Let's talk about the joys and frustrations of being a landscape photographer in the summertime. Ah, summer, with its sunny skies, lush greenery, and the promise of beautiful landscapes. It's a season that holds immense potential for breathtaking captures. But, let's be real, it can also be frustrating.
As we delve into the heart of summer, we encounter some challenges that put our patience to the test. The harsh light of midday casts strong shadows, washing out the colors we long to capture. Popular tourist spots become bustling hives of activity, making it challenging to find those peaceful moments in nature.
I’m not afraid to admit I struggle with my landscape photography this time of year, and often go months without taking a shot I’m proud of. But, I recently discovered a game-changing solution during a trip to the city of Venice.
Let me set the scene: Venice, the floating city of romance, enchantment, and picturesque canals. It's a place that draws visitors from around the world, especially during the summer months. As a landscape photographer, capturing the essence of Venice amidst the crowded streets and tourist hotspots seemed like an insurmountable task.
But then, one glorious morning, armed with a strong cup of coffee and a sense of adventure, I decided to set my alarm for an ungodly hour. I wanted to witness the magic that unfolds during the early morning hours when the city is still quiet and enveloped in a sense of serenity. And boy, was it worth it!
As the sky started to lighten, I found myself standing on the edge of the Venetian Lagoon, eagerly awaiting the golden sun to make its appearance. The stillness of the morning, coupled with the soft hues of the sunrise, painted a breathtaking canvas before my eyes. The Venetian Lagoon shimmered with tranquility, mirroring the beauty of the sky above.
The streets of Venice, which are usually packed with tourists during the day, were deserted and peaceful. St. Mark's Square, the bustling heart of the city, stood before me, empty. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as I walked through its expanse, surrounded by architectural wonders and the beauty of a city just waking up. At most times of year, the crowds would already be starting to appear by now, but not in Summer, not at 5am.
As I strolled along the quiet canals, the gondolas sat silently, waiting patiently for the first passengers of the day. The still waters mirrored the buildings, as the early morning sun-bathed the tops of the scenes in warm, golden hour light. It was a moment frozen in time, an intimate encounter with Venice in its purest form.
Embracing the early summer sunrises in Venice opened my eyes to a whole new world of possibilities. It showed me that the best moments often happen when the city is still asleep, and the beauty can be captured without distractions. It's a time when you can truly connect with the soul of the place, when the light is soft, and the atmosphere is filled with a sense of mystery.
All the other seasons offer excitement for me as a landscape photographer - Autumn has it’s golden leaves, winter has it’s snow and frost and spring has it’s bluebells and blossom. Now summer has it’s secret – deserted and magical cities. So set that alarm, grab your camera, and embrace the earliest of sunrises.
