I haven't had much chance to use my Fujifilm GFX 50R for landscape photography. However our recent cruise along the Norwegian Fjords allowed a little time to indulge. Weather in this part of the world can be unpredictable so we didn't really see much sun even though we were in the middle of summer.
The Norwegian fjords are stunning, deep, narrow inlets of the sea, typically surrounded by steep cliffs or mountains. They are a prominent natural feature of Norway's coastline and offer breathtaking scenery, making them a popular tourist attraction for activities like cruises and hiking and photography of course.
Photographing the Norwegian fjords can be a rewarding experience due to their dramatic landscapes and beautiful scenery. Here are some of my photography tips for capturing stunning fjord photographs.
1. Golden Hours: Wherever possible shoot during the golden hours, which are the first and last hours of daylight, for soft, warm lighting that enhances the fjords' beauty.
2. Wide-angle Lens: On this trip I had the Fujifilm GF 32-64mm as my go to lens. I also took the GF100-200mm lens with me. For most scenes try to use a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the fjords and the surrounding landscapes.
3. Tripod: Always good to use a tripod .I used a lightweight tripod for shooting from the balcony on a ship. However If you can bring a sturdy tripod to ensure sharp images, especially in low light conditions.
4. Framing: Use natural elements like trees, rocks, or other objects to frame your shot and add depth to your composition.
5. Rule of Thirds: Compose your shots using the rule of thirds to create balanced and visually appealing images. A rule that can be broken of course but always a good starting point.
6. Long Exposures: Experiment with long exposure shots to capture the fjords' calm waters and create a dreamy effect. I wanted to do this but there just wasn't the right opportunity this time.
7. Weather Conditions: Be patient and open to various weather conditions; fog, mist, and changing weather can add drama to your photos. Patience is the operative word here, as like the UK you never know what conditions you will meet.
8. Perspective: Explore different angles and perspectives, including from high viewpoints or from the water, to capture unique images.
9. Post-Processing: Use photo editing software to enhance colors, contrast, and overall image quality. I have used Lightroom for all of these images but there are many alternatives available now.
10. Respect Nature: Lastly, respect the environment and local regulations while taking photographs in these beautiful natural settings.
Remember, the Norwegian fjords offer endless opportunities for stunning photography, so be creative and enjoy the process of capturing their beauty.
