We have mentioned the rule of thirds on many occasions during this series, and some have asked what this means. The rule involves you dividing your image into an imaginary 9 squares. Imagine 2 vertical and 2 horizontal lines across your viewfinder. It is similar to a grid for Xs and Os (or noughts and crosses). The main subject(s) of your image should be situated at the points where the lines intersect. This makes the layout more pleasing on the eye, and creates a better photograph. That is the rule of thirds (the screen is divided into thirds horizontally and vertically).

We now turn to the thorny subject of image editing. Many people think that editing is cheating. We have to confess that we do edit our photos. We primarily use Adobe Lightroom, and occasionally jump into Photoshop for a few tweaks. We also use OnOne software for specialist editing like conversion to black and white.

Having said that, we still are strong believers in getting the image right in camera. in editing, we make sure the photo is straight (CHECK THE HORIZON!!!), make corrections for the lens profile, add a bit of contrast, and then sharpen the image. We may then remove unwanted features (like power lines or pesky people who spoil the view) using the spot healing function, and then crop the image to the desired size.

Finally, we MAY increase the vibrance or saturation sliders depending on the light and the nature of the colours. Finally, we may add a little vignette if necessary, just to draw attention to the centre of the photo. That is generally all that we do. We may need to increase shadow areas or reduce lighter areas, but only when the lighting was too difficult to master with the correct exposure.

And that’s all folks. Get your cameras out and visit the local beauty spot. Take beautiful landscape photos and enjoy this amazing lifestyle of photography.