You’re out shooting, and you see some dramatic clouds for your landscape photograph.

However, when you get home and study the photograph, the clouds are weak and non-
existent.

This is a very common problem in landscape photography.

The reason that this occurs is that the contrast range from exposing for the Earth, versus
exposing for the sky, is too great for the camera to record.

What you must do is reduce the contrast range.

There are a number of ways to accomplish this.

Today, we will focus on an in-camera technique known as graduated filters.

Quick Tip

Graduated filters come in a variety of offerings. They can be round, square, or rectangular.
They can be neutral density (ND) or have a colored effect.

For the purposes of enhancing clouds, you want to start with a graduated neutral density
(ND) filter in your camera bag.

Graduated filters need an experienced photographer. You must discover how to work with
them and get wonderful results.

Graduated filters come in various gradations and densities.

If you’re new to graduated ND filters, choose a .45 or .6 ND Medium transition filter to start
with (or something close to that).

Rectangular and square filters are easier to work with than round. The disadvantage to the
rectangular or square system is that you must buy a holder. However, it’s a better long
term investment.

Some thoughts on the use of graduated ND filters…

• If you use it on a wide angle lens, keep the aperture wide (low f/stop number);
otherwise, the transition line might become apparent due to the depth of field.
• When positioning the filter, the ND portion should be on the sky. The transition to
clear glass should be right at the horizon to the Earth. The landscape portion should
be clear glass.
• Resist using a smaller aperture (high f/stop number). Never use an f/stop number
higher than f/11.
You will find graduated ND filters in a wide variety of pricing.

You do not need the most expensive one to begin with. Try a budget model. Learn to work
with it. See if you like it, and then research the right filter for your long term investment.

If you’d like to learn exactly how to make your landscape photographs shine this weekend.
Go here to check out our premium guide “Complete Landscape Photography” now
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