Types of Landscape Photography
On this page I have listed three types of landscape photography - representational, impressionistic and abstract - and included some commentary regarding the type of equipment and techniques used. The article is based on my own knowledge and experience which has been gained over the years by following my instinct and by keeping it simple. It is very simple stuff and even if you don't strictly agree with it I hope it offers some food for thought
There are no hard and rigid rules in landscape photography but there are some conventions which most photographers adhere to. Landscape Photography is usually associated with scenes depicting the rural landscape but it can also include urban landscapes, called Cityscapes, depicting man made structures which offer opportunities for modern looking graphical images consisting of bold lines and strong colours
Other relevant classifications include Skyscapes and Seascapes where there is usually, but not always, a degree of overlap with landscapes as a Skyscape or Seascape without land would be quite dull. Unless of course the Sea or the Sky had some peculiar or striking quality which made it stand out as a successful image in it's own right
Representational Landscape Photography
Straight landscape photographs with an emphasis on realism and fine detail.
No gimmicks or fancy effects are employed - just a truthful representation of the scene.
Much attention is paid to framing and composition.
Results depend on the season, time of day, weather and quality of light.
For detailed landscapes you might want to use high quality lenses and a tripod.
Impressionistic Landscape Photography
Impressionism is about the transient effects of light with an emphasis on visual effects rather than detail.
The light and it's effect on our senses is what we are attempting to capture - mood and atmosphere.
We are creating a snapshot of a larger reality and this stimulates our imagination.
Close attention is paid to reflections and the interplay of colours.
Impressionistic Landscape Photography does not need high quality lenses and equipment and great results can be achieved using almost any type of camera. The important tools are your imagination and your imaging editor
Abstract Landscape Photography
Parts of the landscape are singled out for non-representational treatment and the subject matter is not immediately obvious. In the image below it first looks like you are looking at the sky until you rake a closer look. It is in fact water. Abstract landscapes can appeal to our emotions and speak to us on a subconscious or spiritual level. Contrasting colours, tones, lines and shapes are elements commonly used to create abstract art
Links
Impressionism - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Impressionism
Abstract Art - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abstract_art
Abstract Art: An Introduction - http://painting.about.com/od/abstractart/a/abstract_art.htm