What is composition?

Composition is where lines, tone or color are put on a piece of paper, canvas or photograph. Putting something in the center is strong, calm, solid, still, stable or boring …

Subject

What is your subject?  This should be obvious to the viewer. Choose the best example of your subject whether it is the most attractive garden viewpoint or the most attractive …

Framing

In garden photography the sky is often eliminated. Also, do not include too much of an uninteresting ground, gravel path or grass lawn. Make each inch of photo real-estate count. …

Planning and Spontaneity

I tend to plan for and shoot garden scenes early in my photo session and end with the detail shots. I may create a story around a garden feature or …

Lighting and Time of Day

Photography is about timing within the actual shot (exposure) and the time the shot is taken. Timing and light are key. For me nothing is better than morning light on …

Include Plant and Garden Names

Take a picture of the plant name or label if there is one available. A correctly labeled garden picture is worth more than a generic “pink flower”.  Also make a …

Camera Settings

My settings for different conditions and kinds of pictures are listed under the photos.  Generally, any shutter speed longer than 1/50 of a second, needs a tripod to prevent unintended …

The Marlene Dietrich Method

A background in art and knowledge of the work of the great photographers is helpful because art uses a common visual language. It helps to know how great artists use …