Nature photography tip: Watch the direction of the sun on arrival
Tuesday 19 August 2025, 16:08 by Rob Dijkstra | 2,351 views | 0 commentsThis article was translated from Dutch with the help of AI. Read the original.
When entering a nature reserve, it is worth paying attention to the position of the sun. Backlighting often provides the most beautiful, atmospheric light, especially when there is moisture in the air. It can be challenging to photograph because of the strong contrasts, but the reward is great.
That is why, if possible, you should park on the west side of an area, so that the rising sun is on the opposite side. The PhotoTime app is a great help during your preparation.
Is backlighting not an option? Then make sure the sun shines sideways across the landscape. This so-called sidelight emphasises structures and adds dynamism. On sunny autumn days, it can even create beautiful sunbeams (Godbeams). But if you approach the forest from the wrong angle, you will miss this effect completely.
A small adjustment to your route can make a world of difference to your photos!
About the author
Rob Dijkstra is fotograaf, freelancer voor onder andere Zoom, Sony en Adobe. Rob is specialist op het gebied van filmen met de DSLR en systeemcamera. Zijn passie voor de Nederlandse natuur deelt hij door foto-excursies.
You might also like
-
Nature photography tip: Plan your sunrise photos carefullyby Rob Dijkstra
-
Don't Turn a Sunset into a Night Photoby Nando Harmsen
-
Nature photography tip: Prepare for cold and sun at altitudeby Rob Dijkstra
-
A few tips for photographing in the snowby Nando Harmsen
-
Nature photography tip: Protect your camera from overheatingby Rob Dijkstra
-
10 tips for photographing with a vintage lensby Nando Harmsen
Show every article in Nature photography
0 comments
There are no comments on this article yet.
Be the first to share what you think!
Be the first to share what you think!
Have your say
Please note: Articles older than a week can only be commented on by signed-in visitors.Would you still like to comment? sign in or create a free account.
Elja Trum
Photofacts; everything to do with photography!
Would you like to take better photos and keep up with what is happening in photography? Photofacts publishes articles that teach you something about photography — from a product announcement to a practical shooting tip or a look at a website. Photofacts covers photography every day and is a hobby project of Elja Trum's that got out of hand. The articles are written by a team of volunteer authors. If you would enjoy writing one or more articles for Photofacts, do get in touch.More about PhotofactsPhotofacts is made possible in part by
