Since its inception, there has been debate about whether or not
photography qualifi es as art. It is a debate that continues to this
day. Those who reject its status as art do so on the basis that it is representational and relies on technology. However, if we accept the above dictionary defi nition, it clearly meets many of the criteria: it is a visual medium through which people express their creativity; there is skill involved in the process of its creation; viewers appreciate its beauty, and done well, it is capable of evoking powerful emotional responses. Skill is involved on two levels: in controlling the equipment necessary to make photographs and in creating powerful compositions. In our fi rst book on landscape photography, The Landscape Photography Workshop, we took an overview of the topic, covering everything from choosing equipment, the specifi c techniques you need to master in order to create a technically sound landscape photograph, and the basics of composition, through to producing a digital print. In this book we assume a basic familiarity with the technical elements and focus much more deeply on aesthetics on the art of landscape photography. This is not to say that we are ignoring equipment and technique, but it is discussed mostly with regard to how it impacts upon composition. Of course, teaching and learning the technical aspects of photography is relatively straightforward compared to teaching and learning the creative side. Creativity is intensely personal, and because it depends on what the individual wishes to express, arguably it cannot be taught. That said, art has been practised and analysed for centuries, so there are many widely accepted theories on which elements work in a composition, which dont, and what innately appeals to the human sense of beauty. In this book we will examine the theory and practice of these principles, using our own images to illustrate the points. However, simply following established compositional guidelines isnt enough to guarantee good results. Done without consideration it can produce images that are predictable, sterile and (ironically) lacking in creativity. Once you have understood the theories of composition you should be able to use them as a framework for your own creative expression, so that composition ultimately becomes an unconscious, instinctive, but considered process. To be truly creative, an artist needs to establish a recognisable personal style. This can be a long and challenging process, and while no one else can do it for you, we have tried to give some pointers to help you on your way. Establishing a personal style is not the end of the journey, however, as your photography and style should evolve and change over time. We hope that this book will provide the