteries faster, so I carried a spare one. You can warm up batteries inside your jacket before use to extend their lifespan during shooting sessions. I was pleasantly surprised how long Leica’s battery lasted! To be honest, weather was on my side too - sunny February day!
Handle with Care:
Sudden temperature changes when transitioning from outdoor to indoor environments can make condensation inside your gear. I used a microfiber cloth to gently wipe away any moisture or snowflakes and I also packed moisture-absorbing silica gel packets inside my bag to absorb any excess moisture. In this case, it was just a precaution, as it was warm and sunny, and I didn’t have to deal with extreme temperatures.
Capture with Confidence:
Leica M11 excels in extreme conditions, boasting improved weather sealing and durability. Its high-resolution sensor and exceptional low-light performance ensure stunning image quality even in challenging lighting conditions.
Safety First:
Are you easily caught up in the thrill of capturing stunning shots while skiing? While it can be very exciting for some, it's crucial to remember that skiing or snowboarding is a shared experience. Being mindful of others and maintaining a safe distance, especially near cliffs, can prevent accidents. So, let’s leave the airpods with loud music behind, stay alert, and prioritise safety above all else.
Enjoy the Moment:
While capturing breathtaking images is undoubtedly rewarding, remember to immerse yourself in the experience and savor the beauty of the Dolomites. Take breaks to appreciate the stunning landscapes and recharge both yourself and your gear. Doss del Sabion is the best "‘rifugio’ to get recharged with quick refreshment or a long gourmet dish, relax and appreciate the amazing 360-degree view.
I waited for the right composition and captured a paraglider floating in the air during my break at Doss del Sabion. It was an amazing scenery.
What was in my camera bag?
Leica M11
35mm Summilux
50mm Apo summicron
Extra battery and charger
Silica gel packet
UV filter
Clean microfiber cloth
As I reflect on my skiing adventure with a proper camera in the stunning Dolomites, I admit it has been both exhilarating and enlightening. Experiences like these are best shared with friends, filled with the joy and memories. The crisp mountain air, the rush of skiing down pristine slopes, and the breathtaking views around every corner—all captured through the lens of my camera, imprinted in my memory.
Note to self: embrace skiing with a camera, pack a zoom lens for enhanced captures, and extend the stay for even more cherished moments!
Discover more images in my Travel Photography Collection.
Happy skiing and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
Exploring Madrid's Essence with Leica M11 and 35mm/50mm Lenses
Puerta del Sol, Madrid
Last month, as I prepared for my short city break in Madrid, a delightful dilemma unfolded before me: the choice between the trusty 50mm and the immersive 35mm lens. As a relatively new and humble owner of Leica M11, the prospect of discovering Madrid through the lens of my Leica was an exciting one. Picture me, standing before my camera bag, with both the Leica 50mm and 35mm lenses beckoning me to make a choice. Each lens possessed its own unique charm and capabilities, and the decision before me held the potential to influence the way I'd capture the essence of the city. I, however, couldn't resist the temptation of having both lenses at my disposal, so I left with both.
The 35mm Lens: Discovering the Intimate Details
The 35mm lens is like a storyteller. Its focal length offers a near-natural perspective. I browsed through the heart of Madrid's streets and neighborhoods and captured the details of:
Street Photography: Madrid's streets are bustling with life, from its historic center to the charming barrios. The 35mm lens proved to be perfect for capturing candid moments, the expressions of locals, and the ever-changing dynamics of the city.
Architecture: With this lens, I focused on the ornate façades, wrought-iron balconies.
Markets and Cafés: The 35mm lens beautifully conveyed the warmth and authenticity of Madrid's Mercado de San Miguel, from its colorful food stalls to the inviting aroma of café con leche and churos.
Alleys and Plazas: I wandered through the charming and picturesque Plaza Mayor and found the 35mm lens perfect for capturing the architectural details and busy tourists admiring the Madrid’s temperament.
Night and Low Light Photography: Despite leaving my tripod behind, the 35mm lens captured the magic of Madrid at night. In places like the Cathedral de la Almudena, it beautifully detailed the intricate ceiling and the play of light within.
The 50mm Lens: Portraits and Classic Elegance
The 50mm lens is celebrated for its versatility and its capacity to craft timeless images. Often hailed as an all-rounder, it rightfully earned its reputation. With its standard focal length, it perfectly mirrors the natural perspective of the human eye, making it an exceptional companion for street photography. It’s amazing for (and not only) portraits, landscape, street photography, details.
With the 50mm lens, my attention was drawn to the passionate street performers and a busy life of tourists and locals at Puerta del Sol.
What was in my camera bag?
Leica Camera M11
35mm Summilux
50mm Apo summicron
Yes, this time, I traveled much lighter compared to my previous trips! I even didn’t need my proper camera bag, my handbag was just fine:)
To sum it up, having both the 35mm and 50mm lenses for my Madrid city break was a great choice. I enjoyed the freedom to switch between the two. While both lenses are remarkable in their own right, I found myself naturally gravitating towards the 35mm lens during this trip. Its wider field of view captured the vibrancy and intimacy of bustling streets. It allowed me to immerse myself in the surroundings, capturing both the subtle details and the unfolding stories. It made my go-to choice for street photography and city breaks.
Explore more images from Madrid in my Travel Photography Collection.
Happy exploring and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
Iceland Through the Mist: Photography Tips for Foggy Conditions
Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
When it comes to photography destinations, few places on Earth can rival the enchanting landscapes of Iceland. This Nordic island nation is a photographer's dream, with its dramatic volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, icy glaciers, and the elusive Northern Lights dancing across the night sky.
In this blog, I share my experiences, travel tips, recommended gear, and a glimpse of some shots I captured during my trip in Iceland in June when Iceland is at its greenest.
Why June?
June falls within Iceland's short summer season when the weather is generally milder and more predictable. While June is a popular time to visit Iceland, it generally sees fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months of July and August. This means less crowded attractions and more opportunities to enjoy the beauty of Iceland's landscapes without the hustle and bustle. Mainly, June meant more daylight hours for my photography:)
My Top 5 Travel Tips for Photographing in Iceland:
Time Your Visit: Iceland's beauty changes dramatically with the seasons. Summer offers the "Midnight Sun" with almost 24 hours of daylight, while winter promises the magical Northern Lights. Choose the time that aligns with your photography goals. I picked June and I will have to come back for Northern Lights!
Weather Readiness: I am a sun lover and the imagination of being cold can easily put me off. I made sure to be prepared for unpredictable weather. I packed plenty of layers and waterproof clothing, comfortable hiking boots (rather than just trainers as walking around waterfalls can be slippery).
Rent a 4x4 Car: Many of Iceland's most photogenic spots are off the beaten path, accessible only by rugged roads. A 4x4 vehicle is often necessary for reaching these locations safely.
Pack Essentials: Besides your camera and lenses, don't forget a sturdy tripod for long exposures, extra camera batteries, memory cards, and a lens cleaning kit.
Respect Nature: Iceland's pristine landscapes are fragile. Always follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on marked paths, and respect local regulations.
How to Photograph in Foggy Weather
Have you ever experienced the magic of foggy Iceland?
Iceland's weather, ever unpredictable, threw me a challenge: foggy weather. Initially disappointed, I soon learned to embrace it. Fog helped me to create an ethereal and mysterious atmosphere that's perfect for unique and moody photography. Whether you're in the midst of a thick fog or dealing with a light mist, here are some tips that helped me to make the most of photographing in foggy weather in Iceland:
1. Embrace the Mood:
Fog adds a sense of mystery and drama to the shots. As I mentioned earlier I embraced the atmospheric conditions, and used them to my advantage. It created a dreamy and surreal quality in my photographs.
2. Use a Wide-Angle Lens:
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness of Iceland's landscapes, even in fog. It can exaggerate the sense of scale and depth, making images more compelling. I was changing three lenses - a wide angle lens, a telephoto lens and a mid-range zoom lens (24-70mm).
3. Focus on Foreground Elements:
When visibility is limited due to heavy fog, focus on capturing interesting foreground elements, like rocks, trees etc. These elements can als add depth and context to photos.
4. Experiment with Silhouettes:
Use the fog to create striking silhouettes. Place your subject or an interesting object in front of a light source (such as the sun breaking through the fog), and expose for the background to create a powerful silhouette.
5. Use a Tripod:
In foggy conditions, you may need longer exposures to capture enough light. A tripod will keep your camera steady and prevent blur in your shots. This is especially important in low light situations.
6. Adjust Your Exposure:
Fog can fool your camera's light meter, resulting in underexposed images. To compensate, open up your aperture, slow down your shutter speed, or increase your ISO to let in more light. I set up white balance on auto.
7. Capture Details:
Get up close to capture the intricate details that fog can highlight, like the texture of moss-covered rocks, or the way fog clings to trees and other objects.
8. Use Leading Lines:
Leading lines can guide the viewer's eye through the misty landscape. Natural lines in the environment, like paths, rivers, or fences look great in composition.
9. Post-Processing: - Post-processing software can help with enhancing the contrast and clarity in foggy photos. Adjusting the contrast and adding a touch of vignetting can make images pop. By increasing saturation and then converting image to monochrome really enhances the mood and contrast in black and white photography.
Fog can come and go quickly in Iceland so sometimes patience is the key!
What was in my camera bag?
Wide-angle Lens (14-30mm): Iceland's epic landscapes demand a wide-angle lens to capture the stunning scenery.
Telephoto Lens (100-400mm) and a mid-range Zoom Lens (24-70mm): For shooting distant subjects like waterfalls or wildlife, a telephoto lens comes in handy.
ND Filters: Neutral density filters are essential for controlling exposure and achieving dreamy long-exposure shots of waterfalls and rivers (with constant daylight in Iceland, they rightly justified their space in my bag)
A Sturdy Tripod: Iceland's strong winds can be challenging for long exposures. A sturdy tripod is a must to keep your camera steady.
My Journey Through Iceland's Photographic Wonders
In the spirit of sharing my personal experience, here's a glimpse of my journey through Iceland's photographic wonders:
Reykjavik, The Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park; Geysir Geothermal Site, Gullfoss Waterfall; South Coast - Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Black Sand Beach (Reynisfjara), Vik, Laki Crater
Photographing in foggy weather can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. It transforms Iceland's landscapes into a realm of mystery and enchantment, offering a unique perspective that sets photos apart. Through my lens, I hope I've been able to share a slice of Iceland's beauty with you.
For more images from Iceland explore my Travel Photography Collection here.
Embrace the fog and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
From the Boat's Perspective: Stunning Views of Mallorca's Coastline
I've got to tell you, capturing those mesmerising moments from a boat along the Mallorca coast was an absolute game-changer. It's like the coast opens up a whole new world of possibilities for my camera lens. I mean, who wouldn't want to be in the middle of that breathtaking scenery?
Mallorca is a stunning island located in the Balearic Sea, off the eastern coast of Spain. It is known for its crystal clear waters, gorgeous sandy beaches, and rocky cliffs. This time I explored the island's coastline by taking a boat tour. From the boat, I was able to see the island's beauty from a completely different perspective.
Palma, my starting point of the boat trip
I’m not sure what it is about lighthouses but they hold a special place in my heart. Their majestic presence, guiding light, and rich history evoke a sense of adventure and nostalgia. To me they symbolise hope, safety, and the courage to navigate life's storms.
When I was cruising around them I found it a bit challenging to take straight photos at the beginning as the boat was constantly moving. I openly admit that some straightening and editing had to be done later in my favourite editing software, Lightroom.
What was in my camera bag?
When preparing my camera bag for the boat trip I made sure to take polarizing and ND filters. I used my Nikon Z6 camera together with Nikkor Z 24-70mm/f2.8S and Nikkor Z 100-400mm/f4.5-5.6 lenses.
I can’t praise enough a polarizing filter which really helps to reduce glare and reflections on water, makes the colours and details in photos more vibrant and clear. It also reduces the light in camera so it’s super helpful especially during bright summer days in Mallorca. I had one on my lenses In Mallorca almost all the time because of the strong sun and brightness.
Not everyone likes to travel with a telephoto lense but I am so happy I took it this time as I managed to focus on different patterns and textures around me. With its longer focal length, a telephoto lens allowed me to zoom in on subjects that were far away, bringing them into sharp focus and filling the frame with exquisite detail. This lens opens up a whole new world of possibilities. It not only brings distant subjects closer but also compresses the perspective, creating a stunning visual impact.
I find small coastal villages really charming especially early in the morning when they're peaceful and not too busy. This was the only time I wished I had my tripod with me so I could have captured a much smoother reflection on water surface by using a longer exposure.
Sa Foradada (below) is one of the hidden gems of the Mediterranean, Northwest Coast of Mallorca and a perfect place to reach by boat. This picturesque spot is characterised by a rocky outcrop with a natural hole forming an extraordinary frame for photographers.
Another nature beauty during my boat trip I’d like to share with you (as I couldn’t resist capturing it) are layers of a landscape (rocks). It's as if each layer holds a secret, waiting to be unveiled. The foreground, bold and assertive, guides the way. Then, the middle ground weaves colors and textures into a harmonious dance. And finally, the background emerges like a dream, beckoning with an air of mystery.
5 Most Exciting Boat Photography Challenges
Taking good pictures from a boat is exciting and combines creativity with skill. Here's what I find to be the best part of this challenge:
Dynamic Stability: The constant motion of the boat adds a dynamic element to the shots. To master this challenge, a combination of steady hands, image stabilization equipment, and choosing the right moment to capture the shot is key. Using the boat's movement as a natural part of the composition could be a great way to infuse the images with a unique energy. I set up my camera with faster shutter speed somewhere around 1/800s - 1/1250s to capture as many of sharp details as possible.
Changing Light and Weather Conditions: The interplay between the sun, clouds, and water can create stunning lighting effects, but it can also be a challenge to manage. This is the moment you appreciate to know your camera settings so you can adjust them swiftly to accommodate shifting light. During the sunset, I raised ISO in my camera settings to keep the balanced exposure.
Composition Creativity: The boat itself can serve as an interesting compositional element. Experimenting with framing your subject against the boat's structure, utilizing lines and angles to guide the viewer's eye is a great way to be creative (I enjoyed seeking the landscape reflection on boats’ window).
Equipment Protection: The marine environment poses potential risks to camera gears, such as water splashes and salt exposure. I made sure I had lens hoods and lens filters with me and will definitely consider a waterproof camera cover to be able to capture those spontaneous moments without worry.
Timing and Patience: Boating photography often involves waiting for the perfect moments to unfold – be it a seagull taking flight or a wave crashing against a cliff. Patience is key, along with anticipating these moments and being ready to snap the shot at a split second's notice. I’m still working on my patience:)
In the end, the challenge of taking boat photographs is a wonderful blend of technical skills, artistic vision, and adaptability.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky transformed into a rich palette of reds, oranges, and yellows. I felt a sense of tranquility and serenity evoked by these warm hues. The soft, golden light made everything look textured and deep. Being surrounded by the warm colours and calmness felt like the perfect way to finish a day.
Taking photos from a boat along the Mallorca coast was an amazing experience and an absolute joy. Patience is key, waiting for that perfect light, and experimenting with angles adds a creative twist. Each photo becomes a time capsule, holding emotions and memories. Flipping through these pictures is like reliving the excitement and tranquility of those moments all over again.
For more images from Mallorca and my boat trip browse through my Travel Photography Collection here.
Happy boating and catchMYzoom!
Jitka
Shadows in Focus: Chasing shadows over the mountains in Mallorca
One of the most beautiful sights in Mallorca is the stunning mountain landscape. When combined with the sunrise, it creates breathtaking views; the light from the sun casts long shadows over the mountains and a very warm light.
In the world of photography, light often steals the spotlight, but there's an unsung hero — the shadow. Shadows have the power to become the main subject of a photograph, evoking a sense of mystery, emotion, and intrigue.
Moon over Andratx hills, Mallorca
To capture the stunning moments in southwest of Mallorca, I had to get up early and arrive at the location before the sunrise (around 5:30 am). Having prepared my camera bag the night before I only added water and my coffee bottle and was ready to go. It can be a bit chilly in the morning so an extra layer of clothes is handy.
What was in my camera bag?
My Nikon Z6 camera, telephoto lens Nikkor Z 100-400mm/f4.5.-5.6 and polarizing and ND filter. I almost always have my tripod with me for sunset and sunrise photography. During these magical moments, the available light is often limited, and I may need to use slower shutter speed to achieve the desired exposure and maintain image quality. Landscapes often require using smaller apertures for greater depth of field, especially when I want to capture both the foreground and distant elements in sharp focus. This means slower shutter speeds, which can lead to camera shake if handheld. By using a tripod, I stabilize my camera, ensuring that images are crisp and sharp.
Why do I like using shadows in landscape photography?
We are all hunting light for our captures but I love using shadows too. They create an interesting and dynamic element and sense of depth and drama in photos and they are often use as the main subject of a photo. They create a sense of visual separation between foreground, middle ground, and background, allowing for a more layered composition.
Contrast and Drama: Shadows in landscapes can create a striking contrast between light and dark areas. This contrast adds drama to the image, emphasizing the textures and shapes. When sunlight casts long shadows across the terrain, a whole new dimension emerges. The interplay between light and shadow brings life into even the most ordinary landscapes, creating a captivating image of contrast and textures.
Visual Interest: Shadows can introduce visual interest and intrigue into a landscape photograph. They can highlight patterns, leading lines, or intricate details within the terrain, enhancing the overall composition.
Time of Day: The quality and direction of shadows are greatly influenced by the time of day. During golden hour or the hours around sunrise and sunset, the long, soft shadows can create a warm and magical atmosphere in landscape photography, enhancing the overall beauty of the scene. This is the best time of the day!
Sense of Scale: Shadows can contribute to a sense of scale and size in landscape photography. When a prominent subject or element casts a shadow, it can provide a reference point for viewers to understand the grandeur or vastness of the surrounding landscape.
I used shadow as an important element in my pictures of Mallorca’s mountains. It was not intentional at the beginning but the more I kept shooting and moving around, the more fascinated I became by shadow and its visual scenery.
Shadow and moon over Mallorca hills
Shadow over Mallorca during sunrise
Shadow during sunrise, Mallorca
Mallorca’s sunrise
Sunrise tones, Mallorca
Light and shadow, Mallorca
I have to say it was an absolutely gorgeous morning driving around the hills and seeing Mallorca waking up into another sunny day. Sometimes photographs with perfectly blue sky without any cloud could be a bit boring and than it’s the time to look what’s around us, like shadows. Yes, I had to get up early but it was worth it! And I am an early riser anyway!
See more images from Mallorca on my Travel Photography Collections.
Find your shadow and catchMYzoom!
Jitka