Landscape – ExpertPhotography

Best Free HDR Software in 2024 (HDR Photography)

Christopher Bryan-Smith — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 15:19:12 +0000

Using the best free HDR software allows you to create stunning composite images without having to buy expensive software suites.

High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography is a brilliant technique for capturing landscapes with uneven lighting. Creating a HDR image is fairly simple, but you need the software to be able to do it properly. That’s why we’ve listed all the best free HDR software in this article.

We start the article by looking at the best free HDR software options. These are perfect is you’re just getting started with HDR photography. But free software if often limited, which is why we have some paid software recommendations in the second part of the article.

Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, you’ll be able to find the best HDR software in this post.

What is the Best Free HDR Software?

The best free HDR software allows you to create fantastic high dynamic range images without spending money on software.

To create a HDR image, you need to combine several exposures of the same image. By taking two, three, or more images of the same scene with different exposure values, you can blend them together using software to create an image with a super-high dynamic range.

The HDR technique gives you incredible detail, bringing out every line and feature from areas that would otherwise be blown out or overexposed.

This might sound complicated, but it’s actually fairly simple once you have the right software. All the free HDR software we look at in this article are simple and easy to use.

However, the free software options are limited and the results can be mixed. That’s why we’ve included some of the best HDR software you can purchase.

5 Best Free HDR Software

1. Fotor HDR Photo Editor

Brand	Brand Fotor
Operating System	Operating System macOS and Windows
Completely Free	Completely Free Yes
Key Features	Key Features brightness, contrast and saturation adjustment tools, simple interface

The Fotor HDR Photo Editor is the best free software for creating high dynamic range images. You don’t even need to download or install the software. You can use it through your web browser, simply uploading images from your hard drive.

Uploading and merging your images couldn’t be easier. Once the HDR tool is open in your browser, upload three or more images into the image boxes in the interface. Then click “start” to merge the images together.

When you have your merged image, you can make minor edits to improve the final picture. You have structure, soft, and intense pre-set effects. These filters have been specifically designed for HDR images, giving you more intensity and detail.

The free program also has several adjustment tools, allowing you to change brightness, saturation, and sharpness.

Fotor has a free plan for its basic software package. It includes basic editing and design features, but other than that, it is fairly limited. If you need more from your editing software, you can upgrade to one of their fairly priced paid plans.

But if you only want to use the HDR feature, the Fotor HDR Editing Tool is your best option.

2. Luminance HDR

Brand	Brand Luminance HDR
Operating System	Operating System macOS, Windows, and Linux
Completely Free	Completely Free Yes
Key Features	Key Features RAW file support, Batch HDR merging, color management workflow

For a long time, Luminance HDR was the go-to program if you wanted a free HDR editor. It’s still a fantastic piece of single-purpose software. But the fact that they only update it every few years keeps it off the top spot.

Luminance HDR is an intuitive program with an easy-to-use interface. The most recent 2021 edition features many useful tools to bring out the best in your HDR photography.

Developers upgraded the HDR solution with new features like automatic anti-ghosting, FITS support integration with Windows taskbar, improved 1/10 with TIPF 32 bit and redesigned merge algorithms.

Some new sliders have been implemented too, such as ‘Gamma’ and ‘Saturation’. You also have a command line interface and a color management workflow for even more creative control.

Luminance HDR reads both JPEG and RAW files. A key benefit to Luminance HDR is the ease at which you can export photographs to additional photo editing software, such as GIMP (a free alternative to Photoshop).

3. Picturenaut

Brand	Brand HDRLabs
Operating System	Operating System Windows
Completely Free	Completely Free Yes
Key Features	Key Features RAW file support, fast processing, real-time previews

Picturenaut is another free HDR software tool. Picturenaut is by HDRLabs, a project established to create free software for various processes.

Picturenaut is a very light software program. It’s easy to install and even easier to use. Touted as one of the best free HDR software solutions out there, Picturenaut is just as intuitive as Luminance but functions a little bit differently.

The program has a drag-and-drop feature and supports both PNG and RAW files. The tool also includes Alpha channel view, auto-cropping, and is one of the fastest at tone mapping.

Picturenaut has been known to crash if you work too fast with large RAW files. It can only handle so much at one time, so take your time and allow the program to do its thing.

The open-source API is also publicly available for programmers interested in tweaking the program for even better results. This German program is ever-changing with new intelligence added every day.

4. HDRTools

Brand	Brand HDRTools
Operating System	Operating System macOS and Windows
Completely Free	Completely Free Yes
Key Features	Key Features Simple interface, RAW file support, basic adjustment tool set

FDRTools is a free HDR software tool for those looking to create a more realistic look to a high dynamic range image. There is a free basic version and a more advanced shareware version.

The program is not as advanced as the other software on this list. But it’s an excellent choice for a beginner who doesn’t want a complicated interface or too many editing tools that might be confusing.

A big difference between FDRTools and other HDR software is its goal to bridge the gap between merging and tone mapping. The FDRTools tone mapping algorithm is very advanced in comparison to other programs.

The user has full control over the merging process by looking at the tone mapped image. They can then edit the merging of source images in real-time. Users can choose to include or not include a particular source image or adjust the opacity of individual images.

FDRTools has noteworthy customer service and is constantly updating its features.

5. EasyHDR

Brand	Brand EasyHDR
Operating System	Operating System macOS and Windows
Completely Free	Completely Free Yes
Key Features	Key Features RAW file support, batch merging, brush tools, color management

EasyHDR is just as its name suggests – easy. It is available both as a standalone program and as a plugin for Lightroom. The free version does not expire, but it does watermark your images.

The software may be easy to use, but it is powerful.

Drag and drop RAW or JPEG images into the program and use the presets to get started. Then adjust the tone mapping tools to get a realistic effect. Much of the interface looks similar to Lightroom and Photoshop, making tools easy to find and use.

There’s even a clone brush to take out errant dust spots. The software also includes basic layers for masking and color correction.

EasyHDR allows for batch editing, which automatically identifies the HDR sequences. This is great for photographers who do a lot of HDR conversions.

IMAGE

Best Paid HDR Software

These are our top recommendations for HDR software if you have the budget to pay for a more complete editing program.

The free software are great if you’re just getting started with HDR editing. But if you already have experience, or you want a more complete editing package, it’s worth investing in a paid editing software.

You’ll be able to do more advanced HDR editing, and you can do other types of image processing.

1. Lightroom

Brand	Brand Adobe
Operating System	Operating System macOS and Windows
Payment Type	Payment Type Subscription
Key Features	Key Features Wide ranging tool set, RAW file support, HDR presets

Adobe Lightroom tops most lists relating to photo editing software. Whether adjusting exposure or creating HDR images, it’s the best software in town. The problem is, software of this standard doesn’t come for free.

Despite the incredibly wide range of tools in Lightroom, creating HDR images is surprisingly simple. Upload your images into the program, highlight all of them, then right click. From the menu, select Merge, then HDR. That’s it.

Lightroom is one of the most complete software suites for photo editing. You can make minor adjustments to contrast, exposure, brightness, or pretty much any aspect of you image. But you can also make sweeping changes, adding presets or batch editing images.

Adobe has now introduced a number of AI tools to streamline the editing process. AI tools can add a bokeh effect or remove unwanted items within an image. Adobe is not alone in using AI to help photographers edit their photos, but these tools are state-of-the-art.

There is a 7-day free trial with a Lightroom, Photography, or Creative Cloud subscription. But once the seven days are up, you’ll have to pay monthly to keep the subscription.

2. Luminar Neo

Brand	Brand Luminar
Operating System	Operating System macOS and Windows
Payment Type	Payment Type Subscription or one-time purchase
Key Features	Key Features AI features, presets and custom presets, sky replacement and background removal tools

Skylum’s Luminar Neo is one of the leading photo editing software when it comes to AI editing. It was one of the first to integrate AI into its tool set. Now, Neo has become one of the most popular programs for photographers.

Luminar Neo is also one of the best HDR merging and editing programs. The initial merge could not be easier, as you simply drag the images you want to merge into the HDR Merge command box on the right-hand side of the interface.

Once merged, you can edit and tweak your final HDR image to get it the way you want. The toolset isn’t quite as wide-ranging as that of Lightroom. But you still have plenty of creative control.

Neo also has a HDR effect. This helps you achieve the intense HDR look without having to merge several images with different exposures. The results are not quite as good as a true HDR merge, but it’s a great shortcut if you want the HDR look.

Other useful tools include the AI sky replacement and AI background removal features. Replacing a sky or removing a background used to be a painstaking process. But Luminar Neo has turned them into two-click operations.

Skylum offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, but there’s no free trial. You also have the option of a 12-month subscription or a one-off lifetime perpetual license. Both are reasonably priced.

Read our full Luminar Neo review in this link.

3. DxO Nik HDR Efex

Brand	Brand DxO
Operating System	Operating System macOS and Windows
Payment Type	Payment Type one-time purchase
Key Features	Key Features Specialist HDR software, local adjustments, single-image HDR effect

The Nik HDR Efex software is a plugin for the full DxO PhotoLab program. Like Luminar Neo, it’s not as popular as Lightroom. But this is the perfect program if you’re dedicated to HDR photography.

This software makes it easy to merge multiple images for the best HDR effect. You can combine as many exposures as you need, and the software does most of the heavy lifting for you.

Once merged, you have an excellent array of adjustment tools to help you achieve the perfect final image. You can adjust exposure, saturation, contrast, and even feathering.

This software also allows you to add the HDR effect to single images. That means you don’t need three or five images merged into one to create an image with a high dynamic range. Getting a true HDR effect with one image is quick and simple.

As a plugin, you already need to have a software suite for Nik HDR Efex to plug into. It’s compatible with DxO PhotoLab, as well as Lightroom Classic and Photoshop. It’s a great additional software if you’re serious about HDR photography.

Conclusion: Best Free HDR Software

Creating powerful HDR images isn’t difficult if you have the right software. And thanks to these free HDR software options, you can have fun with HDR photography without spending a penny.

Programs like Fotor HDR Photo Editor and Luminance HDR help you create stunning images for free. Whether you’re shooting landscapes or real estate, you have the software to help you get started with HDR.

But Free software is often limited. And if you want to take your photo editing and HDR merging to the next level, you will have to upgrade to paid software. That’s when you need to look to Lightroom or Luminar Neo.

10 Best Photo Stitching Software in 2024 (Updated)

Nick Constant — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:06:25 +0000

Photo stitching software is essential for landscape and panorama photographers. Instead of stitching photos together yourself, there is a wide range of digital editing software to help us. With the continued advancements of digital editing software, photo stitching could not be easier.

This article will cover all the best photo stitching software on the market today. We will look at different approaches and extra features that may come with some software. By the end, you will know which photo stitching software is perfect for you.

What is Photo Stitching?

Photo Stitching is a method for extending an image beyond the constraint of a single image. This means we can use photo stitching software to create an image that a camera cannot capture.

To create a photo stitch, we must take various photos while out on location. It helps if these photos are taken on a tripod, but most photo stitching software is good enough that we don’t have to.

The most common use for photo stitching software is to create a panorama. Panoramas are a brilliant way to show off a dramatic landscape without using a super wide-angle lens. You will take multiple images as you rotate around a landscape. You can even make a 360-degree panorama.

Once you have your images, you will want to upload them to the computer and use one of the photo stitching software we mention below. Read through each option to see what best suits your workflow. There are options for high levels of control and options for a quick and easy approach.

Best Photo Stitching Software

1. Lightroom

Brand	Brand Adobe
Price	Price Subscription Based
Edit Control Points?	Edit Control Points? No
Projection Options	Projection Options Spherical, Cylindrical, Perspective
Best For	Best For Quick and easy photo stitching with great results

Adobe Lightroom is the best photo stitching software. This is not just because of its great results but also because of its speed, customization, and exporting abilities.

Adobe Lightroom comes in two versions: Lightroom and Lightroom Classic. Both versions give you the same amount of control over your customization. The main advantage of using Lightroom is that you will likely upload your images to this platform for the organization. So, performing your photo stitching here is convenient.

Adobe Lightroom’s photo stitching is found in its Photo Merge section. To use it, select your photos to be stitched together and right-click to select Photo Merge. This section has Panorama, HDR, and HDR Panorama abilities.

Lightroom allows you to select the type of stitching you want to use in a panorama. You can select between Spherical, Cylindrical, and Perspective. The Boundary Warp feature is great. It lets you choose how much blank space you want around your image. The blank space allows you to see every detail of the photograph. To keep every detail, click Fill Edges to fill the blank space with Generative Fill. This option isn’t great for big white spaces.

Adobe Lightroom offers plenty of customization. You can even export the panorama by stacking all the photos you used. This is helpful for clearing up your workspace and ensuring you don’t use the same images for another panorama.

2. PTGui

Brand	Brand New House Internet Services BV
Price	Price One-time Purchase
Edit Control Points?	Edit Control Points? Yes
Projection Options	Projection Options 16+ Different Options
Best For	Best For Professional photo stitching

PTGui is the best photo stitching software for professionals. It is a photo editing software dedicated to creating panoramas. Therefore, there is a huge range of professional options through which to edit your panoramas.

I can’t even list all the projection options as it would take up so much space. You have 16 different projections to choose from. These projections dramatically change how you view your panorama. Some of these options drop you directly into the landscape, whereas others project the panorama onto a flat surface.

There is a learning curve to overcome in this software. As you are performing expert controls, it will take some time to work out how to get the best results. Luckily, PTGui provides videos that go over every step, from taking the best photos to editing your panoramas.

PTGui allows you to customize every part of your panorama. You can edit the panorama as a whole and the individual images. This is perfect for those who need expert-level control over their scenes.

Overall, PTGui is the software you should use if you want to take panoramas seriously. If you are happy with normal results and don’t need to fine-tune everything, then other photo stitching software will be fine.

3. Luminar Neo

Brand	Brand Skylum
Price	Price Subscriptions Based/ One-time Purchase
Edit Control Points?	Edit Control Points? No
Projection Options	Projection Options Cylindrical, Spherical, Mercator, Plane, Fisheye
Best For	Best For Easy photo stitching with great customization options

Luminar Neo is an excellent photo stitching software because it offers some excellent customization options. It does this in an approachable way and lets you fine-tune your panorama’s appearance to a good degree.

Luminar Neo is Skylum software that provides a wide range of cutting-edge controls. It has embraced the use of AI adjustments in photography and continues to experiment with technological advancements.

Luminar Neo provides both panorama and HDR photo stitching tools. All you have to do is drag your images into the relevant section. Within a few seconds, you will see a new interface that shows your panorama inside a space divided into four sections.

The panorama editing process is very hands-on. It allows you to edit your panorama to a fine degree, moving it around the projection it has stitched in. You can swap between Cylindrical, Spherical, Mercator, Plane, and Fisheye projections.

Each of these projections will give you vastly different panorama results. That means you can stitch panoramas for a number of different outputs, not just a flat surface. This makes Luminar Neo a great option for photo stitching software.

4. Hugin

Brand	Brand Hugin
Price	Price Free
Edit Control Points?	Edit Control Points? Yes
Projection Options	Projection Options 15 Different Options
Best For	Best For Free professional photo stitching

Hugin is a free, dedicated photo stitching software for panoramas. Thanks to its attention to detail and fine-tuning abilities, experienced panorama photographers highly recommend it.

Hugin does take a while to get familiar with. It is not easy software for photographers who are not computer literate to pick up. So, if you want to avoid learning a new process, I suggest other options.

For photographers who are looking for extra control, this may be the program for you. If you have previous experience with photo editing software, it may take you only a little while to pick up these new skills. It is ideal for photographers frustrated with the lack of control in other photo stitching software.

The program does take some time to generate results. It may be the slowest photo stitching software on this list. But this is the price we have to pay for extra care and control. Again, if you want easy and quick photo stitching software, look at the options that aren’t dedicated photo stitching programs.

5. PanoramaStudio

Brand	Brand Tshsoft
Price	Price Free
Edit Control Points?	Edit Control Points? Yes
Projection Options	Projection Options Cylindrical
Best For	Best For Easier professional photo stitching

PanoramaStudio is another dedicated photo stitching software for panoramas. It provides a professional workspace to fine-tune your panoramas. It is available for both Windows and Mac and comes in a Standard or Pro version.

PanoramaStudio automatically stitches images together in its positioning and regarding exposure mismatches, brightness, and vignetting. It also offers expert levels of control, allowing you to choose and edit the control points for each panorama. This means that you can choose how the images overlap.

PanoramaStudio can automatically correct lens distortion before stitching, thanks to its Exif data recognition. This allows for a smoother panorama that will give natural results. You will also find normal adjustment tools like exposure adjustment and the ability to insert graphics such as watermarks.

If you are looking for dedicated photo stitching software that isn’t overly complicated, PanoramaStudio is worth a try. Both the Standard and Pro versions feature a free trial, so you can test whether this is the one for you before buying.

6. Photoshop

Brand	Brand Adobe
Price	Price Subscription Based
Edit Control Points?	Edit Control Points? Yes
Projection Options	Projection Options Auto, Perspective, Cylindrical, Spherical, Collage
Best For	Best For Customization in detail with added photo editing

Adobe Photoshop is another photo stitching software you can use to automatically create panoramas. This process does feel dated nowadays, especially when there are so many great options like the software above.

After finding Photomerge under File in Photoshop, you must select your images through this interface. This interface doesn’t give you a preview of what your output could be. So it is hard to grasp the output of the Auto, Perspective, Cylindrical, Spherical, Collage, and Reposition options.

In addition, Photoshop takes a bit longer than other programs to perform the stitching. This isn’t a huge issue, but if you want to try out all the projection options, then this may take some time.

The biggest advantage of using Photoshop is that it creates a layer for each section of the panorama. Each layer also comes with a layer mask. That means that editing the image in different sections or collectively is extremely easy.

Adobe Photoshop is for those who want to do extensive editing on their panoramas. If you want an easy and quick construction, I suggest trying different programs.

7. Capture One

Brand	Brand Axcel
Price	Price Subscription Based
Edit Control Points?	Edit Control Points? No
Projection Options	Projection Options Spherical, Cylindrical, Perspective, Panini
Best For	Best For Simple photo stitching options

Capture One is digital editing software used by professionals. It organizes photos and has incredible tethering and color editing abilities. You can also perform photo stitching inside this program, but it is fairly basic.

Select your photos and right-click to find Panorama Stitch. You will then see a new interface that allows you to customize your panorama. You can choose between the Spherical, Cylindrical, Perspective, and Panini projections.

There aren’t any other ways to edit your panorama besides these customizations. You do get an option to adjust the output size, but this doesn’t affect your aesthetic.

The photo stitching results are good and don’t take too long. This option is best for those who use Capture One to edit their photos normally. It will save you from downloading another program. But if you want more control, you should look at other options.

8. PhotoDirector 365

Brand	Brand Cyberlink
Price	Price Subscriptions Based/ One-time Purchase
Edit Control Points?	Edit Control Points? No
Projection Options	Projection Options Spherical
Best For	Best For Photo stitching software with plenty of other actions

PhotoDirector 365 is a digital editing software packed with features. These range from basic edits to AI generation and shaping tools. So, of course, this software can create a panorama for us.

There are so many features, so finding the photo stitch section can be tricky. Upon finding the panorama section, the process is very straightforward. You upload your images, it stitches them in a single, customizable way, and then you can choose crop options.

The results were good for such a simple process. More customization is best for those who want to take panoramas seriously. But if you want to experiment with everything related to photo editing, then PhotoDirector 365 is worth a look.

9. Affinity Photo

Brand	Brand Serif
Price	Price One-time Purchase
Edit Control Points?	Edit Control Points? No
Projection Options	Projection Options Spherical
Best For	Best For Cheaper Photoshop option

Affinity Photo is a cheaper option than Adobe Photoshop for those who don’t want to pay for a subscription-based service. It is a great alternative to Photoshop and provides many similar controls and adjustments to your images.

If we look at its photo stitching abilities, we can see they are fairly basic. There is no option to choose between different perspective projections. It uses a Spherical projection, and that is it. But this is the option you will likely use for photographic panoramas anyway, so it’s not a huge issue.

After creating the panorama, you can see it stitched together in front of you. It does a good job of stitching the image together and produces a good result. However, the lack of customisation means that it places low down on this list.

10. ON1 Photo RAW

Brand	Brand ON1
Price	Price Subscriptions Based/ One-time Purchase
Edit Control Points?	Edit Control Points? No
Projection Options	Projection Options Auto, Spherical, Collage
Best For	Best For Photographers who want AI editing software

ON1 Photo RAW is another photo organization software that also includes photo stitching abilities. It doesn’t try to do basic adjustments better than the top software. Rather, it aims to usher in new processes that allow you to easily perform complex edits.

There are a few options to customize your panorama. For the photo stitching, you can select Auto, Spherical, or Collage. You can also edit how the image is cropped between None, Crop, and Warp To Fill.

The result could have been better. It didn’t stitch the panorama as accurately as other photo stitching software, and it also took a while to process. So, with these elements put together, I would suggest looking at other photo stitching software. However, this could be a good option if you like ON1 Photo RAW’s other features.

Conclusion: Best Photo Stitching Software

After looking at this wide range of photo stitching software, we can see there are a number of different approaches to producing panoramas. So, to find the best software for you, decide if you want more control or just to stitch your panorama together quickly.

Sacrificing control doesn’t mean you will get bad results. Many hands-off photo stitching software approaches produce incredible results, and these approaches even have multiple options to choose from. This is why Adobe Lightroom takes our top spot as the best photo stitching software.

Landscape Photography Gear: A Complete Guide

Trevor Marshall — Fri, 10 May 2024 17:25:36 +0000

You can start landscape photography with nothing more than your camera or phone. But it probably won’t be long before you want more. A better camera, or a different lens. A tripod and some folders, and of course, a bag to carry them in! We’ve put together a collection of some great advice on choosing the best gear or landscape photography.

Landscape Photography Gear

As we have said, you can take spectacular landscape photos with the simplest gear. But there are certain things that will help you improve no end, so we have put together some advice to help you make those choices.

Camera and Lenses

Starting with a camera and lenses to go with it. It doesn’t have to be the fanciest of cameras, but there are certain features that will help you to become a more effective landscape photographer.

Affordable Cameras

The best affordable camera for landscape photography should have a decent sensor that meets the demands of the genre. Many guides say only high-resolution cameras are good enough, directing you to expensive options. But there are quality cameras that won’t break the bank.

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is our top pick. It produces excellent images with helpful features for beginners at a great price. The 24.1 MP sensor delivers impressive colors and dynamic range. The wide ISO range of 100-12,800 gives flexibility in various lighting conditions.

Finding the best camera for landscape photography on a budget is possible. The cameras on this list prove you can capture stunning landscapes without spending a fortune.

Best Landscape Cameras

When choosing a camera for landscape photography, image quality is key. Look for a high-resolution sensor that captures sharp details and vibrant colors. A wide dynamic range helps maintain detail in both bright and dark areas of the scene.

The best landscape cameras have a good ISO range, allowing you to shoot in low light without losing image quality. Weather sealing is also important, as it protects your camera from the elements when shooting outdoors.

Other useful features include a live-view display for easy composition and good battery life for extended shooting sessions. If you want to capture stunning landscape photos, the Nikon D850 is an excellent choice. Its 45.7 MP full-frame sensor produces exceptional images with a wide dynamic range. To learn more about the best camera for landscape photography, check out our in-depth guide.

Lenses

The best lenses for landscape photography offer a wide focal range, sharp image quality, and sturdy build. Wide-angle lenses like the Tamron 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 and Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM are popular choices. They capture expansive scenes with ease.

The Sony FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM is a top performer for Sony mirrorless cameras. It boasts excellent sharpness from edge to edge and fast autofocus. For Nikon users, the AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR is a reliable option with great image stabilization.

Zoom lenses like the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM provide versatility for landscape shots. Prime lenses such as the Sony FE 14mm f/1.8 GM offer superior low-light performance and sharpness. Lenses for landscape photography come in many varieties to suit your needs and budget.

Filters and Accessories

Perhaps one of the best cost-to-improvement ratios in photography is having the right filters for landscape work. They can really lift the images you take, for relatively little outlay.

Choosing Filters

Filters are important tools for landscape photographers. They help improve the quality of natural light in a scene. The most common filters for landscapes are graduated neutral density (GND) filters, neutral density (ND) filters, and circular polarizers (CPL).

GND filters balance the exposure between a bright sky and dark foreground. ND filters reduce the amount of light hitting the sensor, allowing for longer exposures. CPL filters eliminate reflections from water and saturate colors.

Infrared (IR) and light pollution reduction (LPR) filters are also useful for specific situations. Filters for landscape photography are a great way to take your images to the next level.

Neutral Density Filters

Neutral density filters reduce the amount of light entering your camera lens. This allows you to use slower shutter speeds or wider apertures in bright conditions. ND filters are essential for creating long exposure effects like silky smooth water or blurred clouds.

The best ND filters use high-quality glass that maintains sharpness and color accuracy. They come in different densities, from 1 to 10 stops or more. Variable ND filters let you adjust the density by rotating the filter.

When choosing an ND filter, consider the size that fits your lens and whether you prefer a circular screw-on or square filter system. Investing in a good quality ND filter will help you achieve stunning long exposure effects in your neutral density filter photography.

Graduated Neutral Density Filters

A graduated ND filter is a must-have for landscape photographers. It balances exposures across the scene, eliminating blown-out skies or dingy foregrounds. The best graduated ND filters maintain excellent image quality while evening out the light.

The K&F Concept Soft Graduated Neutral Density Filter is our top pick. It has fantastic optical quality and comes in many sizes to fit different lenses. The filter has an ND factor of 8 for a three-stop difference between the filtered and unfiltered sections.

Graduated ND filters are an important tool for capturing stunning landscape photos. They help you take perfectly exposed images in challenging lighting conditions. With the right graduated ND filter, you can take your landscape photography to the next level.

Variable Neutral Density Filters

A variable ND filter is a must-have accessory for landscape photographers. It reduces the amount of light entering your lens, giving you more control over your exposure settings. This is especially useful when shooting in bright sunlight.

With a variable ND filter, you can use slower shutter speeds to capture motion blur in water or clouds. You can also use wider apertures for a shallower depth of field, making your subject stand out from the background. The best variable ND filters offer a wide range of density settings, typically from ND2 to ND400 or higher.

When choosing a variable ND filter, look for one with high-quality glass and coatings to minimize color cast and vignetting. Brands like K&F Concept, Neewer, and B+W offer excellent options at various price points. If you want to learn more about variable nd filters, there are many great resources available online.

What is a CPL Filter

A CPL filter is an important tool for landscape photographers. It reduces glare and reflections from surfaces like water and glass, making colors more saturated and skies darker.

The filter works by only allowing light waves with a specific orientation to pass through. You can rotate the filter to get the desired effect, like removing reflections or bringing out texture in the sky.

A CPL filter is most effective when the sun is to the side, but it’s not recommended in low light or with ultra-wide lenses. It’s also important to consider if reflections add to the scene before using the filter. To learn more about CPL filters, check out our in-depth guide.

Polarizing Filters

A polarizing filter is a secret weapon for landscape photographers. It reduces reflections and enhances colors, giving your photos more vibrancy and contrast.

The best polarizing filters have high-quality glass with no color cast. They also have thin frames to avoid vignetting and high light transmission to minimize exposure adjustments. Coatings that reduce glare, repel water and dust, and prevent scratches are important features to look for.

Polarizing filters come in screw-on, magnetic, and drop-in styles. Screw-on and magnetic filters are sized to fit specific lens diameters, while drop-in filters use a separate holder that fits multiple lenses. To get the most out of a polarizing filter, position the sun at a 90-degree angle to your lens and rotate the filter until reflections disappear. With practice, a polarizing filter can take your landscape photos to the next level.

Effects Filters

Camera filters are a simple and effective way to improve your photography. They manipulate light and reduce unwanted elements to enhance photo quality, color, and effects. Filters are easy to use, conveniently sized, and reasonably priced compared to other camera accessories.

The best camera filters help you achieve better results in specific photography situations. Polarizing filters are great for outdoor photography, as they reduce glare and deepen blue skies. Neutral density (ND) filters allow you to use slower shutter speeds in bright light, making them essential for long exposure shots. Other popular filters include infrared for surreal effects, diffusion for a soft glow, and light pollution filters for night sky photography.

When choosing camera filters, consider your photography needs and the effects you want to achieve. With the right filter, you can take your images to the next level and unleash your creativity behind the lens.

Infrared Filters

Infrared filters block visible light, allowing only infrared light to pass through. This creates unique, surreal-looking photos.

The Hoya R-72 is a great infrared filter at a reasonable price. It blocks visible light up to 720nm and is made with high-quality optical glass. The R-72 can also be paired with color filters for creative effects.

Kolari Vision offers infrared filters in various densities, each producing a different look. They’re scratch-resistant and come with a lifetime guarantee. Kolari provides a helpful table showing the results of each filter density.

To learn more about infrared filters, check out our in-depth guide. It covers the best options for both beginners and professionals.

Lens Protection Filters

Lens protection filters are important for keeping your lenses safe from scratches and damage. They provide an extra layer of protection, possibly saving you thousands of dollars if you drop or knock your camera.

The best lens protection filters use high-quality optical glass that is scratch-resistant and has anti-reflective coatings. This ensures your photos remain sharp and clear. Look for filters that are also water and oil-repellent for added protection.

Choosing the right size filter for your lens is important. Make sure to check the diameter of your lens before purchasing. A good lens protection filter can save you a lot of money and heartache in the long run.

Tripods

A sturdy tripod is essential for capturing sharp landscape photos. Look for a lightweight model made from aluminum or carbon fiber. It should have a high maximum load capacity to safely hold your camera and lens.

Adjustable legs and a versatile tripod head give you flexibility when shooting in uneven terrain. A ball head is a popular choice, allowing you to pan and tilt your camera with ease. Some ball heads also have a groove for vertical mounting.

Other useful features include quick-release plates, bubble levels and rubber feet for extra stability. The best landscape tripods are portable yet strong enough for demanding outdoor photography.

Backpack

Weatherproof camera bags are essential for protecting your expensive gear from the elements. The best bags use high-quality materials that keep water out, even in heavy rain. Look for bags with waterproof zippers and roll-top designs for the best protection.

Bags like the Wandrd Prvke and Duo Daypack offer excellent weather resistance. They’re made with durable, water-resistant materials and have sealed zippers. The Lowepro Freeline is another great option with its rugged, weatherproof exterior.

When choosing a weatherproof camera bag, also consider factors like size, comfort, and access to your gear. A bag that fits your needs and shooting style will make your photography more enjoyable. If you want to learn more about the best weatherproof camera bags, the best weatherproof camera bags have features like roll-top designs and waterproof zippers to keep your gear safe and dry.

Some Other Landscape Accessories

Here are some must-have landscape photography accessories:

A tripod is important for keeping your camera steady and avoiding blurry photos. Look for a sturdy tripod that can handle the weight of your camera and lens.

Filters help you capture better landscape photos. Graduated neutral density filters balance the exposure between the sky and foreground. Neutral density filters allow for long exposures in daylight. Circular polarizers reduce glare and deepen colors.

Protect your camera gear from the elements with accessories like lens hoods, cleaning kits, rain sleeves, and backpack rain covers. Keep your memory cards safe in a protective case.

Bring extra batteries and a power bank to keep your camera powered up during long shoots. A portable hard drive provides additional storage for your photos. Landscape photography accessories like these will help you capture stunning images of the great outdoors. To learn more about must-have landscape photography accessories, check out this in-depth guide.

How to Take Landscape Photos: A Complete Guide

Trevor Marshall — Fri, 10 May 2024 16:12:48 +0000

The landscape has inspired painters and musicians for centuries. And a landscape is the subject of one of the earliest surviving photographs from 200 years ago. The challenge for a photographer is to make their photo as stunning as the original they are capturing.

What is Landscape Photography?

Although we have some advice for urban photography, mostly we will be looking at landscape in the conventional sense. Nature, in all its glory, just waiting to be immortalised with your skill. You might choose mighty waterfalls, or peaceful meadows, or your preference might be for the sea or river. Whatever you choose, you can master the art with our array of useful articles.

Types of Landscape Photography

Landscape photography is a mixed bag with many subjects to explore. Nature photography allows you to showcase the beauty of the wilderness, from deserts and mountain ranges to volcanos. In contrast, urban landscapes offer exciting opportunities to capture cityscapes, stunning architecture, and gritty urbex locations.

Sunsets and sunrises are ideal times for landscape photos, providing warm colors and easier-to-control light. Astrophotography has become more accessible with improved camera technology, letting you capture star trails, the Milky Way, the moon, and even the Aurora Borealis.

Experimenting with different techniques can help you develop a unique style. Light painting, infrared photography, lensball photography, long exposures, and silhouettes are just a few options to try. Composition is key, so consider worm’s eye views, bird’s eye perspectives, minimalism, panoramas, and single subjects. Post-processing opens up even more possibilities, like black and white, digital blending, desaturation, time-lapses, and creative presentation. All these different types of landscape photography offer endless opportunities to capture the world’s beauty and develop your signature style.

How to Get Started in Landscape Photography

At its simplest, landscape photography just needs you and your camera or smartphone. As you experiment and improve, you might want to upgrade your camera, or add a tripod or filters. And there is always scope for planning your shots, using Google maps and sunrise/sunset predictions.

Tips for Beginners

Outdoor photography can be challenging for beginners. But there are some simple things you can do to help you capture stunning shots.

Avoid shooting in midday sun when the light is harsh and creates sharp shadows. Instead, shoot during the “golden hours” – the hour after sunrise and before sunset. The soft, warm light is more flattering and easier for your camera to handle.

Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare, remove reflections, and darken the sky. This simple accessory can dramatically improve your outdoor photos.

Pay attention to your white balance settings. Outdoor lighting conditions change frequently, so switch between AWB, cloudy, daylight, and shade modes as needed. Shooting in RAW also allows for easier adjustments later.

Keep your horizons straight and thoughtfully placed. A tilted horizon can be distracting, while the horizon’s position can impact the mood and focus of your shot.

For more tips on capturing stunning outdoor photography, take a look at our comprehensive guide.

Camera Settings for Landscape Photography

The best landscape photography settings depend on the time of day, weather, and subject. Use an aperture between f/11 and f/16 for a wide depth of field. To freeze motion, set your shutter speed to 1/250s or faster. For motion blur, use 1/10s or slower.

Keep your ISO at 100 for the cleanest image. But don’t be afraid to increase it if you need more light. Landscape photography settings are a balancing act between aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.

Tips for Improving Every Type of Landscape Photography

Landscape photography is such a broad niche, that it helps to look at the many different different types. So we have gathered together articles that look at many different sub-topics in landscape photography. You’re bound to find the right one(s) for you!

Sunrise Photography

Sunrise photography is a rewarding experience that’s worth waking up early for. To capture stunning sunrise photos, arrive at least an hour before sunrise to scout the location and set up your gear. Use a sturdy tripod and a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscape.

As the sun begins to rise, experiment with both long and short exposures to capture movement and freeze moments in time. Use filters or bracketing to balance the light between the bright sky and darker foreground. Set your aperture to f/11 or f/16 for a deep depth of field and adjust your shutter speed based on the available light.

The golden hour after sunrise is the best time to capture warm, glowing light and long shadows that highlight textures in the landscape. With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can create breathtaking sunrise photos. For more tips and techniques, read our sunrise photography guide.

Sunset Photography

Capturing stunning sunset photos requires the right techniques and equipment. A camera with high resolution and dynamic range is ideal for capturing the bright and dark areas of a sunset scene. Using a wide-angle lens will allow you to capture a broad view of the landscape.

Manual mode gives you more control over the camera settings as the lighting changes. Set your white balance to daylight and use a narrow aperture like f/16 for a wide depth of field. A low ISO and slow shutter speed will give you strong colors and sharp details.

A tripod is important to avoid camera shake when using slow shutter speeds. An ND filter can help balance the exposure between bright and dark areas. With the right planning and techniques, you can capture the beauty of a sunset in your photos. To learn more about sunset photography, we have a detailed guide that covers everything you need to know.

Capturing the Sky

Capturing stunning sky photos requires the right conditions. Check the weather forecast and wait for dramatic clouds or stormy weather. The best light is often during early morning and late evening when it’s soft and golden.

Include a point of interest in your sky images to draw the viewer’s attention. Use the rule of thirds to highlight the sky by placing the horizon line lower. A graduated ND filter can help balance the exposure between the bright sky and darker foreground.

Bring a tripod for slower shutter speeds and more creative options like streaking clouds. Don’t be afraid to break photography rules for unconventional results. You can learn more about sky photography in our detailed guide that covers everything you need to know.

Cliffs and Coasts

Capturing stunning coastal landscapes requires the right settings and techniques. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light. Look for interesting foreground elements like rocks or tide pools to add depth to your composition.

Long exposures can create a beautiful silky water effect. Use a polarizing filter to reduce reflections if needed. Try shooting from higher ground, like a cliff, for a unique perspective.

Including hints of human presence, like car headlights, can enhance your photos. Take multiple exposures during changing light conditions, like sunset, to capture the full dynamic range. Don’t forget to look for interesting details in the sand, waves, and rocks. Mastering coastal photography takes practice, but these tips will help you take incredible landscape photos on your next trip to the coast.

Forests

Capturing the beauty of forests can be challenging. Low-angle shots looking up at the treetops make the viewer feel small and emphasize the enormity of the trees. Aerial photography with a drone can capture the vastness of the forest, especially on clear days.

Moonlight and starlight provide unique opportunities for forest photography at night. The trees frame the night sky, and you can capture stunning shots of the stars or even the Northern Lights through the branches. Silhouettes of trees against the dim light before dawn or after dusk create striking images.

Overcast weather is perfect for forest photography, as the clouds soften the harsh light and eliminate shadows. Focus on the details of the forest, such as a single leaf or flower, to tell a story about the place. Experiment with different focal lengths and compositions to capture the view, and try black-and-white photography for a classic, timeless look. Forest photography offers endless opportunities to capture the quiet beauty of nature.

Mountains

You would be forgiven for thinking that it is almost impossible to take a bad photo of a mountain. They are just so naturally impressive. But there are ways to make those pictures even better, and we have some top tips to help you.

Forget about climbing – great mountain photos can be taken from trails or even at sea level. Use a longer focal length to highlight the details of the peaks.

Get close to your foreground and use a wide-angle lens to make the mountains appear massive. Carefully remove any distracting elements like dead grass or bright rocks.

Focus stacking helps capture both a sharp foreground and background. Take multiple shots focused at different distances and combine them in post-processing. This works best with your lens stopped down to its sweet spot, usually around f/7.1.

To learn more about mountain photography, check out our in-depth guide covering the best locations, seasons, weather, and techniques for capturing majestic mountain landscapes.

Deserts

Capturing stunning desert photography requires careful preparation and the right gear. Choose the best time to visit based on your temperature tolerance. Pack essential items like water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay safe and comfortable in harsh desert conditions.

A variety of lenses from wide-angle to telephoto will help you capture the vast desert landscape. Use classic composition methods like leading lines, patterns, and textures to add depth and interest to your images. Look for unique subjects like cacti and colorful rocks to create eye-catching photos.

Low-angle lighting from the sun can show texture in the desert sand and plants. Don’t put your camera away after sunset – silhouettes and night sky photography offer even more opportunities for unique desert images. With some pre-planning and minimal gear, you can enjoy a rewarding desert photography adventure.

Volcano Photography

Photographing volcanoes is a thrilling experience that requires the right gear and safety precautions. A sturdy tripod, zoom lens, and camera raincoat are essential for capturing stunning shots while protecting your equipment from ash and debris. Gas masks, helmets, and heat-resistant clothing are crucial for your safety when getting close to active volcanoes.

Indonesia is home to many picturesque volcanoes, making it a popular destination for volcano photography. Before visiting, research the volcano’s eruption history and consult with locals to find the best vantage points. Always plan a clear escape route and travel with a partner who can keep an eye out for sudden changes in volcanic activity.

Daytime photography allows you to capture explosive eruptions and ash clouds, while nighttime is ideal for volcano photography, especially during the blue hour when you can capture the lava’s glow against the landscape. With the right preparation and techniques, you can create breathtaking images of these powerful natural wonders.

Black and White Landscapes

Black and white landscape photography has a timeless quality that can produce stunning images. To capture the best shots, look for scenes with strong contrast and interesting textures. Pay attention to composition, and consider using the Zone System to ensure proper exposure.

Filters are important tools for black and white landscape photography. Graduated neutral density filters balance bright skies with darker ground, while non-graduated filters can smooth moving water for a beautiful effect.

Shoot in RAW and convert to black and white in post-processing for the most control over your final image. A sturdy tripod, wide-angle lenses, and a backpack-style camera bag are useful equipment for black and white landscape photography.

Night Landscapes

Capturing stunning night landscape photos can be challenging, but with the right tips, you’ll master it in no time. Use a sturdy tripod to avoid camera shake and a wide, fast lens to let in more light. An aperture of f/1.4 to f/3.5 is ideal.

Set your camera to manual mode and use the highest ISO you’re comfortable with to keep the shutter speed quick enough to avoid star trails. A good starting point is 20-30 seconds at ISO 1600-3200.

Light pollution filters can help reduce the orange glow from city lights and let you shoot longer exposures. Compose your shot with an interesting foreground, like trees or rock formations, and use a low-to-moderate moon to light the landscape. With a bit of practice, you’ll be capturing the beauty of the night sky in no time. If you’d like to dive deeper into night landscape photography, we have a complete guide that covers everything you need to know.

Minimalist Landscapes

If you are interested in shooting minimalist landscape photography, there are some points to bear in mind.

Choose the right location, like coastal areas, deserts, or mountains. Compose your shot without extra elements, using the rule of thirds or expansive compositions with lots of negative space.

Wide-angle lenses work well in minimal environments, letting you get close to your subject. Longer focal lengths also work by compressing the scene and blurring the background. Try aerial shots with a drone for a unique view.

Pick a striking focal point to draw the viewer’s eye, like a lone tree, building, or jetty. Stick to just a few colors to keep things simple. Focus on silhouettes against the light for more drama.

Use a tripod for minimalist landscape photography with long exposures to smooth out water or clouds. Visit at the right time of day to avoid crowds and catch the best light.

Fine Art Landscapes

Fine art landscape photography is about capturing the emotion and beauty of the natural world. It’s not just about snapping a pretty picture, but creating an image that tells a story and evokes feeling in the viewer.

To create stunning fine art landscape photos, start by pre-visualizing the final image before pressing the shutter. Think about the mood and message you want to convey. Use color and post-processing to enhance the emotion in your shots.

Composition is key in fine art photography. Look for unexpected subjects and use telephoto lenses to zoom in on interesting patterns and shapes. Always edit your photos in post to bring out the best in your images. If you want to learn more about fine art landscape photography, then our article is a great place to start.

Techniques for Stunning Landscape Photography

Sometimes you get lucky, and snap a wonderful landscape on the fly. But most of the time you will find that skill, knowledge, and judgement will improve the output.

Choose Your Aspect Ratio

The aspect ratio you choose for your landscape photos impacts the composition. A 1:1 square ratio works well when there is a clear center of interest. Rectangular ratios like 4:5, 4:3, and 3:2 are good when there is both vertical and horizontal interest in the scene.

Panoramic ratios like 16:9, 2:1, and 3:1 are best when the interest lies along the horizon. You can also crop to any shape to improve your composition. Keep in mind that some aspect ratios are easier to print and frame than others.

Understanding the correct aspect ratio for landscape photography is an important factor in creating stunning images. Experiment with different ratios to find what works best for each scene.

Timelapse Sunsets

To capture a stunning sunset time-lapse, you’ll need a camera, sturdy tripod, and intervalometer. Find a location with a great view and arrive at least an hour before the sun sets. This gives you time to set up your equipment and find the perfect composition.

Set your camera to Manual mode and your interval to 5-10 seconds for a smooth time-lapse. As the sun sets, adjust your exposure every few minutes to keep your photos consistent. Include a beautiful focal point that tells a story, like an interesting foreground or unique angle.

Use time-lapse software to turn your photos into a professional video. Knowing the best sunset time-lapse settings can help you create a stunning final product that captures the beauty of the setting sun.

Long Exposure Sunsets

Long exposure photography is a great way to capture stunning sunsets. To get started, you’ll need a camera with manual mode, a wide or mid-range lens, and a sturdy tripod. Using a small aperture like f/11 or higher will create a deep depth of field, keeping both the foreground and background in focus.

Motion effects are important in sunset photography. Blurring water, clouds, or other moving elements can make compelling images. The slower the subject moves, the longer your shutter speed will need to be. Clouds may require exposures of 30 seconds or more to effectively blur.

Watch out for blown-out highlights and camera motion when doing long exposures. Use a remote shutter release or your camera’s timer to avoid vibration. A long exposure sunset can be a great way to add motion and interest to your shots.

Long Exposure Landscapes

Long exposure landscape photography can take your images to the next level. Look for overcast weather to add more interest to your photos, and track the sun’s position to avoid overexposed areas. Scout the location beforehand to get a preview of your composition.

Use a tripod and focus a third of the way into the scene for sharp results. Lower your ISO to minimize digital noise and learn to read the histogram for better exposures. An ND filter can help you achieve longer exposures.

Experiment with bulb mode for exciting results, but act fast before the scene changes. Set aside enough time to ensure you get the shot. You can even use post-processing to stack your images for a long exposure effect without filters. Long exposure landscape photography requires patience and practice, but the results are worth it.

How to Make the Most of Every Season

Every season brings its own beauty. Understanding what works best for each one will help to unlock the greatest landscape photos. Snow poses different problems from bright summer sun, so it’s best to be prepared with all the knowledge at your disposal.

Seasonal Tips

Spring is a time of rebirth in nature, with flowers blooming and waterfalls swelling with melting snow. Summer brings long days and dramatic weather, perfect for astrophotography and capturing the Milky Way. Autumn’s warm colors make it a favorite season for all types of photography, from landscapes to portraits.

Winter has its challenges, with short days and freezing conditions. But snow-capped mountains and frozen waterfalls offer unique photo opportunities. No matter the season, there’s always something beautiful to capture in the landscape.

For more tips on seasonal landscape photography, from choosing the best locations to working with different weather conditions, be sure to explore our in-depth guide.

Summer Landscapes

Summer landscape photography can be challenging due to harsh sunlight and long days. To overcome these issues, shoot during sunrise or sunset when the light is softer. A polarizing filter can also help reduce haze and saturate colors.

Planning is key for summer landscape photography. Scout locations in advance to determine the best time of day to shoot. Keep an eye on the weather, as summer storms can provide dramatic photo opportunities.

Popular summer photography subjects include flowers, bodies of water, and coastlines. The Milky Way is also highly visible during summer nights, making it a great time for astrophotography. Summer landscape photography offers many opportunities to capture stunning images with the right planning and techniques.

Summer and Sunflowers

Sunflowers make a cheerful and stunning subject for a photoshoot. Hold up a sunflower to your subject’s face for a fun size comparison. Find a field on a hill and shoot from a high perspective to create an endless sea of yellow flowers.

Get down low and shoot at the height of the flowers for a dramatic viewpoint. Use a shallow depth of field to make your subject stand out. Bring a flash to add more light and make the sunflowers’ colors pop.

Look for a single sunflower that stands taller than the rest and make it your focal point. To learn more about sunflower photoshoot ideas, we have a great article with additional tips and inspiration.

Abstract Landscapes

Abstract landscape photography pushes the boundaries of traditional landscape photography. It emphasizes visual components like shapes, textures, colors, and patterns to reimagine how we view our surroundings. Aerial perspectives can create unique, abstracted landscapes by flattening a 3D environment into a 2D canvas.

Camera movement during long exposures introduces a dynamic energy into abstract landscape photos. Converting images to black and white minimizes distractions and emphasizes composition through the interplay of light and shadow. Photographing landscapes through glass can add layers of distilled color and light.

Experimenting with bokeh, minimalist techniques, and illusions can further engage viewers. By deconstructing scenery into abstract shapes and forms, you might be surprised by the fascinating results. There’s plenty of great ideas for abstract landscape photography in our article.

Autumn Landscapes

Autumn is the perfect time to capture stunning colors, cozy moments, and breathtaking scenery in your photos. Focus on thrown leaves to create exciting compositions, or paint them for more intense colors. Highlight the transitions between summer, autumn, and winter to show compelling contrasts.

Use monochromatic color palettes for eye-catching photos by having your subject blend in with their surroundings. Take advantage of the warm, soft light during golden hour to emphasize autumn’s colors. Capture rays of sunlight for an ethereal look, and shoot from low angles to include more foreground and background details.

Don’t forget to take photos during Halloween and Thanksgiving to capture the essence of these holidays. Use autumn produce and decorations in your food photography to bring a piece of the season inside. For a different look, take photos in fog and rain, or create cozy indoor portraits on bad weather days. Combine fairy lights with autumn colors for glowing, dreamy images. To learn more about autumn photography, check out our in-depth guide.

More Autumn Lanscape Ideas

Fall photography is a unique challenge. The warm colors of autumn, like yellow, orange, and red, shift our normal color scheme and force us to refocus our cameras and brains. To capture these vibrant scenes, it’s important to adjust our compositional strategies.

Start by looking at the landscape up close and capturing details. Then, step back and photograph the local landscape surrounding your focal point. Finally, take in the broad scene and all that surrounds you. By combining these three types of images, you can tell a compelling story of your fall photography experience.

When shooting wide landscapes, use the foreground to showcase the bright autumn colors and let the dramatic backdrop serve as the setting. If you’d like to learn more about fall photography, there are many helpful resources available online.

Moody Landscapes

Moody landscape photography is all about capturing the feeling of a scene. Cloudy or foggy weather can create a haunting atmosphere perfect for this style. Adjust your camera settings manually and use a tripod to avoid taking dull photos.

Shoot through objects like branches or grass to add depth and frame your subject. You can also convert your images to black and white for a more dramatic look. Enhance your photos further using the graduated filter tool in Lightroom to darken the sky and create a gloomy mood.

By choosing the right location and using these techniques, you can take your dark and moody landscape photos to the next level. We have even more tips and tricks to explore if you want to dive deeper into moody landscape photography.

Winter Landscapes

Capturing stunning winter landscapes requires the right gear and techniques. Dress in warm layers and pack extra batteries, as cold weather drains them quickly. A small towel is also handy for wiping snow off your lens.

Plan your shoot carefully to avoid spending too much time in the cold. Early morning light creates a soft, warm glow on the snow. Keep your spare battery in an inside pocket to preserve its charge, and avoid breathing on the front of your lens to prevent condensation.

Snow can trick your camera’s meter, so overexpose slightly or use exposure bracketing. A larger f-number will keep more of the scene in focus. Experiment with different shutter speeds to freeze or streak falling snow. Look for contrasting colors and interesting patterns to compose your shots. To learn more about winter landscape photography, check out our in-depth guide.

Winter Photography Ideas

Winter photography offers exciting opportunities to capture stunning, surreal images. To make the most of the season, dress warmly and bring a hot beverage to stay comfortable in the cold. Overexpose your photos to achieve a soft, dreamy effect with the gentle ambient light reflecting off the snow.

Winter is perfect for heartwarming couple and portrait photoshoots. Have your subjects wear cozy outfits with scarves, hats, and gloves to contrast against the snowy backdrop. You can also capture the season’s moody side by using winter fog as an eerie background for lonely, distant figures.

Explore the beauty of winter through macro photography of snowflakes, frost, and frozen soap bubbles. Capture the magic of the season in landscapes showcasing golden light reflecting off the snow or dramatic contrasts between warm and cool tones during sunrises and sunsets. Winter photography offers endless creative possibilities to capture the essence of this enchanting time of year.

How to Photograph Water Landscapes

As much as the landscape is ever-changing, water is even more so. It moves and ripples, or it rests, mirror-like reflecting the sky. Using your skills you can create dreamy, soft long-exposure waterfalls, or capture droplets in frozen glory.

Camera Settings

To capture the beauty and power of water in your photos, you need to use the right settings. Long exposure is a common technique for moving water, turning restless seas into fog-like surfaces or calm rivers into smooth mirrors. Determine the shutter speed based on the effect you want to achieve, typically anywhere from 1 second to infinity.

Freezing motion in water photography requires fast shutter speeds, at least 1/100 sec or 1/200 sec, depending on the speed of the water and your focal length. Experiment with different exposures to control the length of water drop trails. Keeping the water’s fluidity is important, and a great starting point is 1/2 seconds, adjusting from there.

The shutter speed ranges from ultra-long exposure to ultra-fast, depending on the desired final look. Aperture and ISO play roles in achieving the necessary exposure. Learning more about water photography settings will help you to capture stunning water images.

Photographing the Ocean

Ocean photography captures the beauty and power of the sea. To get stunning shots, you need the right gear like a sturdy tripod, water shoes, microfiber cloths, and filters. Safety is important when shooting near the ocean, so watch out for rising tides, strong waves, and slippery rocks.

Long exposure is a key technique that smooths out the water’s motion. Experiment with shutter speeds from 1/4 second to 10 seconds for different effects. You can also capture interesting patterns by timing your shots with incoming and receding waves.

Look for opportunities to photograph reflections in rock pools, puddles, and wet sand. Telephoto lenses are great for balancing compositions and focusing on distant features. When shooting ocean waves, use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/250 second. Finally, incorporate sunbursts into your seascapes by partially obscuring the sun behind rocks or cliffs. Ocean photography takes practice, but the results are worth it.

Long Exposure Ocean Photos

Long exposure photography is a great way to capture stunning beach photos. A sturdy tripod is essential to avoid camera shake from wind and waves. Use neutral density filters to reduce the amount of light entering the camera, allowing for longer exposures.

Shooting from a cliff can smooth out the waves and create a level sea with soft color transitions. This works best with rugged elements like cliffs and fast-moving clouds. Foggy water effects are achieved by averaging the movement of waves over a long exposure, creating a misty look around solid objects like rocks.

Water trails on the sand are created by photographing receding water with exposures around 1/2 to 2 seconds. Ultra-long exposures of 30 seconds or more can completely smooth out water and clouds for a surreal effect. Abstract ocean photography combines medium-length exposures with zooming, focusing on movement, lines, and colors. If you’d like to learn more about long exposure beach photography, check out our article.

Practical Tips for Seascape Photography

Seascape photography captures the beauty and power of the ocean. To get the best shots, use a sturdy tripod and don’t be afraid to get wet. Check the tide and swell before shooting to ensure your safety.

Use a small aperture like f/8 to maximize depth of field. Look for reflections in tidepools and wet sand to add interest to your compositions. Experiment with different shutter speeds to capture the motion of the waves, from smooth long exposures to frozen splashes.

Shoot from different vantage points, like sea level or high on a cliff. Use the waves themselves as subjects or foregrounds. Try shooting at various times of day and with different lenses for diverse seascape images. Seascape photography is a challenging, but rewarding field of work.

Beach Photography Ideas

Beaches offer stunning landscapes for photography. To avoid crowds, go during off-peak hours or to less popular locations. Including people in your shots can add interest, but be respectful of their privacy.

The golden hour just after sunrise or before sunset provides a magical light for beach photos. Look for interesting details like shells, footprints, and textures to capture unique close-ups. Experiment with shutter speeds to freeze crashing waves or create a silky water effect using long exposures.

Bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors, especially in the sea. Beaches are also great for silhouettes and playing with color temperature to set the mood. With so many creative possibilities, you can always find something interesting for your beach photography.

Waterfalls

Capturing stunning waterfall photos requires the right gear and techniques. A sturdy tripod is essential for stability, especially when shooting long exposures. Use a circular polarizing filter to reduce reflections and bring out the colors in the water and surrounding foliage.

Composition is key. Take time to explore different angles and perspectives before setting up your shot. Look for interesting foreground elements, like rocks or fallen leaves, to guide the viewer’s eye towards the waterfall.

When it comes to camera settings, shoot in aperture priority mode with a small aperture (f/9 or higher) for a large depth of field. Use a slow shutter speed to create a silky, smooth effect on the moving water. To learn more about waterfall photography, check out this in-depth guide.

Tips for Capturing Different Types of Weather

Every type of weather brings its own glory, and its own challenges. Knowing how to prepare, and the best techniques to use, can lift your landscape photography to a new level.

Fog

Photographing fog can create mystical, ethereal images. To capture the best shots, be mobile and ready to move with the fog as it shifts. Use light to your advantage by positioning yourself so the light comes from behind the fog, illuminating the scene with a soft glow.

Fog can make autofocus less effective, so switch to manual focus and identify a sharp object to lock your focus. Shoot in RAW to have more control over white balance and tone when editing. And watch for condensation building up on your lens.

Fog photography takes practice to master. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts are unsuccessful. With time and experience, you’ll soon be capturing stunning, moody landscapes shrouded in fog. If you want to dive deeper into fog photography, we have more tips to help you create magical images.

Snow

Snow photography can be challenging, but with the right techniques, you can capture stunning winter scenes. Shoot in RAW format to preserve detail in the bright snow. Use your camera’s histogram to ensure a correct exposure and avoid overexposed or underexposed images.

Set your white balance manually to compensate for the blueish tone of snow in shade. A lens hood and polarizing filter can help limit unwanted reflections from the snow. Dress warmly in layers, wear sunglasses to prevent snow blindness, and use a rain cover to protect your camera from moisture.

Capture the magical light of winter sunrises and sunsets for added contrast and interest in your snow photos. Emphasize the unique tones and minimalist look of snowy scenes. For more in-depth snow photography tips and techniques, be sure to explore our comprehensive guide.

How to Use Light in Your Landscape Photography

Whether it is moonlight or searing noonday sun, understanding light is essential for the best landscape photography results. The light that is available, and how you use it, can shape your photos. It’s worth taking the tine to learn the best tips for using it to its fullest potential.

Find the Best Light

The quality of light changes throughout the day, and some types of light work better for specific genres than others. Midday light can be harsh, but it’s great for bringing out textures in your photos. Use a polarizing filter to avoid overexposure and darken bright areas like the sky.

Shooting in the shade or indoors during midday can create a soft, glowing effect. Cloudy days provide even lighting that’s ideal for outdoor photography, especially in open spaces like fields or beaches.

Golden hour, the time before sunset and after sunrise, is a favorite among photographers. The warm, soft light enhances landscapes and creates a dreamy atmosphere for portraits. For a unique look, try shooting during blue hour, the 20-30 minutes before sunrise or after sunset, to capture a magical blue hue. Time spent learning about light quality for photography will be time well-spent.

Make the Most of Natural Light

Natural light is one of the best sources for stunning photography. Shooting during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset provides soft, warm light that flatters subjects. Midday sun creates harsh shadows that can be used for dramatic effect.

Experiment with different angles, like side lighting to highlight contours or backlighting for a glowing effect. Indoors, window light is a great option for soft, natural illumination. Reflect light off surfaces to create a unique look or use dappled light through leaves for interesting patterns.

Don’t let bad weather stop you – overcast skies provide even, diffused light that’s perfect for portraits. Use a polarizing filter to enhance colors and soften harsh midday light. Natural light photography offers endless creative possibilities for stunning images.

Side Lighting

Side lighting is a powerful technique that can add depth, drama, and emotion to your photos. It involves lighting your subject from the side, creating a strong contrast between the illuminated and shadowed areas. This type of lighting is perfect for emphasizing textures, shapes, and forms in your subject.

To use side lighting effectively, position your light source at a 45-degree angle from your subject. This will create a balance between the lit and shadowed areas. Experiment with the distance and intensity of the light to control the contrast and mood of your image.

Side lighting is particularly useful in portrait photography, where it can highlight facial features and create a sense of character. It’s also effective in landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the sun is low on the horizon. If you’d like to learn more about side lighting, there are many great resources available to help you master this technique.

Tips for Aerial Landscape Photography

Once the preserve of the big budget, aerial photography is now within the grasp of many of us. Drones, in all their shapes and sizes, bring us a fresh view on the world. I you’re thinking of moving to drone photography for landscape work, we’ve got some great advice for you.

Using Your Drone

Drone photography offers a unique bird’s eye view perspective, allowing you to capture stunning landscapes, cityscapes, and architecture from new heights. To get started, it’s important to choose a quality drone with a good camera resolution and practice flying exercises to build confidence and skill.

When shooting, consider composition techniques like the rule of thirds, patterns, and including people for scale. Editing your drone photos in Lightroom or Photoshop can further improve them, and you may want to try converting some to black and white for a dramatic look.

If you’d like to learn more about drone photography, our comprehensive guide covers everything from safety measures and gear to creative shooting ideas and post-processing tips.

Top Tips for Drone Photography

Drones have opened up a whole new world of landscape photography. To take your aerial images to the next level, keep your drone close to the ground. This allows the camera to see the contours of the landscape and capture more detail.

The best time for drone photography is about 30-60 minutes after sunrise and before sunset. The sun is low but still high enough to light up the whole scene. Use side-lighting to reveal the shape and depth of the landscape.

Look for symmetry and contrasting textures in your compositions. Drone photography can have a painterly feel due to the way it captures the textures of the landscape. To learn more about landscape drone photography, we have a great in-depth article that covers everything you need to know.

Best Drone Apps

Drone apps make flying and capturing photos easier than ever. AirMap is a must-have, providing location-based flight restrictions for over 20 countries. Google Maps helps find the best places to launch and plan compositions.

PhotoPills is incredibly useful, allowing you to plan shots based on the sun’s movement and your flying altitude. UAV Forecast gives detailed weather info like wind speed, cloud cover, and rain chances.

DJI Go and Litchi are great for controlling DJI drones, offering intelligent flight modes and mission planning. With so many helpful drone apps available, you’ll be capturing stunning aerial shots in no time.

ND Filters for Drones

Using a drone ND filter can help you capture stunning aerial photos in bright sunlight. ND filters reduce the amount of light entering the lens, allowing you to use slower shutter speeds without overexposing your images. This is especially useful for creating motion blur in drone videos, giving them a more professional look.

When choosing an ND filter, consider the intensity level you need based on the lighting conditions. ND filters come in different strengths, such as ND4, ND8, ND16, and ND32, with higher numbers indicating less light transmission. It’s important to invest in a good quality filter pack to ensure the best results.

To use an ND filter effectively, shoot in manual mode to have full control over your camera settings. Adjust your shutter speed and ISO to achieve the desired exposure while using the ND filter. With the right combination of settings and a drone ND filter, you can capture beautiful aerial photos and videos in even the brightest conditions.

Hot Air Balloons

Arriving early to a hot air balloon event allows you to scout the location and secure a good spot before the crowds arrive. Don’t just focus on the inflated balloons – photograph the preparation process too, like unrolling the balloon and attaching the basket. This adds variety to your photos.

Get close-up shots of the colorful balloon material to fill the entire frame. Interact with the crew and get close to capture candid photos. Frame your shot and wait for the perfect moment as the balloon moves into position.

Incorporate points of interest like buildings, people, or landscapes to add context to your balloon photos. Research beforehand to find unique perspectives that stand out. For an extraordinary experience, photograph the balloons from the air. Speak to the operator to secure the best spot in the basket. Adjust your camera settings based on the available light and your creative vision. Always prioritize safety and be careful around the balloon fabric and ropes. To learn more about hot air balloon photoshoot, check out this in-depth guide.

Aerial Landscape Photography

Aerial photography offers a unique perspective on the landscape. By capturing scenes from above, you can create abstract images that play with our understanding of the environment.

To find potential locations, use Google Earth to explore areas from a satellite view. Keep in mind that factors like season and weather can change how the landscape looks in person.

Drones provide flexibility for aerial photography. Their small size allows for quick adjustments to your perspective and the ability to fly close to uneven ground or trees. Always follow local regulations when flying drones. For a longer range and higher altitudes, consider photographing from a fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter. Incorporate artistic elements like lines, shapes, and colors to add depth and interest to your abstract aerial landscapes. Applying the principles of art and design, such as balance, rhythm, and emphasis, will further enhance your compositions.

By exploring aerial landscape photography, you can depict the essence of an environment in a unique and intriguing way.

How to Pick the Best Locations for Landscape Photography

It’s never been easier to plan a landscape shot. Find the location on Google Maps, check the location of the sun at the proposed shooting time, and get weather updates. All of these things make the landscape photographer’s life much easier.

Scouting for Locations

Location scouting is key to successful landscape photography. Thorough online research using tools like Google Maps, Wikiloc, and Alltrails can help you plan your trip. Asking locals for advice on the best spots and how to get there is also very useful.

Understand the seasons and weather patterns of your destination. This helps you pack the right gear and prepare for the conditions. Constantly monitor the weather forecast so you know what to expect during your shoot.

Always carry a map and tell people your route in case of emergencies. Pack a first aid kit, rain gear, and a power bank. And don’t forget to bring a camera to capture any stunning scenes you find while scouting. If you’d like to learn more about planning landscape photography, we have an in-depth guide that covers everything you need to know.

Iconic Locations

From the towering cliffs of Zion National Park to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, the world is full of iconic places that offer stunning photography opportunities. Zion National Park in Utah, USA, boasts dramatic landscapes and narrow canyons carved by the Virgin River over centuries. The park’s reddish sandstone walls and wildflowers in spring make it a must-visit for landscape photographers.

Across the Atlantic, the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt stand as the only remaining intact Ancient Wonder of the world. Visiting before sunrise allows you to capture beautiful views without the crowds. In Europe, the colorful coastline of Cinque Terre, Italy, with its rugged terrain and tiny houses clinging to cliffs, has been captured by many professional photographers.

For a truly unique experience, head to Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, the world’s largest salt flat. After rainfall, the water collects on top of the salt, creating a massive mirror that reflects the sky above. This alien landscape serves as a perfect setting for stunning and creative photography. To explore more iconic places around the globe, dive deeper into the world’s most photogenic destinations.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a photographer’s paradise, offering stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Some of the best photo spots include El Capitan, a massive rock formation that’s perfect for capturing depth and scale in your shots. Use a neutral-density filter to prevent overexposure when photographing during the day.

Yosemite Falls, the highest waterfall in the park, is best photographed in the spring when water flow is at its peak. Tuolumne Meadows, open only in the summer, provides a peaceful setting for capturing lakes and springs without the crowds.

Other must-see locations include Sentinel Dome, offering 360-degree views; Vernal Fall, a powerful waterfall; and Mirror Lake, known for its reflective beauty. Cathedral Peak is an excellent spot for exciting rock climbing photos, while Tunnel View allows you to capture El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Falls in one frame, especially during the golden hour. To learn more about the photo spots in Yosemite, check out this in-depth guide.

Iceland

Iceland is a photographer’s paradise with its stunning landscapes and natural wonders. From the famous Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls to the unique black sand beaches of Reynisfjara and Diamond Beach, there’s no shortage of breathtaking locations to capture.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon and Thórsmörk mountain ridge offer hiking trails and incredible views. The Mývatn Lake area is another must-visit spot, featuring volcanic landscapes, glacial canyons, and the chance to witness the northern lights.

Don’t miss the opportunity to photograph the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture in Reykjavík during golden hour or the blue hour for an unforgettable shot. To learn more about Iceland photography tips, check out this in-depth guide that covers everything from the best locations to essential gear and techniques.

New Zealand

New Zealand is a photographer’s paradise with stunning landscapes and dramatic coastlines. The Māori name for New Zealand, Aotearoa, means ‘Land Of The Long White Cloud’. The mountains and surrounding sea create an ever-changing landscape with new scenes around every corner.

Some of the best spots for photography include Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Milford Sound, and the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Queenstown offer great cityscapes, especially at night or during golden hour. New Zealand also has many beautiful waterfalls, countryside scenes, and unique geothermal landscapes.

The South Island is known for its crystal clear lakes with breathtaking mountain reflections and turquoise water. And you can’t go wrong with a New Zealand sunset, especially on the west coast or near snowy mountains. Photography in New Zealand offers diverse scenery, accessible vantage points, and plenty of photo opportunities year-round.

Taking Your Landscape Photography to the Next Level

Landscape photography offers an easy entry point, with just your phone camera. And it offers almost limitless room for improvement and refinement. We’re here to help you find the skills and inspiration to make the most of this captivating genre.

Some Creative Ideas and Techniques

Slow down your shutter speed with a neutral density filter to capture dreamy long exposures, even in bright sunlight. Use Bulb mode and a cable release for exposures of several minutes, perfect for capturing light trails at night.

Shoot through a flower petal or leaf to add a soft wash of color to your landscapes while keeping the main subject sharp. A telephoto lens is great for eliminating clutter and distractions in busy scenes.

Don’t be afraid to use high ISOs when shooting handheld or including people in your shots. Enable highlight alert on your camera to avoid overexposed areas. Rest your camera on the ground with a 2-second timer for sharp photos without a tripod.

To learn more about landscape photography ideas, there are many great resources available that dive deeper into the topic and provide even more creative techniques to try.

Composition

Composition is key in landscape photography. The rule of thirds is a great starting point, but don’t be afraid to explore other techniques like the golden ratio and golden triangle.

Symmetry can create stunning landscapes, especially when combining natural and manmade elements. Including an interesting foreground will grab the viewer’s attention and guide their eye through the image.

Framing your shot through natural elements like trees or windows can add depth and interest. Most importantly, make sure your subject is clear and use techniques like leading lines to draw the viewer’s eye. To learn more about landscape composition, check out this in-depth guide.

Make the Most of Color

Color theory is a powerful tool for creating stunning landscape photos. By understanding how colors interact, you can capture images with greater emotional depth and visual interest. The color wheel is a handy guide that shows the relationships between colors.

Complementary colors like blue and orange create strong contrast, while analogous colors like green, teal, and blue flow harmoniously. Warm colors from red to yellow evoke a sense of immediacy, while cool colors like blue and violet bring a calming effect.

Colors also influence our emotions in landscape photography. Blue inspires awe, green creates tranquility, and red directs attention. By mastering color theory for landscape photography, you can take your landscape photos to the next level.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Sometimes the best advice you get is on what not to do. We’ve identified some of the most common errors in landscape photography.

Shoot during the golden hour before sunset or after sunrise for the best light. Visit locations at the right time of year to capture seasonal changes like autumn colors or snow.

Always use a tripod for sharper images and to allow long exposures. Include a main subject like a lone tree or lighthouse to create interest in your composition.

Check the weather forecast and tide tables before heading out. Try shooting from unique angles at popular locations to get a fresh perspective. Revisit places you’ve photographed before, as conditions will be different each time.

If you see an amazing moment, stop and capture it right away. Edit your photos with digital blending and sharpening to get the best results. Use the right camera settings like f/8 or f/11 aperture for sharp focus throughout the scene.

To learn more about avoiding common mistakes, check out our article that goes into more depth on the topic.

Using Your iPhone

Taking stunning landscape photos with your iPhone is easy when you know the right techniques. Use the grid feature to compose your shot following the rule of thirds. Place your main subject where the grid lines intersect for a balanced composition.

Lighting is key in landscape photography. Shoot during the golden hours just after sunrise or before sunset for the most beautiful colors and shadows. Consider using HDR mode to capture more detail in high-contrast scenes.

Editing your photos can take them to the next level. Adjust the white balance, exposure, contrast, and shadows to make your image pop. Apply presets or filters to enhance the colors and drama, but use them sparingly to keep the scene looking natural. Taking landscape photos on iPhone is a great way to capture the beauty of the world around you.

Try Infrared Photography

Infrared photography lets you capture the invisible light spectrum, creating unique and surprising images. To get started, you’ll need a camera that can see IR light, a sturdy tripod, and an IR filter like the Hoya R72.

Midday sun is the best time for IR photography. Landscapes are the most common subjects, with water and blue skies appearing dark while grass, leaves, and clouds appear white. The contrast between IR-absorbing and IR-reflecting objects is what makes these images stand out.

Editing IR photos involves fixing the white balance and deciding between a black and white or false color conversion. You can also blend IR and visible light photos for creative results. Infrared photography is a great way to show familiar scenes in a new and unexpected way.

Panoramic Photos

Panoramic photos capture wide, sweeping landscapes that a single image can’t do justice. To take a panoramic photo, use a standard or short telephoto lens between 40-100mm. Remove any filters, especially polarizers, and shoot in RAW format for the most flexibility in post-processing.

Set your camera to manual mode and meter off the brightest part of the scene. Turn off autofocus and set the white balance in-camera or adjust it later in post-processing. Use a tripod if possible and overlap each shot by 1/3 to 1/2 of a frame as you pan across the scene.

In post-processing, check that each image has the same white balance settings. Then stitch the images together using software like Lightroom, Photoshop, or PTGui. Crop away any jagged edges caused by slight misalignments. With practice, you can create stunning panoramic photos that capture the grandeur of vast landscapes.

Urban Landscapes

Urban landscape photography captures the beauty of human-made environments. To take spectacular urban landscape shots, explore the city and look for new perspectives. Photograph repetitive patterns and textures, and try black and white to emphasize shapes and forms.

Use leading lines like bridges and roads to guide the viewer’s eye through the image. Photograph during the day and at night for varied lighting and atmospheres. You can even explore abandoned venues for surreal, timeworn scenes.

Don’t forget to capture the small details that make up the urban landscape, and take your phtoogrpahy to the next level!

How to Edit Landscape Photos

If you shoot RAW images, your landscape photos will look very dull straight out of the camera. But that’s the beauty of RAW. It is a starting point for what can be some spectacular editing.

There are countless presets you can download for free, or buy, that will help you to bring your photos to life.

You can apply filters in processing that you don’t have in the field. There is so much to learn about editing your landscape photos, that there is no better time to start than now.

How to Edit Landscape Photos: A Complete Guide

Trevor Marshall — Fri, 10 May 2024 15:31:05 +0000

Editing your landscape photos can take them form ordinary to amazing. One of the best reasons to shoot in RAW is so that you can lift your photos with careful editing. And your landscapes will never look better!

How to Edit Landscape Photos

If you shoot RAW images, your landscape photos will look very dull straight out of the camera. But that’s the beauty of RAW. It is a starting point for what can be some spectacular editing.

Photoshop

Editing your landscape photos in Photoshop is essential for getting the best results. Start by opening the RAW file in Camera RAW to adjust the exposure, shadows, highlights, white balance, and colors. Keep the edits natural and realistic.

In Photoshop, use adjustment layers to fine-tune the levels and contrast. Bring back any lost detail in the highlights using the brush tool set to “Darken.” The dodge and burn tools are great for selectively lightening or darkening specific areas.

Finally, crop the photo to the desired aspect ratio for the perfect composition. Photoshop offers countless tools and functions for photoshop landscape editing, but mastering these basics will give you a solid foundation for improving your landscape photos.

Adding Lens Flare

Adding lens flare in Photoshop is a great way to enhance your photos. The easiest method is to use the Lens Flare filter. First, create a new layer and fill it with black. Then apply the Lens Flare filter and adjust the brightness and position.

Change the layer blending mode to Screen to remove the black background. Use Hue/Saturation to adjust the color of the flare. You can also apply other filters like Gaussian Blur to make it look more natural.

If you want to learn more about lens flare in Photoshop, then take a look at our article.

Advanced Techniques

Here are some tips for editing landscape photos to perfection:

Adjust the white balance to make colors look natural. Use the histogram to check exposure and make sure no details are lost in shadows or highlights. Straighten the horizon line for a balanced composition.

Improve contrast and color saturation to make the image pop, but don’t overdo it. Remove distracting elements like power lines or trash. Crop the photo to improve the composition and draw attention to the main subject.

Learning how to edit landscape photos takes practice, but these basic tips will help you get started. With some simple adjustments, you can take your landscape photos from good to great.

Create a Waterfall Effect

Creating a waterfall effect in Photoshop is a great way to add a silky-smooth look to your waterfall photos. First, select the waterfall using the Lasso tool and copy it to a new layer. Then apply a motion blur filter to the new layer, adjusting the angle to match the water flow.

Next, add a layer mask and use a soft-edged brush to clean up the edges of the waterfall. Apply the same steps to the river for a consistent look. If needed, use the Warp tool to add curves to the crest or stages of the waterfall for a more natural appearance.

While the waterfall effect in Photoshop can produce beautiful results, it won’t look exactly like a real long-exposure photo.

The Orton Effect

The Orton Effect is a post-processing technique that adds a soft, dreamy look to landscape photos. It involves merging a sharp, in-focus image with a blurred, overexposed version of the same shot. This creates a photo with a sharp subject and a glowing, ethereal background.

In Photoshop, create the effect by duplicating your image layer and adding a strong Gaussian Blur. Then boost the contrast and brightness of the blurred layer. Finally, reduce the opacity of the blurred layer to control the strength of the effect.

You can also achieve a similar look in Lightroom by lowering the Texture, Clarity, and Dehaze sliders, then increasing the Contrast, Highlights, Shadows, and Whites. The Orton Effect is a powerful way to add a romantic, mysterious vibe to your landscapes.

Tone Mapping

HDR tone mapping is a technique that combines multiple photos taken at different exposures to create a single image with a high dynamic range. This allows you to capture more detail in both the highlights and shadows of a scene. To create an HDR image, take at least three bracketed shots at different exposure levels using a tripod.

Next, merge the photos using HDR software like Photomatix, Aurora HDR, or Photoshop’s built-in HDR Pro. These programs will align and blend the images, giving you a starting point for tone mapping.

Tone mapping is where you adjust the merged HDR image to achieve a natural-looking result. It’s best to use subtle processing here to avoid an overly artificial look. HDR tone mapping is a great way of making your landscape photos look that much more special.

Apps for Landscape Photography

Landscape photography is all about capturing the beauty of the natural world. From majestic mountains to rolling hills, there are endless possibilities for stunning landscape photos.

If you’re looking to improve your landscape photography skills, check out these apps. Time and Date offers an ephemeris for any place in the world. Sun Surveyor and PhotoPills show you when the Sun and Moon rise. Stellarium lets you see the constellations, planets, Moon, and Milky Way.

MeteoBlue helps you find starry nights. ISS Detector tracks the International Space Station and other orbiting objects. Weather Underground provides accurate weather forecasts. Estofex warns of severe weather in Europe. Space Weather Live forecasts the Northern Lights. Viewranger helps you navigate rough terrain. Monumental Trees is a database of stunning trees around the globe. Tide Charts tells you the best time for seascape photography. Google Earth lets you plan shoots anywhere in the world.

These apps for landscape photographers will take your shots to the next level, no matter what you’re shooting.

The Best Lens for Long Exposure in 2024 (Top 8 Lenses)

Christopher Bryan-Smith — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 13:48:10 +0000

To master the art of long-exposure photography, you need the best lens for long exposure. But which type of lens is best for shooting long exposures?

The lens needs to have sharp optics and a wide focal length. And it needs to match your camera system. So, our article is packed with high-quality wide-angle lenses for all the top camera brands.

The Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM is our choice as the best lens for long-exposure photography. It’s a beautiful wide-angle zoom from Canon’s superior L Series. It gives you edge-to-edge clarity, image stabilization, and the perfect aperture range for long exposure.

Our Top 3 Choices for the Best Lens for Long Exposure

Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm F/2.8

Sony FE 20-70mm F/4 G SEL2070G

What Is the Best Lens For Long Exposure?

The best lens for long exposure helps you capture stunning images. It doesn’t matter if you shoot long-exposure landscapes, cityscapes, or something more experimental. Using the right lens is key to success. That’s why we recommend the Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM.

Good optical quality is important in all types of photography. But edge-to-edge clarity is especially important when it comes to long-exposure photography.

The camera won’t always pick up imperfections when using a fast shutter speed. But imperfections are detected and magnified when the shutter is open for a long time.

We recommend wide-angle lenses for long-exposure photos. Using a lens with a short focal length, you get a broader view of the scene in front of you. And we’ve selected zoom lenses, so you have more flexibility with composition when on location.

A fast max aperture isn’t important in this discipline. Your shutter is open for seconds at a time. So, getting enough light won’t be a problem.

But you still want a decent aperture range for more exposure control. Most of our lenses have a f/4 max aperture, more than enough for long exposures.

Here’s a quick overview of all the best lenses for long exposures. We focus on each lens in more detail in the section after. And we have a bonus section at the end looking at photography equipment for long-exposure photography.

Best Canon Mirrorless Lens

Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Beautiful zoom lens with ultra-wide field of view
Sub-Wavelength Structure coating and an Air Sphere coatings on glass
Wide f/4 to f/22 aperture range
Weather-resistant for outdoor use

Best Canon DSLR Lens

Canon EF 16-35mm F/4L IS USM

Delivers wide-angle, low-light performance
Incorporates Optical Image Stabilizer
Minimizes aberrations with aspheric and Extra-Low Dispersion elements
Dust-resistant and water-resistant for robust use

Best Nikon Mirrorless Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm F/2.8

Ultra-wide zoom defies conventional limits
Versatile 17–28mm focal range covers all needs
Fixed f/2.8 aperture excels in low-light settings
Light, durable, and perfect for telling epic stories

Best Nikon DSLR Lens

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm F/4G ED VR

Ultra-wide zoom for versatile shooting
Vibration Reduction for sharper handheld shots
Nano Crystal Coat enhances image clarity
Quick switch between manual and autofocus

Best Sony Lens

Sony FE 20-70mm F/4 G SEL2070G

Ultra-wide 20-70mm zoom for varied subjects
Advanced Aspherical element to remove abberations
Fast, quiet XD Linear Motor technology
Compact design with state-of-the-art optics

Best Fujifilm Lens

Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR

Advanced optical elements for superior image quality
6-stop stabilization for clear hand-held shots
Lightweight and durable for adventure seekers
Weather-sealed for reliable outdoor use

Best Panasonic Lens

Panasonic LUMIX S Pro 16-35mm F/4

Wide-angle zoom for Lumix full-frame cameras
3 aspherical and one Ultra-High Refractive element
Manual focus clutch for better focus control
Rugged build; splashproof, dustproof, and freezeproof

Best Olympus Lens

Olympus ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II

Exceptional image quality in all conditions
Fluorine coating enhances image clarity
Compact and lightweight for easy portability
Weather-sealed design for durability

8 Best Lenses for Long-Exposure Photography

This section looks at all the best long-exposure lenses in detail. We’ve chosen wide-angle zoom lenses because they give you a wide field of view and versatility.

We’ve included lenses for Canon and Nikon, both DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Our top long-exposure lens recommendations for Sony, Fujifilm, and Olympus OM System cameras can also be found.

1. Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 14-35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) and Air Sphere Coating (ASC), fluorine coating, custom control ring, weather-resistant
Best For	Best For Canon mirrorless cameras

The RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM is the best lens for long exposure if you’re a Canon user. It’s compatible with Canon’s R-range mirrorless cameras. And it’s from Canon’s L Series, meaning it’s one of their top-tier lenses.

You can’t fault the optical quality. LensaAberrations and distortion can be a problem with wide-angle zooms. But you experience very few of either using this lens. That means you get ultra-sharp long-exposure images every time.

Picture quality is given an extra boost thanks to the special lens coatings. This lens has both SWS and ASC lens coatings. These increase light transmission and reduce ghosting and glare.

The outer elements also have a fluorine coating. This protects the glass from water, scratches, and smudges.

An f/4 maximum aperture might not seem like much, especially for an L Series lens. But that’s more than fast enough for long-exposure photography. And the range goes up to f/22, which is great for long-exposure landscapes.

Equipped with built-in optical image stabilization, you can compensate for the slower max aperture. That’s handy if you want to use the lens for other types of photography, broadening the lens’s appeal.

The custom control ring is another useful feature. You can use it to change settings such as aperture, ISO, and white balance, giving you more manual control.

The Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM is a beautiful lens for Canon mirrorless cameras. It’s a versatile wide-angle zoom for a wide range of styles. But it’s our top choice as the best lens for long-exposure photography.

2. Canon EF 16-35mm F/4L IS USM

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Full-time manual focus, 9-blade diaphragm, 2 Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements
Best For	Best For Canon DSLR cameras

Like the RF 14-35mm lens, the Canon EF 16-35mm F/4L IS USM is a brilliant choice for long exposure. But this lens is compatible with Canon DSLR cameras.

The 16-35mm focal length range is perfect for long exposures. The wide viewing angle lets you capture broad scenes. And you have flexibility with the zoom to help compose powerful shots.

Exceptional quality glass is standard in Canon L lenses, and this lens is a great example. It’s constructed of 16 elements in 12 groups. And of those 16, you have one aspherial and two ED elements. That means chromatic aberration and ghosting are practically non-existent.

With an internal focus system, the lens doesn’t expand or contract when refocusing. That is useful for long-exposure photography because you don’t have to readjust your tripod if you change the focus.

The lens also has a full-time manual focus override. So you can refocus manually whenever you need to.

The f/4 to f/22 aperture range is perfect for this type of photography. You usually use something around f/9.5 or f/11, so you have plenty of wiggle room.

Plus, Canon’s USM autofocus system is excellent. And image stabilization is always a bonus in any lens. These features aren’t much of a use for long exposures. But they make the EF 16-35mm F/4L IS USM a versatile and well-rounded camera lens.

3. Nikon Nikkor Z 17-28mm F/2.8

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 17-28 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Internal zoom, weather-resistant
Best For	Best For Nikon mirrorless cameras

If you have a Nikon mirrorless camera, the Nikkor Z 17-28mm F/2.8 is the long-exposure lens you need. As a wide-angle zoom from their ever-growing Z Series of lenses, it’s exactly what you need for pro-level long exposures.

With such a wide field of view, this lens is perfect for sweeping landscapes. The 11mm zoom range gives you more freedom with composition. But something around 24mm is the sweet spot for long-exposure photography. You get a broad scene and sharp corner-to-corner picture quality.

Thanks to the internal zoom system, the lens doesn’t change size when zooming in or out. That means once your camera is mounted on the tripod, you won’t need to rebalance it if you change the composition.

A f/2.8 max aperture is overkill for long exposures. An aperture that wide isn’t necessary. But it does give you excellent versatility. You can use it for long exposures, portraits, and product photography.

A modest level of weather resistance keeps the lens safe in bad weather. It won’t survive heavy downpours, but a bit of drizzle sea spray won’t hurt.

You can use the Nikon Nikkor Z 17-28mm F/2.8 for a wide range of photographic styles. And it should be at the top of your shopping list for long exposures.

4. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm F/4G ED VR

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features 3 aspherical elements, 2 ED elements, Nano Crystal coating
Best For	Best For Nikon DSLR cameras

We have another top-quality wide-angle lens from Nikon. But the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm F/4G ED VR is for their DSLR cameras.

This lens gives you stunning visual quality from Nikon’s premium G range. Unlike inferior wide-angle lenses, you can use this lens at each end of the focal range without experiencing distortion. That gives you even more freedom when composing your shots.

Excellent optical quality is achieved with ED glass and aspherical elements. The results are images free of chromatic aberrations and distortion.

Nikon’s built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) system gives you more low-light exposure control. You probably won’t need it when shooting long exposures. But it’s a useful feature in any lens. The same applies to the fast and reliable autofocus (AF) motor.

You have plenty to work with with an f/4 to f/22 aperture range. You’ll mostly use the narrower end of the scale. But a max f/4 aperture is useful if you want a shallow depth of field.

The AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm F/4G ED VR should be a must-have for any Nikon DSLR user. That’s especially the case if you want to master long-exposure photography.

5. Sony FE 20-70mm F/4 G

Brand	Brand Sony
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 20-70 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Advanced Aspherical (AA) element, manual aperture ring, XD (Extreme Dynamic) AF motor
Best For	Best For Sony mirrorless cameras

Sony mirrorless cameras are excellent for long exposure. But it’s best to have a lens that makes the most of the camera’s high-resolution sensor. The Sony FE 20-70mm f/4 G is that lens.

You know the picture quality is top-notch with a Sony G lens. The overall quality of the glass is excellent. But the lens also contains special AA elements to ensure aberrations are non-existent.

With a wide focal length of 20mm, it gives you the widest angle of any Sony lens for their full-frame cameras. You get an almost panoramic view that works well for long-exposure landscapes.

You also have a wide zoom range, letting you experiment with composition. And it lets you try other types of photography with this lens. It’s also a good choice for videographers.

Setting the right aperture is always important in long-exposure photography. So, many photographers will appreciate the manual aperture ring on the lens. You can change the setting without going into the camera menu. And you can turn the click sound on and off.

Sony’s high-thrust XF AF motor is fantastic. It’s fast, responsive, and quiet. You won’t often need it for this type of photography. But it’s another strength many photographers will appreciate.

As a wide-to-standard zoom lens, the Sony FE 20-70mm F/4 G stands out for its versatility. It’s a brilliant investment if you’re a Sony user. And you definitely won’t regret it if you love taking long exposures.

6. Fujifilm XF 16-80mm F/4 R OIS WR

Brand	Brand Fujifilm
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-80 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features 3 aspherical elements, manual aperture ring, weather-resistant
Best For	Best For Fujifilm cameras

The XF 16-80mm F/4 R OIS WR is the best long-exposure lens for a Fujifilm camera. It’s a high-quality wide-angle zoom lens that fits the brief perfectly.

As Fujifilm’s X Series cameras are APS-C, the effective focal length is slightly different than stated. The 16-80mm focal length equals 24-120mm on a full-frame camera. The higher end won’t be much use for long exposures. But the 24mm end is perfect.

It’s hard to find fault with the build quality. The metal construction feels solid. The barrel is packed with high-quality glass. And there’s a total of 16 elements arranged in 12 groups.

Included in those 16 are three aspherical elements and one Extra-low Dispersion (ED) aspherical lens. That means distortion is kept to an absolute minimum, resulting in images with edge-to-edge sharpness.

Old-fashioned shooters will appreciate the manual aperture ring that lets you change the aperture on the barrel. The f/4 to f/22 aperture range is ideal for long exposures.

The AF motor is super-fast and near-silent in operation. And the optical image stabilization gives you even more control over your exposure settings. You won’t be using these features for long exposures. But they are features that make it a versatile, high-performance lens.

The Fujifilm XF 16-80mm F/4 R OIS WR is your best option for long-exposure photography. It offers excellent value for money even when you buy it brand new. And it’s an investment that improves your creative photography.

7. Panasonic Lumix S Pro 16-35mm F/4

Brand	Brand Panasonic LUMIX
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 16-35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Three aspherical elements, Ultra-High Refractive (UHR) index lens, focus clutch, splash-resistant
Best For	Best For Panasonic full-frame cameras

The Panasonic Pro 16-35mm F/4 is the best long-exposure lens for Lumix shooters. It’s a versatile lens for all types of photography and video production. But we think it’s the perfect choice if you love shooting long exposures.

It’s surprisingly compact for a lens of this quality, considering it contains 12 elements made from super-sharp glass. Of these, you have three aspherical elements and one UHR lens. These give you incredible light transmission, reducing distortion to a minimum.

You can safely use the lens outdoors in tough conditions with such a rugged build. It’s splash-resistant. So you can use it in light rain and by the seashore. It’s dustproof for use in super dry conditions. And it can withstand sub-zero temperatures.

Other interesting features include the speedy AF motor and manual focus clutch. The clutch lets you override the autofocus motor and use manual focus whenever needed.

Again, the Panasonic Lumix S Pro 16-35mm F/4 is also a great lens for video shooters. Panasonic makes excellent hybrid cameras. And this lens is a great option if long-exposure photography is part of a wider creative project.

8. Olympus OM System ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro II

Brand	Brand Olympus
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 12-40 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Weather-sealed, fluorine coating, Zuiko Extra-low Refraction Optical (ZERO) coating, AF clutch
Best For	Best For Olympus OM System cameras

If you use an Olympus or OM System camera, you need the right lens for long exposures. Your best option is the Olympus OM System ED 12-40mm F/2.8 Pro II.

It’s a lightweight, compact zoom lens, perfect for the compact Micro Four Thirds cameras. And the build quality is excellent. It’s one durable lens, being weather-sealed and freeze-proof. You’ll have no problem using it outdoors.

The outer lens element also has a fluorine coating to protect it against scratches and smudges. Other elements have OM System’s special ZERO coatings. This improves light transmission and prevents glare and ghosting.

A f/2.8 aperture is overkill for long-exposure photography. But it’s a huge bonus if you want to use the lens for other pursuits. It gives you a lovely shallow depth of field, which is great for portraits or food photography.

There’s a Lens Function (L-Fn) button near the lens mount. You can apply any specific function or custom setting to this button, giving you a more personalized user experience. This is a great feature if you have specific settings for capturing long exposures.

The ED 12-40mm F/2.8 Pro II is the ideal partner for your Olympus OM System camera. It’s well worth the price. It delivers fantastic results for long exposures, time-lapses, and other types of creative media.

Accessory Guide for Long-Exposure Photography

Finding the best lens for long exposure is important. But it’s only one part of the puzzle. You need a few other camera accessories to get the best long-exposure results. Here’s a quick look at the best camera accessories for long-exposure photography.

Long-Exposure Tripods

A tripod is essential for shooting long exposures. Even dropping your shutter speed down to 1/60 s requires some stabilization. So, if you’re keeping your shutter open for extended periods, you need a sturdy tripod to hold your camera.

A long-exposure tripod needs to be rugged. You’ll be shooting outside, so you need to know the tripod can handle harsh conditions. You don’t want your tripod turning to rust after one trip out.

It’s also best to ensure the tripod is strong enough for your camera and lens setup. You can see the maximum load capacity of a tripod before you buy it, so make sure your setup is well within that limit.

The Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100 Tripod is fantastic for long-exposure photographers. It’s strong enough for most camera setups, allowing for a load of 15.4 lb (7 kg). It’s rugged for outdoor use. And it has good adjustability. So you can mount it on uneven ground.

You can check out our article with the best tripods for time-lapse photography. It’s a similar discipline, and a good tripod will serve both types of photography well.

Best Tripod Head for Long Exposure

There are many tripod heads you can choose from these days. But we recommend a ball head when shooting long exposures.

Tripod ball heads are strong and stable. The tilting and panning movement is ideal for finding the perfect composition when shooting on rough terrain. You can keep the camera mounted at an angle for long periods.

The Neewer Tripod Ball Head is our top recommendation. With a load capacity of 17.6 lb (8 kg), it can hold most camera setups. It gives you a wide range of tilt and pan movement. And it has a built-in bubble level.

We have all the best tripod ball heads in this article. Or, if you don’t want a ball head, you can see all the best tripod heads by clicking the link.

Shot with a Canon EOS 5DS R. 35mm, f/13, 8 seconds, ISO 100. Anders Jilden (Unsplash)

Neutral Density Filters

Neutral density (ND) filters are a must-have for long-exposure photography. When you open your shutter for extended periods, overexposing your image is likely. Even if you’re using the narrowest aperture available, it’s easy to overexpose your image.

ND filters block light without affecting image colors or details. Your camera still renders the colors accurately. But the filter prevents some light from passing through, letting you keep your shutter open longer.

You can get different grades of ND filter. The higher the grade, the less light the filter lets through. The grades are marked by an ND number, like ND1024. An ND1024 filter is also called a 10-stop filter because it gives you 10 stops of compensation.

If you need a filter that strong, we recommend the Cokin Nuances Extreme ND filter. It’s perfect for shooting long exposures in bright daylight.

Read our full article for more of the best neutral density filters. We also have articles on the best graduated ND filters and the best variable ND filters.

Polarizing Filters

A polarizing filter is another useful accessory for long-exposure photographers. They reduce light reflections, improving light transmission through the lens. This gives you sharper detail and improves color saturation in your images.

Polarizing filters (polarizers) are popular with landscape photographers. And they are a great way to improve your long-exposure shots.

The Lee Filters LEE100 Polarizing Filter is the one you need. The optical quality is excellent. And you see a big improvement in image quality after your first shot. Check out our list of the best polarizing filters if you want more options.

Remote Shutter Release

The camera is sensitive to the slightest movement when your shutter is open for long periods. Even pressing the shutter release on the camera can ruin your image. That’s why we recommend using a remote shutter release for long exposure.

With a remote shutter release, you can open and close the shutter without touching the camera. You can also set timers and change other settings. That means there’s no risk of motion blur from touching the camera. You’re guaranteed sharper long-exposure shots.

The Pixel TW-283 E3/N3 is a great choice. It has plenty of controls, letting you work the camera remotely. And it’s reliable and affordable. If that’s not for you, check out our best camera shutter remotes article.

Conclusion: The Best Lens For Long Exposure

A wide-angle zoom makes the best lens for long exposure. And as we’ve seen, it doesn’t matter if you have a Nikon, Canon, or Sony camera. There’s a long-exposure lens for everybody.

The Canon RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM is best our top choice. It has the perfect specifications for long-exposure photography. The optical quality is exceptional. And it’s rugged for outdoor use. It’s easy to see why it takes the top spot.

Our Top 3 Choices for the Best Lens for Long Exposure

Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm F/2.8

Sony FE 20-70mm F/4 G SEL2070G

7 Best Tripods for Landscape Photography

Christopher Bryan-Smith — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:46:31 +0000

With the best tripod for landscape photography, there’s no scene you can’t capture. Whether you’re up a mountain, in an urban sprawl, or on the seashore, a tripod gives you lots more camera control. But which tripod is best for landscape photography?

That’s what we’re going to answer in this article. You’ll see our top recommendations for landscape photography tripods. But we also have a buyer’s guide to help you find the tripod that’s right for you.

The Manfrotto Element MII is our top tripod for landscape photography. It’s a lightweight, portable tripod that’s tough enough for a life outdoors. It’s strong, stable, and versatile. And it’s the perfect tripod for a landscape photographer’s pack.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Tripod for Landscape Photography

Manfrotto Element MII Tripod

Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB 100

K&F Concept Lightweight Travel Tripod

What Is the Best Tripod For Landscape Photography?

The best tripod for landscape photography helps you capture the perfect shot no matter where you are. The life of a landscape photographer can be adventurous, traveling from location to location. And while you need a tripod to get the best results, landscape photography puts demands on your equipment.

You need a strong tripod. Of course, it needs a load capacity suitable for your camera and lens setup. But it also needs to be sturdy and durable. You can’t have a tripod that falls apart after one expedition. You need something that will withstand the rigors of outdoor life.

The tripod’s weight is also important. You need a tripod made of strong materials. But it can’t be too heavy. Your camera backpack is already full of cameras, lenses, and accessories. Adding a heavy tripod is only going to bring you discomfort and exhaustion. That’s why you need to strike the right balance between durability and weight.

We have a full-length buyer’s guide at the end of the article if you want more information. But first, here’s a quick rundown of the best tripods for landscape photography.

Then we look at each tripod in more detail in the following section.

Our Top Choice

Manfrotto Element MII Tripod

Ultra-compact and lightweight for easy transport
Sturdy with an 17.6 lb / 8 kg payload for heavier lenses
Swift setup with quick leg angle switching
Ball head with quick-release head and bubble level

Most Versatile Tripod

Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB 100

Versatile mounting with removable central column
Four settings for leg width
Ball head with 360-degree panning
Built-in bubble level to help you stay level

Most Affordable Tripod

K&F Concept Lightweight Travel Tripod

Weighs only 2.5 lbs / 1.5 kg
Folded height of 15.3 inches / 29 cm
Ball head with degree markings for panoramas
Excellent value product

Best Heavy-Duty Tripod

ARTCISE Carbon Fiber Tripod

Strong yet lightweight carbon fiber frame
Max weight capacity of 44 lbs / 20 kg
Easily adjustable legs with secure twist locks
Rubber feet for extra grip and stability

Best Carbon Fiber Tripod

Sirui AM-254 Carbon Fiber Tripod

Durable carbon fiber construction
26.5-lb maximum load capacity
Ball head with three built-in bubble levels
Rubber feet with retractable spikes

Best Mini Tripod

Sirui AM-223L Mini Travel Tripod

Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry
Incredible 33-lb max load limit
Panning head with 15 degrees of tilting motion
Rubber feet and metal spikes for extra grip

Best Tripod with Carry Case

National Geographic Travel Tripod

Comes with handy carrying case
Versatile tripod with wide working height range
Ball head with panning base and bubble level
Transforms into monopod

7 Best Tripods for Landscape Photography

This section looks at all the best landscape photography tripods in detail. We have lightweight tripods for traveling photographers. There are heavy-duty tripods for photographers with heavy equipment. And we have mini tripods for smaller cameras.

1. Manfrotto Element MII Tripod

Brand	Brand Manfrotto
Material	Material Aluminum
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 3.3 lbs / 1.5 kg
Max Height	Max Height 63 inches / 160 cm
Folded Height	Folded Height 16.7 inches / 42.4 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 17.6 lbs / 8 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Adjustable central column, rubber feet, twist locks, ball head, bubble level
Best For	Best For Landscape photographers looking for a versatile and reliable tripod

The Manfrotto Element MII Tripod is our top recommendation for landscape photographers. It’s a well-built tripod made with durable aluminum, giving you excellent stability for your camera. And it’s versatile enough for any outdoor environment.

Weighing only 3.3 lbs / 1.5 kg, it doesn’t add too much heft to your pack. And despite its light weight, it can safely hold a load much heavier than itself. You can use this tripod with a camera and lens combos weighing up to 17.6 lbs / 8 kgs. Mirrorless cameras are no problem. But it can also support full-frame DSLR cameras without issue.

The Element MII is equipped with a handy ball head, which is great for landscape photography. It allows you to pan 360 degrees and tilt in all directions. And thanks to the built-in bubble level, you can always achieve a perfect horizontal alignment.

Each leg has three sections you can adjust to raise or lower the tripod. The max height of 63 inches / 160 cm is sufficient for most photographers. And by mounting reverse mounting the central pole, you can mount your camera upside down. This helps you shoot from lower angles.

The rubber feet give you extra grip on any surface, such as grass or wet rocks. And the quick-release plate makes it easy to mount and dismount your camera. It also comes with a handy carry bag, making it easier to transport.

The Manfrotto Element MII Tripod is a good investment for any landscape photographer. It offers excellent value for money. And it’s a piece of equipment you can use time and time again.

2. Vanguard Alta Pro 2+

Brand	Brand Vanguard
Material	Material Aluminum
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 5.3 lbs / 2.4 kg
Max Height	Max Height 68 inches / 173 cm
Folded Height	Folded Height 29 inches / 73 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 15.4 lbs / 7 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Quick-release plate, multi-angle central column, twist locks, bubble level
Best For	Best For Photographers looking for a tripod with lots of mounting options

The Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ is one of the most versatile tripods for landscape photographers. Thanks to its ingenious design, you have a wide range of mounting options. And it’s a strong and durable piece of kit.

It is one of the heavier tripods, weighing 5.3 lbs / 2.4 kg. That does mean a bit more weight to carry. But it still folds down to 29 inches / 73 cm, making it easy to lug around with you.

It’s also strong, with a maximum load capacity of 15.4 lbs / 7 kg. That’s strong enough for anything from compact cameras to medium-format cameras. You can even use larger landscape photography lenses.

The removable central column is this tripod’s unique selling point. You can mount it vertically, like a standard tripod. And you can adjust it for height, moving it up and down. But you can also remove the column and remount it at diagonal angles. This gives you incredible versatility when it comes to mounting. It’s great on any terrain.

You also have good versatility when positioning the legs. There are four options, allowing you to spread the legs to 20, 40, 60, or 80 degrees. The widest angle allows you to get a really low mounting position.

The legs can also be adjusted for height, with twist locks making it easy to change and fix the position.

You get even more flexibility with the ball head. You can rotate the camera 360 degrees horizontally when mounted. And you can tilt the head in any direction. But it comes with a bubble level to help you keep your camera flat. The friction control also allows you to control the amount of movement you get from the ball joint.

With an Arca-type quick-release plate, it only takes a second to mount or remove your camera. That’s handy if you’re in cold conditions or wearing gloves.

The Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ isn’t a budget tripod. But it is worth every penny of the price tag.

3. K&F Concept Lightweight Outdoor Tripod

Brand	Brand K&F Concept
Material	Material Aluminum
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg
Max Height	Max Height 64 inches / 163 cm
Folded Height	Folded Height 15.3 inches / 29 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 17.6 lbs / 8 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Ball head, quick-release plate, flip locks, bubble level
Best For	Best For Landscape photographers on a tight budget

The K&F Concept Lightweight Outdoor Tripod is a great product at a great price. The build quality doesn’t quite match some of the pricier tripods. But you get a strong, stable, and lightweight tripod at a decent price.

All the main sections are made of lightweight but durable aluminum. And it folds down to 15.3 inches / 29 cm and weighs only 2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg, making it easy to carry in your hiking backpack.

Each leg is made up of three sections, which you can adjust easily with the flip locks. You can have a mounting height range from 20.4 to 64 inches / 52 to 163 cm. And the ball head gives you even more mounting versatility.

The ball joint has a U-shaped groove, allowing you to mount your camera vertically. Shooting landscapes in portrait orientation can make interesting compositions. And the degree rulings on the base of the head help you shoot sweeping landscape panoramas.

Keeping the camera perfectly aligned is easy, thanks to the built-in bubble level. And mounting the camera only takes seconds with the quick-release plate.

The max load capacity is stated as 17.6 lbs / 8 kg, but we’d aim lower to be safe. Even so, it’s still strong enough for most interchangeable lens cameras. You can use anything from APS-C to full-frame cameras.

The K&F Concept Lightweight Outdoor Tripod is affordable yet durable. It proves you don’t need the most expensive equipment to shoot stunning landscape photography.

4. ARTCISE Carbon Fiber Tripod

Brand	Brand ARTCISE
Material	Material Carbon fiber
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 3.7 lbs / 1.6 kg
Max Height	Max Height 57.5 inches / 146 cm
Folded Height	Folded Height 22.8 inches / 58 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 44 lbs / 20 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Twist locks, rubber feet
Best For	Best For Photographers using heavy equipment

The ARTCISE Carbon Fiber Tripod is perfect if you use heavy camera equipment. It’s solid and robust, which is great for working outdoors. But it’s also light enough for hiking, so you can reach the best vistas for breathtaking landscape shots.

This tripod is incredibly strong, with a max capacity of 44 lbs / 20 kg. That’s more than enough even for medium-format cameras. It allows you to add extra photography accessories if you need them. And even then, you’ll struggle to hit the payload limit.

It isn’t the tallest tripod. With all the legs fully extended, the maximum height is 57.5 inches / 146 cm. This is enough for most photographers, as height isn’t always important when shooting landscapes. You also have a minimum height of 21 inches / 55 cm.

You can easily adjust the height and reposition the legs using the twist locks. And thanks to the rubber seals, grit and dirt can’t get into the joints. This helps stability and longevity. Each leg also has a rubber foot, giving you more grip on any terrain.

The ARTCISE Carbon Fiber Tripod doesn’t come with a tripod head, so you will have to buy one separately. But it’s the strongest tripod on the list and one of the best heavy-duty tripods on the market.

5. Sirui AM-254 Carbon Fiber Tripod

Brand	Brand Sirui
Material	Material Carbon Fiber
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 4.7 lbs / 2.1 kg
Max Height	Max Height 51.2 inches / 130 cm
Folded Height	Folded Height 21.3 inches / 54 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 26.5 lbs / 12 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Rubber feet, twist locks, ball head, bubble level
Best For	Best For Landscape photographers looking for a portable and versatile carbon fiber tripod

If you need a rugged tripod that can withstand life outdoors, look no further than the Sirui AM-254 Carbon Fiber Tripod. It’s strong, robust, and versatile. It’s a good investment for any adventurous landscape photographer.

The main structure is made of durable carbon fiber. It isn’t the lightest tripod on our list, weighing 4.7 lbs / 2.1 kg. But it can carry a load weighing up to 26.5 lbs / 12 kg. That’s strong enough for full-frame or medium-format cameras with plenty to spare.

It also folds down to a convenient 21.3 inches / 54 cm. That makes it easy to strap to your backpack when you’re heading to your next location.

With the ball head, you get an excellent range of motion when the camera’s mounted. You can also lock the camera in the vertical position using the U-shaped groove. It also has several locking mechanisms, so the camera never slips out of position.

You can also rotate the tripod head 360 degrees thanks to the panning base. This allows you to make adjustments without demounting and remounting the camera. And it makes it easier to shoot panoramic landscapes. It also has three built-in bubble levels for precision framing.

Adjusting the legs is easy with the twist locks. And the feet give you excellent grip thanks to the rubber feet and retractable spikes.

The Sirui AM-254 is one of the best carbon fiber tripods. And it’s a great choice for outdoorsy landscape photographers.

6. Sirui AM-223L Mini Travel Tripod

Brand	Brand Sirui
Material	Material Carbon Fiber
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 1.3 lbs / 620 g
Max Height	Max Height 14.2 inches / 36.2 cm
Folded Height	Folded Height 9 inches / 23 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 33 lbs / 15 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Bubble level, rubber feet, metal spikes, twist locks
Best For	Best For Photographers in need of a strong mini tripod

If you want something small and portable, you should consider the Sirui AM-223L Mini Travel Tripod. It’s small enough for any camera backpack. And it has an incredible load capacity for its size.

Made of strong and lightweight carbon fiber, it’s portable yet durable. It measures only 9 inches / 23 cm when folded down and weighs just 1.3 lbs / 620 g. It’s perfect for travel.

But despite its size, it’s one of the strongest tripods on this list. It can hold a load of anything up to 33 lbs / 15 kg. That means no camera is too heavy, even with a large lens. And thanks to the low center of gravity, there isn’t much danger of it toppling over.

The tripod has an adjustable head. It pans 360 degrees and has 15 degrees of tilting motion in all directions. The bubble level also helps you keep the camera flat on uneven ground.

You can easily adjust the height of the legs with the twist locks. And the feet have rubber stoppers or metal spikes.

The maximum height is 14.2 inches / 36.2 cm. And by spreading the legs out wide, you can shoot from a super low angle. You can mount as low as 3.3 inches / 8.4 cm.

The Sirui AM-223L is one of the best mini tripods. And it’s definitely the best mini tripod for shooting landscape photography. And considering the build quality and strength, it’s well worth the price.

7. National Geographic Travel Tripod

Brand	Brand National Geographic
Material	Material Carbon fiber
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 3 lbs / 1.3 kg
Max Height	Max Height 62 inches / 158 cm
Folded Height	Folded Height 15 inches / 38 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 17.6 lbs / 8 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Carrying case, ball head with panning base, rubber feet, bubble level
Best For	Best For Landscape photographers looking for a versatile tripod with its own carry case

National Geographic is more famous for its magazines than its photography equipment. But the National Geographic Travel Tripod is an excellent choice for landscape shooters.

With a robust carbon fiber build, it’s a durable option for traveling photographers. It’s lightweight at just 3 lbs / 1.3 kg. And it folds down to 15 inches / 38 cm and fits in its own convenient carry case.

It’s a versatile tripod with a max mounting height of 62 inches / 158 cm. And the 5-section legs with twist locks make it easy to find the perfect working height when shooting. You can also extend the central column for additional height if needed.

You can use heavy full-frame cameras with this tripod. It can safely support any load up to 17.6 lbs / 8 kg. But you’ll struggle to reach that limit with standard camera gear.

You get even more versatility with the ball head. You can rotate the camera 360 degrees when mounted. And you get a wide tilting motion in all directions. It also has friction knobs for more stability and control. And there’s a built-in bubble level for precision alignment.

You can also use the National Geographic Travel Tripod as a monopod. Monopods are not a popular choice with landscape photographers. But it adds another level of versatility to an already handy travel tripod.

Buyer’s Guide—Best Tripods for Landscape Photography

Finding the best tripod for landscape photography isn’t always easy. That’s why we’re providing even more information to help you find the best tripod. We answer some of the most frequently asked questions on the topic. The answers will give you the knowledge you need to choose the right tripod for you.

Why Use a Tripod for Landscape Photography?

Not all photographers use a tripod. Street photographers need to be quick on their feet, for example. They need to move around and react quickly to the world around them. And street photography camera settings don’t require the extra stability you get from a tripod.

Sports photographers also want stability. But they also need to move and reposition themselves. That’s why they like to use monopods.

But tripods are vital in landscape photography. Landscape is all about composition, so you need to take your time setting up the shot. Also, landscapes move at a glacial pace, so you don’t have to worry about mountains moving or rivers changing direction.

The best camera settings for landscape photography also require more stability. When shooting landscapes, you need a deep depth of field. And to achieve a deep depth of field, you need to use a narrow aperture. This ensures your entire scene is in focus, from the foreground to way far away.

But using a narrow aperture affects your other exposure settings. Of course, you also want to keep your ISO as low as possible. That means you have to sacrifice shutter speed.

But we all know using a slow shutter speed increases the risk of motion blur. That’s why you need to increase stability with a sturdy tripod when shooting landscape photography.

What to Look For in a Tripod for Landscape Photography

Now that we know why you need a tripod, let’s look at the key features you need to look out for in a landscape photography tripod.

Weight – Often, landscape photography involves adventurous expeditions into the great outdoors. And when you’re setting off on a photography hike, you don’t want the burden of heavy equipment. That’s why you need a light tripod for landscapes.

Size – You don’t want a tripod that is too big. The best way to carry a tripod is to strap it to your camera backpack, so you don’t want a tripod that’s much bigger than the pack. You might even want to go for a tripod that fits inside your backpack.

Build Materials – While you want a light tripod, it still needs to be strong. That’s why it’s best to look for aluminum or carbon fiber tripods. Both materials offer excellent strength while being lighter than other options.

Aluminum tripods are often lighter than carbon fiber ones. But carbon fiber tripods are stronger and have a bigger load capacity.

Aluminum and carbon fiber are also great for working outdoors. They don’t rust. And you can use them in wet weather without issue.

Maximum Load Capacity – You need to know the tripod can hold your gear safely and securely. That’s why you need a tripod with a max load capacity well above the weight of your camera. Thankfully, modern mirrorless cameras are fairly lightweight. But you need to consider the lens and other accessories too.

It’s also worth buying one well above what you need in case you upgrade your camera. That way, you won’t need to upgrade your tripod as well.

Flexibility – When you’re out in the wild, finding a level space for shooting is next to impossible. That’s why you need a tripod with flexible mounting options. Adjustable legs are important. But you should also look out for other handy features, like removable columns or spreadable legs.

What Is the Best Type of Tripod Head for Landscape Photography?

There are three types of tripod head that are great for landscape photography. You have ball heads, 3-way pan and tilt heads, and panoramic tripod heads.

Ball Heads

Ball tripod heads have a ball joint that connects the main tripod to the camera mount. This joint allows for small movements in a variety of directions. You can move the camera around in a panning motion when mounted. And you can tilt in all directions.

The tilting is useful when working on uneven ground. It means you don’t have to get the legs perfectly level for a perfect shot.

It also means you can mount your camera vertically. Using a portrait orientation isn’t common in landscape photography, but it does add versatility.

See our full list of the best ball tripod heads.

Three-Way Pan and Tilt Heads

Three-way pan and tilt heads allow you to pan and tilt the camera in any direction. They have two or three tilting joints, allowing you to find level shooting in any environment. They give you more security than a ball head when mounted on harsher angles.

They are better for larger and heavier cameras. And they give you more control over the mounting position than ball heads. They are the best for precision camera mounting.

Check out our full article on the best 3-way pan and tilt tripod heads.

Panoramic Heads

Panoramic heads give you excellent panning control. They don’t always give you much tilting control. But they are perfect for shooting sweeping panoramic images.

The best panoramic heads have degree markings and bubble levels built in. This makes it easier to construct your panoramic compositions. You’ll spend less time stitching them together using photo editing software.

For more info, check out our full article on the best panoramic tripod heads.

How to Set Up Your Landscape Tripod

Setting up a tripod isn’t rocket science, but there are a few tips you should know to ensure you get the maximum stability from your tripod.

Always extend the larger sections of the legs first.
Fully extend the legs first. Raise the central column only if you need extra height.
When setting up the tripod on soft ground, put a flat stone or similar object under each foot to distribute the weight onto a larger surface area. Some manufacturers offer optional feet with larger surface areas.
Make sure the tripod is set up securely before you mount the camera.
To further stabilize your tripod, attach your backpack to the bottom of the tripod to give the tripod some weight. Make sure your backpack is still touching the ground and not swinging in midair. This is the reason why some tripods have a little loop near the central column.

Conclusion: The Best Tripod For Landscape Photography

With the best tripod for landscape photography, a photographer’s life is a whole lot easier. When you know the tripod is up to the job, you can focus on getting the best results. You don’t need to worry about it falling apart. You don’t have to waste time setting it up or fiddling about with it. Using a tripod for landscape photography is simple and easy.

The Manfrotto Element MII Tripod is our favorite tripod for landscape photography. It’s durable, portable, and easy to use. It’s strong enough for most cameras. And we know it can survive expedition after expedition, so it’s a long-term investment.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Tripod for Landscape Photography

Manfrotto Element MII Tripod

Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB 100

K&F Concept Lightweight Travel Tripod

10 Best Tripods for Photographers in 2024 (Best Camera Tripods)

Jenn Mishra — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 08:50:57 +0000

Some photography tasks are impossible without a good camera tripod. Image stabilization and high ISOs don’t solve everything. From landscape to product photography, a good tripod is essential.

We’ve selected some of the best tripods available at various prices. That range is from very affordable to extremely expensive. Our top pick is the Manfrotto BeFree Advanced. It is super-compact but has an impressive load capacity and a tall, maximum height.

Our Top 3 Choices for the Best Camera Tripod

Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod

K&F Concept Lightweight Aluminum Tripod

Peak Design Travel Tripod

What Is the Best Camera Tripod?

We think the best tripod for photographers is the Manfrotto BeFree Advanced. But there is always a payoff when choosing a tripod. The most stable ones, used by TV news crews, are absurdly heavy and bulky. The smallest, lightest ones will struggle to keep your camera steady.

We’ve chosen tripods that balance those two ends of the spectrum. Before we examine each of them in detail, here is a summary of our recommendations.

Our Top Choice

Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod

Easy setup and transport
Innovative leg angle selector
Quick power lock lever
Lightweight and compact
Supports up to 8.8 lb / 4 kg

Best Lightweight Tripod

K&F Concept Lightweight Aluminum Tripod

360-degree panorama head with bubble level
Durable aluminum alloy legs
Quick-release leg locks
Lightweight and portable
Maximum load of 17.6 lb / 8 kg

Best Travel Tripod

Peak Design Travel Tripod

Quick-release plate for easy mounting
Durable aluminum construction
Easy-to-adjust locking mechanisms
Compact and lightweight
Supports cameras up to 8.5 lb / 3.9 kg

Best Intermediate Tripod

MeFoto RoadTrip Classic Lightweight Tripod and Monopod

Adjustable legs, reversible center column
Sturdy construction for various environments
Quick-release leg locks, built-in bubble level
Very lightweight and compact for travel
Converts to a monopod

Best Premium Tripod

Really Right Stuff Ascend 14 Long Travel Tripod

Adjustable torso length
Durable aluminum frame
Full-size comfort and support
Lightweight and compact
Compatible with TQC-14 Quick-Change Camera Plate

Most Innovative Tripod

3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 Carbon Fiber Tripod

Lightweight and durable carbon fiber construction
Easy to set up and dismantle
360-degree panorama, ball head for max flexibility
Includes phone and camera mount attachments
Supports up to 11 lb / 5 kg of equipment

Best for Precise Adjustments

Benro Mach3 Carbon Fiber Tripod: TMA38CL

Includes ball head and carrying case
4-section legs for easy adjustment
Quick-release leg locks
Lightweight and durable carbon fiber construction
Supports up to 22 lb / 10 kg

Most Versatile Premium

Gitzo Carbon Fibre Tripod Kit for DSLR & Video Cameras

63.4” / 163 cm max hieght and 19.7” / 50 cm minimum
4-section legs and adjustable head angle
Lightweight and durable carbon fiber construction
Includes carrying bag and quick release plate
Load capacity of 17.6 lb / 8 kg

Best Entry-Level Carbon Fiber

Neewer 66″ Carbon Fiber Tripod and Monopod

Quick setup
Adjustable height
360-degree ball head
Lightweight and durable
Converts to a monopod

Best-Value Intermediate

Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100 Tripod

Sturdy aluminum construction
Adjustable legs and center column
Quick-release leg locks
Bubble level indicator
Supports up to 15.4 lb / 39 kg

10 Best Tripods for Photographers

Let’s examine what we’ve chosen in more detail. Then, you can decide which has the perfect features for your needs.

1. Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod

Brand	Brand Manfrotto
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 59.5 inches / 151 cm
Weight	Weight 3.5 lb / 1.6 kg
Maximum Load	Maximum Load 17.6 lb / 8 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 15.8 inches / 40 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Compatible with Arca-Swiss and Manfrotto plates
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for an affordable and compact tripod

The Manfrotto BeFree Advanced is one of their most popular tripods. Manfrotto is a quality tripod brand with offerings in all price ranges. The tripod is lightweight and quick to set up.

The legs are in four sections. And you can twist or lever locks. The locking levers are Manfrotto’s QPL Lever Lock system used on their professional-level tripods. You can adjust the legs independently at different angles, and the tripod converts to a monopod.

The tripod comes with a Manfrotto 494 Center Ball Head. It has easy adjustments with ergonomic and independent controls. The one thing missing from this model is a bubble level. The tripod plate is compatible with both Arca-Swiss and Manfrotto quick-release plates.

This camera tripod includes a “spider” feature that lets you add accessories like lights or reflectors to the tripod.

The BeFree tripod is made of carbon fiber or aluminum. It has a limited load capacity but easily supports mirrorless and smaller DSLR camera systems. The black tripod has red or blue accents and a light carrying case.

2. K&F Concept 64-Inch Tripod

Brand	Brand K&F Concept
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 62.2 inches / 158 cm
Weight	Weight 2.8 lb / 1.3 kg
Maximum Load	Maximum Load 22 lb / 10 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 18.5 inches / 47 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Arca-Swiss compatible, quality carrying case
Best For	Best For Anyone on a tight budget or looking for a travel tripod

The K&F Concept 64″ is a popular lightweight budget aluminum tripod. It is one of the lightest and least expensive tripods on our list. Despite the price, it has a quality feel and works well.

The legs are in three sections with quick flip leg locks. The legs can be angled independently for uneven terrain.

The camera tripod has a 1.1-inch (28-mm) large ball head designed for stability. It holds 10 kg, which is okay for most cameras and lenses. But it may struggle with a weighty telephoto lens.

For telephoto lenses, buy a tripod mount ring or a telephoto lens bracket for better balance. It has an Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release plate and a bubble level.

The tripod is black with gold accents and comes with a high-quality bag. If you are on a budget or need an occasional travel tripod, this K&F Concept is a practical place to start.

3. Peak Design Lightweight Aluminum Camera Tripod

Brand	Brand Peak Design
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 60 inches / 152.4 cm
Weight	Weight 3.4 lb / 1.56 kg
Maximum Load	Maximum Load 20 lb / 9.1 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 15.4 inches / 39.1 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Two lockable leg angles, ergonomic ball head
Best For	Best For Anyone wanting a sturdy but very portable tripod

A lot of thought has gone into the Peak Design Aluminum Travel Tripod. It is svelte and sleek with a matte black finish. This aluminum Peak Design travel tripod is one of the highest-rated tripods on Amazon. The more expensive carbon fiber version closely follows this.

The tripod legs have four telescoping sections with lever locks and two lockable angles. This lets you work as low as 5.5 inches (14 cm) off the ground. It’s fast to set up and take down.

It has Peak Design’s unique ergonomic ball head and an Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release plate. A small bubble level built into the head helps you level the tripod.

The ball head swivels freely and is quick and easy to use. But there is no way to lock it to sweep only horizontally, making panoramas difficult. You can switch out the ball head with a universal head adapter. I often change to a gimbal when shooting wildlife.

It is not just that this Peak Design Tripod folds up to one of the smallest on the list, but the diameter is also compact. The entire tripod is about the same size as a water bottle. Everything is streamlined with no protruding knobs.

The tripod also comes in a waterproof soft case of the same quality as Peak Design’s coveted bags.

4. MeFoto RoadTrip Classic Lightweight Aluminum Travel Tripod

Maximum Height	Maximum Height 60 inches / 152.4 cm
Weight	Weight 3.6 lb / 1.6 kg
Maximum Load	Maximum Load 17.6 lb / 8 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 15.4 inches / 39.1 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Converts easily into a monopod, Arca-Swiss compatible
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a decent lightweight mid-level tripod

The MeFoto RoadTrip Classic Lightweight tripod is one of the brand’s most popular. There is also a regular carbon fiber version. (You can also get a Pro aluminum version or a cheaper, regular aluminum tripod).

The classic tripod is compact and lightweight enough for traveling or hiking. And it sets up quickly and folds away into a carrying case.

The tripod has five leg sections and an anti-rotation twist lock system. This design lets you set up the tripod fast in all weather conditions.

The legs can be angled independently for flexibility and locked into place at two different angles. You can detach one leg and remount the center column to turn it into a monopod.

The MeFoto has a triple-action Q-series ball head and an Arca-Swiss compatible plate. The head has 360-degree panning and separate knobs controlling tension.

The MeFoto tripods are an antidote to the boring black metal tripods. They come in a host of fun metallic colors. The hardest part about ordering this tripod may be choosing a color.

Some professional photographers use a MeFoto because it does not look like a typical tripod. And you can always find it in a crowd! It looks like a fashion accessory but functions like a pro.

The tripod legs flip up for storage. And it comes with a nice carrying case.

If you’re buying your first tripod, the MeFoto Roadtrip Classic is a great place to start. If you want a slightly heavier camera tripod, go with a MeFoto GlobeTrotter Classic.

5. Really Right Stuff Ascend 14

Maximum Height	Maximum Height 61.3 inches / 156 cm
Weight	Weight 3.19 lb / 1.4 kg
Maximum Load	Maximum Load 30 lb / 13.6 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 18.6 inches / 47 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Arca-Swiss ball head, low minimum working height of 5.1 inches / 13 cm
Best For	Best For Anyone willing to pay top money for a quality tripod

The Really Right Stuff (RRS) Ascend 14 is an all-in-one carbon fiber travel tripod. The long version provides extra working height yet still compacts into a backpack.

The legs have four sections and twisting lock mechanisms. Four angle-stop positions let you independently position the legs for the most flexibility.

The head is an integrated Arca-Swiss ball head. It is recessed into the legs and tucks away for the smallest profile. The head can be removed and replaced with a universal adapter. This lets you mount a different head on the tripod. (There is also an Ascend 14 that comes with a ball head)

You can remove part of the center column to lower the tripod to the ground. The minimum working height is only 5.1 inches (13 cm).

RRS is the gold standard for camera tripods and accessories for many professional photographers. But quality comes at a price. The Ascend 14 is the most expensive offering on our list, which is the only detail I don’t like.

6. 3 Legged Thing Leo Kit 2.0 Carbon Fiber Tripod System

Brand	Brand 3 Legged Thing
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 57.7 inches / 147 cm
Weight	Weight 3.4 lb / 1.5 kg
Maximum Load	Maximum Load 66 lb / 30 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 14.7 inches / 37.4 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Telescopic central column, available without head
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for an innovative mid-range tripod

The 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 is a mid-priced ultra-compact professional-level travel tripod. If you are looking for a tripod, you cannot go wrong with one from 3 Legged Thing. You can find a 3 Legged Thing tripod in all price ranges.

It is incredibly modular and flexible. This carbon fiber tripod is one of the lightest on our list but has the most load capacity at 66 lb (30 kg). You can mount any piece of photography equipment to this tripod!

The center column is telescopic, like the legs. You can expand it vertically when you need extra height and compact it down again when you don’t. You can detach all three legs, making this a handy tabletop tripod. The legs can also be used as a monopod or a boom arm.

It includes six one-quarter-inch and one three-inch threaded holes for mounting many accessories. It comes with a ball head. But you can order the Leo tripod legs separately.

The Leo is in the mid-price range. But 3 Legged Thing has less expensive tripods. If you are buying your first camera tripod, try the popular Patti.

You can order the Leo in metallic slate grey or earth bronze color, and it comes with a nice carrying bag. The build quality on this tripod is exceptional. Amazingly, something so small and compact can handle a heavy camera system.

7. Benro Mach3 Carbon Fiber Tripod

Brand	Brand Benro
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 69.7 inches / 177 cm
Weight	Weight 6.4 lb / 2.9 kg
Maximum Load	Maximum Load 35.3 lb / 16 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 23.2 inches / 59 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Available in carbon fiber and aluminum, geared head, two different length center columns
Best For	Best For Photographers looking for precise adjustment and stability

The popular Benro Mach3 Tripod is only the legs. But pair it with Benro’s top-selling GD3WH 3-way geared head, and you have a winner. This is for photographers who need stability and precision adjustments.

The tripod is solid and sturdy with a quality feel. The Mach3 comes in carbon fiber or the less expensive aluminum versions. You have the option of ordering the tripod with three or four sections. The four-section version is more stable. There is even an extra-long option if you need a taller tripod.

The tripod comes with both a long and a short center column. The short column is just 2.5 inches (6.35 cm). This lets you get very low to the ground when you splay the legs wide. The legs can be adjusted independently and have twist locks with magnesium castings.

The head has 3-way independent movement and individual release controls. It has an Arca-Swiss compatible plate and three bubble levels for precise leveling.

This head moves slower than a ball head, but you get precision. If you’re looking for a ball head instead of a geared head, try the Benro Triple-Action Ball Head with PU60 Quick-Release Plate.

This is one of the heavier camera tripods on the list, especially with the geared head. Combined, the system weighs 6.4 lb (2.86 kg). But that is a plus when you need extra stability. If you want a lightweight travel tripod, check out Benro’s MeFoto options.

The Mach3 is black with blue accents and has a dust cover and case. This combination is one of the more expensive options on our list. But you can rest assured that you have one of the best tripod combinations on the market.

8. Gitzo Carbon Fiber Tripod Kit

Brand	Brand Gitzo
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 69.7 inches / 177 cm
Weight	Weight 5.8 lb / 2.6 kg
Maximum Load	Maximum Load 28.7 lb / 13 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 26.6 inches / 67.6 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Three-way magnesium head with fluid damping
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a top-quality versatile tripod, whatever the cost

The Gitzo Mountaineer is a winner if you want a quality tripod with more weight and stability. This is a professional tripod for landscape photographers who value stability over everything.

Gitzo is a high-end tripod company with a large selection. Some are priced in the thousands for the legs only. But many photographers swear by the brand.

The Mountaineer has carbon fiber legs. You can buy the tripod legs only or as a kit. The legs have a choice of three or four sections. They have twist locks and a leg angle selector for quick and easy setup.

The Mountaineer comes in Series 1, 2, or 3. It is of different heights and can carry a variety of loads. If you need a taller camera tripod to handle heavier equipment, try the Mountaineer series 3.

This Gitzo Tripod Kit has a three-way fluid head of ultra-lightweight magnesium for precise shots. It has an independent fluid cartridge for each axis that smooths the movements. The kit also has an Arca-Swiss-compatible rubberized plate with a quick-release mount.

Gitzo tripods are not cheap. But you pay for the brand and the quality of the design.

9. Neewer 66-Inch Carbon Fiber Tripod With 360 Ball Head

Maximum Height	Maximum Height 66.1 inches / 168 cm
Weight	Weight 3.8 lb / 1.7 kg
Maximum Load	Maximum Load 26.5 lb / 12 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 18.1 inches / 46 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Converts to a monopod, four-section legs
Best For	Best For Beginners looking for a lightweight tripod

If you want a carbon fiber tripod on a budget, look at this Neewer 66″ Carbon Fiber Tripod/Monopod. Neewer is a well-known third-party camera accessories brand. This is one of the best tripods for beginners.

This camera tripod is surprisingly solid and well-built for the price. It has four segments with smooth twisting locks. And you can independently reposition the legs for flexible shooting.

Remove the rubber feet to expose spikes for more stability on sandy or icy terrain. You can also detach one leg as a monopod or a hiking pole.

It has a 360-degree ball head and an Arca-Swiss compatible plate with a bubble level. But the tripod is not as light as other carbon fiber tripods. This is partly because the head is aluminum.

The company recently released an upgraded version of its popular tripod. It is a little heavier than the older version but has more load capacity. The upgraded version is slightly shorter but folds up more compactly.

The black tripod has red accents and a lightweight nylon carrying bag. This Neewer carbon fiber tripod is one of the best you can buy at this price.

10. Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100 Tripod

Maximum Height	Maximum Height 68 inches / 172.7 cm
Weight	Weight 5.4 lb / 2.4 kg
Maximum Load	Maximum Load 15.4 lb / 7 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 28.2 inches / 71.6 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features 180-degree swinging center column, Arca-Swiss compatible head
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for an affordable intermediate tripod

The Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB is one of the taller camera tripods on our list at 68 inches (172.7 cm). But it is not the most compact when folded.

This tripod has an extremely flexible center column. You can move the hexagon-shaped center column through various vertical and horizontal positions. Then, lock it into place with a swivel and lock system. This is great for studio and macro photography, where you may work with awkward angles.

It has three aluminum alloy legs with flip locks that adjust independently at three angles. The tripod feet have retractable spikes under the non-slip rubber feet.

This version of the tripod comes with an SBH-100 ball head. The head comes with an Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release plate and bubble levels. You can order the legs with different heads, including a pan head and one with a grip.

The Vanguard Alta Pro aluminum tripod is one of the heaviest on our list. But you can order it in a lightweight carbon fiber version. The tripod is black with orange accents and comes with a carrying case.

Best Tripod Buyer’s Guide

I cannot tell you how confused I was when I started looking for a tripod. Experienced photographers around me swore by major brands like Manfrotto, Gitzo, and 3 Legged Thing. But each brand makes dozens of different tripods.

Even looking at tripods from one company did not narrow down my search. I bought my first tripod almost randomly. It ended up being a good buy, but that was sheer luck.

Choosing a Camera Tripod

Choosing the best tripod is daunting. There are so many options, and they vary drastically in price. Some photographers use inexpensive tripods. Others pay thousands!

Let’s look at the features that distinguish tripods. The best camera tripod is the one that works for you. No matter your budget or gear, you will find the best tripod.

Do You Need a Tripod?

First, do you need a tripod? Many photojournalists, travel photographers, and street photographers do not use a tripod. But for landscape photographers, a tripod is a constant companion. It goes with them everywhere.

You need a tripod if you photograph at slow shutter speeds. Landscape photographers use longer shutter speeds to take photos in low light, like at night or when the sun is below the horizon. They also sometimes use long shutter speeds to blur water or clouds.

Camera tripods are also essential when taking time-lapse videos and panoramas. Studio photographers may also need a tripod to lock in a composition.

Macro photographers may need a tripod to take many shots of their subjects with different focus points. Later, the images are blended or focus stacked in post-processing. The subject mustn’t move between exposures.

The best camera tripod depends on the type of photography you do. The best travel tripod is light and compact. But the best tripod for video may be heavier and allow the camera to pan and move smoothly.

A tripod is essential when shooting at night.

Main Features of a Tripod

Like people, tripods come in different heights and weights and have different strengths. The best tripod is largely a matter of personal preference and based on your type of photography. To help you narrow down the choices, let’s look at the features of a tripod from head to foot.

Price

Of all the camera accessories, tripods vary the most with price. You can buy a mini phone tripod for a couple of bucks. At the other end are top-of-the-line tripods priced well into the thousands.

You can get a good tripod at different price points. Some photographers are happy to spend more if it means having more stability. Others would rather put their money into a camera body or lenses. We’ve included a selection of expensive, mid-price, and more budget tripods.

Height, Weight, and Strength

Tripods can be small tabletop affairs, but we focused on tripods set up on the ground for this review. They can reach at least 48 inches (122 cm) tall. The best tripod height brings your camera to eye level when you stand.

If you are tall, you will want to consider a taller tripod. But you also want a tripod that will go low. Some tripods do not have a center column, or the center can be removed. This allows the tripod to be almost at ground level.

Photographers who travel and hike with their camera gear value lightweight tripods that fit in a backpack or camera bag. But lighter is not always better. A tripod with extra weight is more stable if you work in windy conditions.

The Wandrd Prvke camera backpack with several tripod holder options

Studio photographers do not move their tripods far. They may prefer the more stable, heavier tripods. The weight of a tripod somewhat depends on the materials used to make it.

Carbon fiber tripods are lighter and stronger than standard aluminum. But they are also more expensive.

Load capacity is how much weight the camera tripod can support. This is important if you have heavy camera gear. A big DSLR and fast telephoto lens can add up in weight.

Make sure you get a sturdy tripod that can carry the load. If you work with lighter mirrorless systems, load capacity isn’t as much of an issue. Travel photographers and hikers also want to know how small a tripod folds for packing into backpacks or suitcases.

Camera Tripod Head

In this review, I focus on tripod kits. A kit includes both the legs and the head. Most budget and mid-priced tripods only come as kits. Some higher-end tripods sell legs and heads separately.

On all the tripods reviewed here, the head detaches from the legs. You can easily change or upgrade to a different tripod head.

A good camera tripod head should move easily, but hold your camera in place firmly. You do not want a head that is difficult to adjust or one that slowly moves with the weight of your camera. And you do not want one that drops your camera!

Ball Head

A ball head is the most common type of tripod head. Ball heads hold the mounting plate and swivel freely when you release the tension. Many photographers find this type of head the most flexible. Ball heads let you quickly move your camera in any direction.

There are other tripod head options, though. For instance, a three-way head gives more precise movements but is slower to adjust. There are also panoramic tripod heads. Wildlife photographers often use a camera gimbal.

The Benro Triple-Action Ball Head

Quick-Release Mounting Plate

When searching for camera tripods, you will probably run across the term “Arca-Swiss.” Arca-Swiss is a system that allows you to quickly mount your camera on a tripod. It’s two pieces. There is a plate with side grooves that screws into the bottom of your camera.

The plate fits into a clamp on the tripod, holding it in place. Tripods that are Arca-Swiss compatible fit any Arca-Swiss plate.

Arca-Swiss is the most common type of quick-release mounting system, but it is not the only one. Manfrotto tripods have a quick-release system.

Photographers who use tripods a lot often mount an L-bracket to their cameras. This has Arca-Swiss grooves on both the side and the bottom. This lets you easily switch from landscape to portrait orientation. L-brackets are specifically made to fit your camera body.

Center Column

Most tripods also have a center column that holds the tripod head and can be extended for extra height. This makes the tripod less stable, so most photographers only extend the center column in a pinch.

The best tripods tighten the center column with a twisting lock. Avoid camera tripods that raise the center column with a crank mechanism. Cranks are slow, and the mechanics can fail.

Many tripods let you reverse the center column and mount the head underneath. This hangs your camera upside down, letting you shoot at a low angle.

On other tripods, you can remove the center column for low-angle shots. Sometimes, you can insert the center column at an angle to the tripod. This works more like a boom.

Center columns sometimes have a hook underneath to hang photography sandbags or a camera case. This adds more weight and stability to the tripod.

A camera bag hanging from the Peak Design Travel Tripod‘s center column

Camera Tripod Legs

Tripods, by definition, have three legs. Usually, these are in three, four, or five telescopic sections that give you control over the tripod’s height. You can extend all the sections or just one or two.

The legs lock into place with either a lever or a twist lock. Many photographers find lever locks faster to set up.

With the twist-lock system, you release the leg by twisting the lock. Then, you twist them in the opposite direction to tighten them. Twist locks are fine if they do not need more than a half turn to loosen and retighten the legs.

The best tripods let you independently adjust the legs at different angles. This lets you stabilize your camera on uneven surfaces. For instance, you can have two legs in the regular position, and one splayed out, supported by a wall or fence.

Some camera tripods have support structures between the legs. These structures add stability but limit flexibility. When collapsed, the legs may swing up over the head to save space. Some have a detachable tripod leg that can be used as a monopod.

Camera Tripod Feet

At the tip of the legs are rubber or plastic feet. Sometimes, the material is non-slip to keep your tripod from slipping on wet or icy surfaces.

The camera tripod may have metal spikes under the rubber, or you may be able to attach optional spikes. Use spikes to keep your tripod stable on wet or soft surfaces.

Tripod leg detail on our top pick, the Manfrotto BeFree Advanced

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Tripod for Your Needs

Whatever your main need for a camera tripod is, there’s one for you. Let’s say you want to make money from food photography. You will need a sturdy tripod. But it probably won’t need to be as stable as if you’re outdoors in the wind taking long-exposure landscapes.

Our top pick is a great compromise between value and features. The Manfrotto BeFree Advanced copes with most situations very well. And because it is so portable, you are more likely to carry it.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Tripod

Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod

K&F Concept Lightweight Aluminum Tripod

Peak Design Travel Tripod

12 Best Video Tripods in 2024 (Photography & Videography)

Christopher Bryan-Smith — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 15:18:09 +0000

Having the best video tripod will revolutionize the way you make movies. Filming will be easier. You’ll be able to get better shots. And there will be an increased level of professionalism in everything you do. Video tripods are a must-have item for aspiring filmmakers.

The Manfrotto Befree Advanced camera tripod is the best video tripod. The fluid head gives you smooth and steady panning. It has two handles for complete control of your video camera. And it can support cameras and equipment up to 14.6 lb (6 kg). It’s the best tripod for videographers.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Video Tripod

Manfrotto Befree Advanced Camera Tripod Kit

Coman Heavy Duty Fluid Head Tripod

3 Legged Thing: Patti

What Is the Best Video Tripod?

You need to look for several elements in a good video tripod. First is the build material. Aluminum or carbon fiber are the best options for strength and durability. Plus, you need to know it has the right weight capacity for your camera and gear.

The head is also an important part of a video tripod. Ball and fluid heads are your best bet. They allow for smooth tilting and panning. And they give you smooth, shake-free footage.

Using a poor-quality tripod will be a waste of time and money. So if you need more information on what to look for in video tripods, skip to the buyer’s guide at the end of the article.

Here’s a quick rundown of the best video tripods. Keep scrolling to see each video tripod in more detail.

Our Top Choice

Manfrotto Befree Advanced Camera Tripod Kit

Versatile for various shooting angles
Dual handles give you full control of tilt and pan movements
Quick-release flip locks on legs for quick adjustments
Supports up to 13.2 lb / 6 kg
Lightweight and compact design

Best for DSLRs

Coman Heavy Duty Fluid Head Tripod

Heavy-duty fluid head for smooth panning and tilting
Quick-release plate for easy setup and removal
Height-adjustable aluminum legs with spiked feet
Supports up to 6.6 lb / 3 kg of equipment
Non-slip rubber feet for added stability

Best for Creative Filmmaking

3 Legged Thing: Patti

Modular functionality for experimental shooting
Up to 180° leg angle for creative shots
Height adjustable from 12 to 56" (0.3 to 1.4 m)
Maximum load of 22 lb / 10 kg
Lightweight and compact design

Budget Pick

GEEKOTO Camera Tripod

Heavy-duty aluminum alloy construction
360° panorama and bubble-level design
Extendable height limit of 77" / 1.95 m
Supports up to 17.6 lb / 8 kg of weight
Compact and lightweight design

Best for Beginners

NEEWER 74″ Pro Video Tripod with Fluid Head

Smooth, fluid drag head for tilting and panning
Adjustable tilt and pan
Quick-release plate
Non-slip rubber feet
Lightweight and durable

Best for Travel

Manfrotto Befree Travel Video Tripod

Smooth and accurate control
Leveling ball joint for precision composition
Flip lock leg joints for quick and reliable adjustments
Excellent weight capacity for a travel tripod
Lightweight and compact Design

Best for Mirrorless Cameras

Cayer BV25LH Video Tripod

Excellent stability with the mid-level spreader
Reversible center column for low angle shooting
3-position adjustable leg angle locks
Supports up to 13.2 lb / 6 kg of camera gear
Lightweight and durable aluminum construction

Best 2-in-1

Neewer 2-in-1 Video Tripod and Monopod

Versatile 2-in-1 design
Quick-release flip locks
Adjustable height up to 74.8" / 1.9 m
Non-slip rubber feet
Lightweight and portable

Best for Content Creators

Joby GorillaPod 3K Kit

Universal compatibility with all cameras
360° panning and 90° tilting with the ball head
Flexible and durable aluminum legs
Supports up to 6.6 lb / 3 kg
Compact and lightweight design

Best Heavy Duty

3 Legged Thing: Nicky

Innovative Tri-mount system for stability
Versatile base for added support
5-section legs for adjustable height
Maximum load capacity of 40 lb / 18 kg
Premium-grade aluminum alloy construction

Best for Studio Filming

SmallRig AD-01 Video Tripod

Multi-angle adjustable legs
Quick-release plate for easy setup
Durable aluminum construction
Supports up to 6.6 lb / 3 kg of gear
Compact and lightweight for portability

Best for Smartphones

Aureday Smartphone Video Tripod

Compatible with most smartphones
Vari-angle head with control handle
Built-in Bluetooth remote for wireless shooting
Can be used as a selfie stick
Portable and lightweight

The Best Video Tripods in 2023

Our list includes video tripods for all types of videographers and situations. We’ve included heavy-duty tripods for big shoots. We have compact tripods for small-scale productions.

And no matter what your budget is, we’ve included tripods from all areas of the price spectrum.

1. Manfrotto Befree Advanced Camera Tripod

Brand	Brand Manfrotto
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Folded Height	Folded Height 15.7 inches / 40 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 59.4 inches / 1.5 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 13.2 lb / 6 kg
Head Type	Head Type Fluid head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Dual handles, 3-section legs, quick-release flip locks
Best For	Best For Mirrorless and DSLR cameras, travel videographers

Manfrotto has built a reputation as a company that makes high-quality camera gear. And the Manfrotto Befree Advanced 3-way tripod kit is the perfect example. It’s strong, sturdy, portable, and convenient to use. But it tops our list because it’s designed for video makers.

The Manfrotto fluid head is the top feature of this video tripod. It gives you smooth panning and tilting in three directions. The movement is so smooth you can move the tripod head while filming. You’ll have a silky shot with no jerks or jolts.

The three handles on the fluid head give you complete control. They fold flush with the tripod when you’re done, making it easy to carry.

You can also lock the head into a vertical position. This is ideal for interviews, vlogging cameras, and portrait photography businesses. And the vertical format is perfect for social media videos.

It’s a strong aluminum tripod. It can hold a maximum payload of 13.23 lb (6 kg). That’s enough for a mirrorless camera or DSLR with a large lens. But you need a stronger tripod for professional video cameras.

The tripod legs are easily adjusted using quick-release clips. And you can adjust each tripod leg individually on uneven surfaces.

The Befree Advanced is a 3-way travel tripod perfect for shooting video. It’s strong yet lightweight. And the Manfrotto fluid head makes filming a breeze. It isn’t a budget tripod. But it offers excellent value for money.

2. COMAN Heavy Duty Fluid Head Tripod

Brand	Brand Coman
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Folded Height	Folded Height 35.4 inches / 90 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 74 inches / 1.88 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 17.6 lb / 8 kg
Head Type	Head Type Fluid head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Bowl head base, knob height adjusters, mid-level spreader
Best For	Best For Heavy cameras and video setups

The Coman heavy-duty fluid-head tripod is popular with photographers and video makers. Coman has taken a no-thrills approach to the design. And the result of that strategy is a strong and reliable video tripod.

It isn’t the lightest video tripod on the list. But it’s a sturdy piece of equipment. The tripod legs are made of aluminum alloy tubes. They’re hollow yet strong, so the weight is manageable.

It also has a mid-level spreader. It stops the legs from collapsing in, adding extra stability. And the rubber feet prevent slippage on smooth surfaces.

The Coman tripod also has a fluid video head. It gives you a fantastic range of motion. And it has a dampening system, giving you more control over panning and tilting.

You can also counter-balance the fluid head against the camera when it’s attached. That means no unexpected movements while filming. And it also has a quick-release plate, so there’s no time wasted.

This Coman tripod can hold up to 13.2 lb (6 kg). That’s strong enough for a heavy setup with a large DSRL, a big lens, and extra gear.

You can raise the outer leg tubes to increase the tripod’s height. And you can set your camera as high as 74 inches (1.88 m). This is plenty for most video shooters. Plus, the tripod head handle allows easy control even when it’s above you.

3. 3 Legged Thing: Patti

Brand	Brand 3 Legged Thing
Build Material	Build Material Magnesium alloy
Folded Height	Folded Height 17.7 inches / 45 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 64 inches / 1.6 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 22 lb / 10 kg
Head Type	Head Type Ball head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Flip locks, adjustable central column, modular functionality
Best For	Best For Vari-angle, experimental videos, heavy cameras

“Patti” by 3 Legged Thing is one of their smaller tripods. But it’s no less rugged and tough. This company knows what they’re doing. And they have some excellent video tripods. Patti is one of their best if you want a well-priced, portable tripod that carries a heavy load.

The three tripod legs are made of magnesium alloy, giving you a strong construction. And each leg has four sections that can be adjusted for height.

The flip locks make adjusting the height quick and easy. And they allow you to get a tight grip without hurting your hand or the tripod leg.

The center column can also be adjusted, giving excellent height control. It supports a video camera to a height of 64 inches (1.6 m). You can also remove the center column for handheld shots.

At the top, you’ll find a ball head with a quick-release plate. The ball head gives you nearly 360 degrees of motion for panning and tilting. It’s smooth and has options for tightening when you want to reduce movement.

We are disappointed there’s no handle or fluid head attachment included. But 3 Legged Thing’s Patti folds down to a convenient 17.7 inches (45 cm). And its 3.4 lb (1.5 kg) weight isn’t too troublesome.

But despite her portable nature, Patti can bear a heavy load. It takes anything up to 22 lb (10 kg). That includes pro-level mirrorless video cameras, DSLRs for video, and professional video cameras.

Buying separate fluid heads is an issue. But it’s a high-quality tripod for shooting videos and taking photos.

4. GEEKOTO Camera Tripod

Brand	Brand GEEKOTO
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Folded Height	Folded Height 19.5 inches / 49.5 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 77 inches / 1.95 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 20 lb / 9 kg
Head Type	Head Type Fluid head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Quick-release plate, tilt-locking knob, detachable handle
Best For	Best For Tighter budgets, sports and wildlife photography

GEEKOTO is another company building a reputation for reliable and affordable camera equipment. And if the GEEKOTO camera tripod is anything to go by, you can also trust their gear. It’s durable and functions well. And it’s a versatile video tripod with an affordable price tag.

The aluminum legs offer excellent support. The maximum load is 20 lb (9 kg). That’s enough for professional DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. And it supports cameras with telephoto lenses, making it one of the top photo tripods for wildlife and sports photographers.

The GEEKOTO video tripod is equipped with a fluid ball head and handle. You can adjust the tightness of the ball head joints for custom control over your camera. And the handle gives you smooth 360 degrees of panning and more than 180 degrees of tilt.

The legs are easily adjusted using quick-release flip locks. And the tripod folds away nicely. It’s only 19.5 inches (49.5 cm) when compacted. And it weighs just 3.1 lb (1.4 kg). That makes it a handy travel tripod for globe-trotting video makers.

5. Neewer Fluid Drag Head Video Tripod

Brand	Brand Neewer
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Folded Height	Folded Height 28 inches / 71 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 61 inches / 1.5 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 13.2 lb / 6 kg
Head Type	Head Type Fluid head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Mid-level spreader, double-tandem leg design, removable rubber feet
Best For	Best For Beginner videographers and cinematographers

Neewer makes excellent entry-level and mid-range video equipment for media creators. And the Neewer video tripod is a fantastic choice for first-time buyers. It’s a reliable piece of video gear with an affordable price tag.

The fluid video head and quick-release plate steal the show. The head has a built-in bubble level to help you navigate the horizon line. And you have dampening controls so you can adjust the ease of movement.

The handle allows smooth pan-and-tilt control while filming. The camera plate is compatible with photo and video cameras. And it’s one of the smoothest quick-release plates on the market.

The legs are composed of aluminum poles designed for stability and vibration reduction. And the flip locks on the leg sections allow you to change the height at any moment.

The aluminum tripod legs have a wide footing with a mid-level spreader for added support. And the flexible rubber feet provide grip on any surface or terrain.

The Neewer video tripod supports gear up to 13.2 lb (6 kg), enough for mirrorless cameras and video cameras. And the head also has the option to attach sliders, jibs, and other accessories.

It weighs 8.1 lb (3.67 kg), so it’s not the most lightweight option. But it does come with a carry bag for easy transportation.

6. Manfrotto Befree Travel Video Tripod

Brand	Brand Manfrotto
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Folded Height	Folded Height 15.7 inches / 40 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 59.4 inches / 1.5 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 8.8 lb / 4 kg
Head Type	Head Type Fluid head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Leveling ball joint, padded handle, carry case
Best For	Best For Travel videography and photography

This Manfrotto travel video tripod is best for video makers suffering from wanderlust. It’s compact, portable, and lightweight. But it still offers excellent support for traveling videographers.

The tripod weighs just 1.75 lb (793 g), so it’s a lightweight piece of kit. But it doesn’t have the biggest max payload. It can only carry a total of 8.8 lb (4 kg). But that is enough for the best travel cameras and camcorders.

It folds down to 15.7 inches (40 cm). And the Manfrotto carrying bag also makes it easy to carry when you’re on the move. It gives you a max height of 59.4 inches (1.5 m). That’s a convenient height range for most travelers.

The aluminum legs are easily adjusted using flip locks. And there’s a lock on each leg section to get the exact height you want.

The head has both ball and fluid head technology. The lower joint is a half-ball joint that rotates smoothly. This gives you excellent leveling control. Then you have the fluid video head at the top for more pan and tilt movement. And it has a leveling bubble and a removable pan bar.

All these features combine to make this Befree tripod the best video tripod for travelers. If you’re on the road a lot, you can check out our full list of the best travel tripods. And if you’re really into travel photography, check out our Next Stop: Travel Photography e-book.

7. Cayer BV25LH Video Tripod

Brand	Brand Cayer
Build Material	Build Material Carbon fiber
Folded Height	Folded Height 35 inches / 89 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 74 inches / 1.8 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 13.2 lb / 6 kg
Head Type	Head Type Fluid Head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Locking rubber buckles, dual handles, mid-level spreader
Best For	Best For Enthusiast-level filmmakers

The Cayer BV25LH video tripod is another versatile tripod video creators will love. It gives you a strong and sturdy platform to work from. And it has a fantastic fluid head for controlled movement when filming. It’s an excellent piece of camera equipment at a reasonable price.

The fluid video head is the key to this tripod’s popularity. It has a built-in bubble level, so you know when you’re perfectly level. And it has a fantastic range of movement. You have 360 degrees of panning. And there are +90 to -70 degrees of tilting motion.

You can lock the fluid head in any position. And the two pan bar handles give you the control you need while filming.

The tripod has strong carbon fiber legs. They are durable tubes you can slide up and down to adjust the height. And each leg has two twist locks to keep them in place. And a mid-level spreader adds extra stability, preventing the legs from collapsing.

The Cayer video tripod isn’t the lightest. It weighs 8.6 lb (3.9 kg), so it’s not an ideal travel tripod. But it has a maximum payload of 13.2 lb (6 kg). This is strong enough for photography and video cameras.

And you get an excellent height range, with the maximum height at 74 inches (1.88 m). That’s plenty for most filmmakers.

8. Neewer 2-in-1 Video Tripod and Monopod

Brand	Brand Neewer
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Folded Height	Folded Height 18 inches / 45.7 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 70.8 inches / 1.8 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 17.6 lb / 8 kg
Head Type	Head Type Fluid head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Monopod functionality, quick-flip locks, quick-shoe connection
Best For	Best For Sports, wildlife, travel, and press videographers

The Neewer 2-in-1 video tripod is one of the most versatile ones on our list. It’s a strong and stable tripod for static shots. But it transforms into a monopod to give you more mobility options when shooting. Travel and sports filmmakers will enjoy the dual-purpose features.

Each tripod leg has three sections. And each is easily adjusted using the flip locks. Changing the height takes seconds. And they’re all tough and lightweight aluminum tubes.

One of the legs can be attached directly to the pan-and-tilt head. You then have a fluid head monopod, allowing you to move quickly from shot to shot. The monopod pole also has a padded grip for comfort and support.

The fluid video head gives you 360 degrees of panning. And you also have +90 to -70 degrees of vertical tilting movement. And the locks allow you to tighten or loosen the head as much as you need.

There’s an easy-mount and release plate for your camera. And the bubble level helps you achieve the perfect composition.

It’s a strong tripod that supports 17.6 lb (8 kg) worth of gear. And that’s the same in tripod and monopod mode. But you will want a lighter load when using it as a monopod. You don’t want to damage your gear.

The Neewer 2-in-1 video tripod is versatile and affordable. Because it doubles as a monopod, it’s ideal for video creators who are always on the move.

9. Joby GorillaPod 3K

Brand	Brand Joby
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Folded Height	Folded Height 11.8 inches / 30 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 11.8 inches / 30 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 6.6 lb / 3 kg
Head Type	Head Type Ball Head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Flexible legs, rubber feet
Best For	Best For Content creators, vloggers, and streamers

The Joby GorillaPod 3K is the best video tripod for content creators and streamers. It’s a small yet versatile tripod perfectly suited to creating content for social media. You can create vlogs for Instagram or YouTube.And you can live stream on YouTube or Twitch.

The flexible legs are the unique selling point of the GorillaPod. They provide steady support on any surface. And they give you lots of mounting options.

You can position it on a surface as you would a standard tripod. But thanks to its flexible legs, you can attach it to posts or tree branches. This gives you incredible filming options.

The ball head gives you 360 degrees of panning and a wide tilting range. This means you can get a flat shot even when the GorillaPod is attached to a tree. It also gives you smooth movement if you’re panning during a shot.

It’s a small tripod with a max height of only 11.8 inches (30 cm). This makes it easy to carry. But it also means you can use it as a tabletop tripod. And this suits the filming setup of many streamers and vloggers.

Lastly, its weight capacity (6.6 lb / 3 kg) is enough for many of the best vlogging cameras. So, all in all, the Joby GorillaPod is perfect for video content creators. And it’s one of the better-priced video tripods on our list.

10. 3 Legged Thing: Nicky

Brand	Brand 3 Legged Thing
Build Material	Build Material Carbon iber
Folded Height	Folded Height 23.2 inches / 59 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 61.4 inches / 1.56 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 130 lb / 60 kg
Head Type	Head Type None
Other Key Features	Other Key Features 3-section detachable legs, anti-rotation locks, bowl mount
Best For	Best For Heavy camera setups and cinema cameras

This video tripod from 3 Legged Thing is called “Nicky.” It’s a quirky name, but it doesn’t tell much about the product. It’s a strong tripod with a carbon fiber construction. In fact, it’s one of the strongest tripods on this list.

It has a maximum load capacity of 130 lb (59 kg). That’s more than strong enough for a DSLR or mirrorless camera. And you can use telephoto lenses with no issue. That makes it a useful tripod for wildlife cameras and astrophotography cameras.

The three carbon fiber legs have four leg sections for changing height. When fully extended, they give you a maximum height of 61.41 inches (1.56 m).

Each leg can be adjusted individually using the leg lock. And the legs have anti-rotation shims, so there’s extra grip and no unwanted movement. Plus, the detachable rubber feet give you stability on uneasy surfaces.

Despite the extended height and load capacity, Nicky is a portable tripod. It weighs 5.29 lb (2.4 kg). And it folds down to a handy 23.22 inches (59 cm). That isn’t the smallest tripod. But the difference in folded and extended height is impressive.

3 Legged Thing’s Nicky comes with a flat mount with a screw head to fix the camera in place. Stability isn’t an issue. But the base plate offers no pan and tilt movement. You can buy attachable tripod heads and plates, sold separately.

11. SmallRig AD-01 Video Tripod

Brand	Brand SMALLRIG
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Folded Height	Folded Height 35.4 inches / 90 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 74 inches / 1.88 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 17.6 lb / 8 kg
Head Type	Head Type Fluid head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Quick-release plate, mid-level spreader, carry case
Best For	Best For Beginners and studio filming

SmallRig offers another contender for the best video tripod. And it’s worth considering if you have a tight budget. The SmallRig AD-01 video tripod is ideal for entry-level filmmakers working in a studio.

The tripod head is compatible with most cameras. And the two quick-release plates work with DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Plus, it supports gear up to 17.6 lb (8 kg). So it’s also strong enough for professional camcorders and extras.

The aluminum tripod is topped with a fluid video head. The head has built-in damping and balance controls. So you can shoot smooth panning shots without unwanted movements.

And it gives you a fantastic range of movement. You get 360-degree panoramic shooting. And the vertical movement is generous too.

The tripod legs are aluminum tubes. They’re easily adjusted using flip locks. And you can shoot high up at 74 inches (1.88 m). But you can also spread and lower the legs for low-angle shots.

The middle spreader provides extra support at any height. So there’s no risk of your rig collapsing mid-shoot.

This tripod from SmallRig is a handy option on the video market. It is heavy, weighing 10.8 lb (5 kg). But the carry bag makes traveling to and from a shoot much easier. It’s a heavy-duty, affordable video tripod for video makers.

12. Aureday Smartphone Video Tripod

Brand	Brand Aureday
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Folded Height	Folded Height 18.8 inches / 46 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 67 inches / 1.7 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 2.2 lb / 1 kg
Head Type	Head Type Vari-angle head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Smartphone holder, shutter remote, head handle
Best For	Best For Smartphones

The Aureday video tripod is the best video tripod for smartphones. Whether you’re a vlogger, content creator, or streamer, it gives you the stability you need. And with the vari-angle head, you have complete creative control.

The tripod is topped with a smartphone holder. This can hold any smartphone between 2.8 and 4.8 inches (7 and 12.2 cm). This is the perfect size for most Android phones and iPhones.

You also get an excellent range of movement from the vari-angle head. You have a good range for tilting and panning. And the locks allow you to film vertically. This is perfect for producing specialist content for Instagram or TikTok.

The three legs can spread out wide to give you a stable platform. And the central pole is telescopic. It’s made of four sections. And each section can be adjusted, giving you unlimited height options.

The tripod also becomes a selfie stick when the legs are folded, and the center is outstretched. This is ideal for filming on the go. And it’s a lightweight tripod weighing only 1.9 lb (900 g). So it’s very easy to transport and take with you, which will please travel vloggers.

Finally, it comes with a handy camera remote. So you can get the camera rolling without touching your phone. Ultimately, the Aureday video tripod is the best option for smartphone movie makers.

Buyer’s Guide to Find the Best Video Tripod

Now let’s look at some of the important aspects of video tripods. We’ll give you all the info you need to make an educated purchase. That way, you can find the best video tripod to meet your needs. (Read about our best mirrorless video cameras if you need an upgrade.)

What Is the Best Video Tripod Material?

Look for a video tripod with an aluminum or carbon fiber construction. It should be strong and have a good build quality. A cheap plastic tripod could break mid-shoot, which would be a disaster.

Both materials give you the sturdy base you need to work on. You won’t have to worry about them collapsing or breaking while filming. Carbon fiber is the lighter of the two materials. But carbon fiber tripods tend to be more expensive than aluminum tripods.

Why Is Maximum Weight Capacity Important?

You need to know the tripod can take the weight of your gear. If the tripod isn’t strong enough, you’re putting your equipment and production at risk. It could be a costly error. That’s why you must be aware of the tripod’s maximum weight capacity before buying.

Video recording setups can be heavy. You have to consider the weight of your camera. But you also have to calculate the combined weight of all accessories. You’ll have a lens attached. And you might have a video microphone, lights, and an external camera screen on your camera rig.

You must be certain the video tripod can support all of it.

Why Is Maximum Height Important for Video Tripods?

More height gives you more options when you’re shooting. You can take a higher angle and still have the stability you need. And it also helps if you’re a tall filmmaker. Using a tripod that’s too small will hurt your back and neck.

You might want a compact tripod for easy transportation. That’s no problem, but you must ensure the tripod has a maximum height that meets your filming needs.

What Is the Head Type for Video Tripods?

The type of tripod head is another important consideration. The head determines the range of movement when the camera is attached.

A pan-and-tilt head is fine for many. But a ball head gives you a greater range of movement. The latter uses a ball joint to connect the head and the tripod’s body.

Fluid heads give you the best range of movement and are ideal for video tripods. A good fluid head gives you 360 degrees of panning motion. That’s a full panoramic range of motion. And it’s best to have a +90 to -90 degree motion for tilting.

Fluid heads get their name from the liquid lubricant inside. The fluid creates a smooth motion when you move the head.

You can change the shooting angle and pan during a shot without jerky movements with a fluid head. They’re ideal for video creation. But the fluid can freeze in subzero temperatures.

Which Camera Plate Is Best for a Video Tripod?

A standard camera plate is fine if you have a smaller video setup. It’s enough to hold the weight if you use DSRL or mirrorless cameras. And a quick-release plate is also a handy time-saver. But you need a video camera plate for larger video cameras.

A video plate is larger, allowing for more weight in your setup. And it distributes the weight evenly, so there’s less pressure on the tripod head.

Conclusion: The Best Video Tripod

There are some excellent video tripod options in 2023. You have your pick of aluminum and carbon fiber tripods. You can choose a ball or fluid head for making sleek and professional videos. And there are some tripod-monopod combos for restless shooters.

There’s no bad option on our list of the best video tripods. But we think the Manfrotto Befree Advanced is the best video tripod. It’s a strong and reliable piece of equipment. And the versatile fluid head is exactly what you need for sleek and professional videos.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Video Tripod

Manfrotto Befree Advanced Camera Tripod Kit

Coman Heavy Duty Fluid Head Tripod

3 Legged Thing: Patti

9 Best Polarizing Filters in 2024 (Updated)

Jenn Mishra — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 10:17:21 +0000

Many photographers overlook polarizing filters. Their purpose is often mysterious, and the results are difficult to define. But polarizing filters are a secret weapon for landscape photographers. They reduce reflections and enhance colors. But don’t let landscape photographers have all the fun!

Our top polarizing filter recommendation offers drop-in simplicity, multi-coating, and a clam-shell case.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Polarizing Filter

Lee Filters LEE100 Polarizing Filter

Tiffen 77CP Circular Polarizer

Nikon 82mm Circular Polarizer II Filter

What is the Best Polarizing Filter?

We’ve chosen ten of the best polarizing filters on the market. But before we look at the details of each one, here is a summary of why we like them.

Our Top Pick

Lee Filters LEE100 Polarizing Filter

Eliminates glare and reflections
Enhances color saturation
Protects lens from dust and scratches
Clam shell case for easy storage
Compatible with LEE100 filter system

Best Budget Buy

Tiffen 77CP Circular Polarizer

Excellent value for money
Lightweight
Improves clarity and contrast
Reduces glare and reflections

Best Nikon Polarizing Filter

Nikon 82mm Circular Polarizer II Filter

Enhances color and contrast
Reduces reflections on glass and water
Protects lens against dust, dirt, and scratches
Compatible with 82mm lenses
Lightweight and durable

Best Color Neutrality

Marumi 77mm DHG Circular Polarising Filter

Enhances color and contrast
Reduces reflections and glare
Multi-coated for improved clarity
Slim frame for wide-angle lenses
Water and oil repellent

Most Environmentally-Friendly

Urth 77mm CPL Lens Filter

Reduces glare and reflections
Enhances color saturation
Increases contrast and clarity
Multicoated glass for protection
Slim frame design for easy use

Best Magnetic Mounting System

Kase Wolverine 77mm CPL Filter

Premium quality optical glass
Nano coating technology
Water and oil repellent
Easy-to-install adapter
Ultra slim frame design

Best Combined UV and Polarizing Filter

Hoya Evo 77mm CPL Polarizer Filter

Enhances colors and contrast in photos
Creates deep blue skies and lush green forests
Reduces glare and reflections
Protects lens from dust, dirt, and scratches
Ultra-slim filter frame for easy use

Best Budget Choice

K&F Concept 77MM CPL HD Filter

High quality CPL filter for HD photography
28 layers of multi-resistant coating
Ultra-slim frame for wide-angle lenses
77mm diameter fits most DSLR lenses
Durable aluminum-alloy construction

Best Mid-Range Filter

Breakthrough Photography Polarizing Filter

Professional grade glass
Multi-resistant coating
Waterproof and scratchproof
Enhanced color and contrast
Slim profile, lightweight

Now let’s look at them in some more detail, starting with our top pick.

1. Lee Filters LEE100 Polarizer, Clam Shell Case

Brand	Brand Lee Filters
Fitting Type	Fitting Type Slot-in
Multicoating	Multicoating Yes
Key Features	Key Features Fits the Lee 100 folder
Best For	Best For No expense spared flexibility

If you are in the market for a top-of-the-line filter system and don’t mind the cost, check out the Lee100 Polarizer. This filter works with the Lee100 filter holder, purchased separately. This filter is made from lightweight, high-transmission polarizing glass. This gives subtle warm tones.

You can buy the filters in the shape of a circle or square. And both work with the Lee100 filter holder. But you cannot rotate the square polarizer. The square filter is best used in a studio where you have control over the lighting.

2. Tiffen 77CP Circular Polarizer

Brand	Brand Tiffen
Fitting Type	Fitting Type Screw
Multicoating	Multicoating No
Key Features	Key Features 10-year guarantee
Best For	Best For Trying a polarizing filter without too much expense

Tiffen makes a range of budget-friendly circular polarizers. Some have better light transmission for low-light situations. Others are designed for wide-angle lenses. They also offer a warming filter with a yellow tint. You can also choose between a circular and a linear polarizer.

This entry-level filter is made from aluminum and is one of the top-rated filters on Amazon. It is a good filter to start with if you want to try a circular polarizer without spending much money. The filter has no anti-glare or protective coatings. This may make it more susceptible to breakage. But Tiffen’s 10-year warranty gives you some peace of mind.

If you like this filter, Tiffen makes a range of filters. Their top-quality HT filter has high-quality glass and anti-reflective coatings.

3. Nikon 82mm Circular Polarizer II Filter

Brand	Brand Nikon
Fitting Type	Fitting Type Screw
Multicoating	Multicoating Yes
Key Features	Key Features Thin profile aluminum frame
Best For	Best For Those looking for a trusted brand

Nikon’s Circular Polarizer II is one of the top filters on Amazon. This screw-on filter is made by Nikon, but you can use it on any lens. The size offerings are limited and the casing is made from aluminum. But the filter is multi-coated to reduce ghost images and flare. It is marketed as a much thinner and lighter option. This reduces vignetting on wide-angle lenses.

The filter is one of the more expensive offerings on this list. But you are paying for a known brand name.

4. Marumi 77mm DHG Circular Polarising Filter

Brand	Brand Marumi
Fitting Type	Fitting Type Screw
Multicoating	Multicoating Yes
Key Features	Key Features Circular polarizing filter with an aluminum frame
Best For	Best For Color neutrality

If you are looking for a cheaper filter with many features, try the Marumi DHG Circular Polarizer. The filter has eight layers of anti-reflection coatings and is scratch resistant. It is made from low-profile aluminum to avoid vignetting. The filter will block more light than the more expensive models. But the company promises unsurpassed color neutrality.

If you like this filter and want an upgrade, try Marumi’s flagship filter, the EXUS. This filter has 18 layers of coatings for ultra-low reflection that are anti-static.

5. Urth 77mm CPL Lens Filter

Brand	Brand Urth
Fitting Type	Fitting Type Screw
Multicoating	Multicoating Yes
Key Features	Key Features Nanocoating and high light transmission
Best For	Best For Those who value Urth's environmental credentials

Urth, formerly Gobe, is an environmentally conscious company that uses recycled packaging. Urth’s polarizing filters come in the standard (premium) model. Or the Plus+ (professional) model. The company also offers a CPL plus ND filter combination. Gobe’s rebranding created a price increase that upset some customers. The professional filter has high-level features. But it carries a lower price tag than other filters on this list.

The Plus+ filter is German Schott glass with 16 layers of nanocoating. The anti-reflection, true-color coatings remove lens flare and glare. The coatings also protect the filter from scratches and dirt. Light transmission is on par with the higher-priced filters. The slim casing reduces vignetting and is made from an aluminum alloy.

6. Kase Wolverine 77mm CPL Filter w/Adapter

Brand	Brand Kase
Fitting Type	Fitting Type Magnetic
Multicoating	Multicoating Yes
Key Features	Key Features Toughened optical glass
Best For	Best For Frequent changes on and off

Most of the filters on this list are of the screw-on variety. But Kase Wolverine filters use a magnetic system. The filter comes with a magnetic adaptor that screws onto your lens. Once it is installed, the filter pops right on.

You can easily stack a polarizer and multiple neutral density filters. The magnetic system is easy to use. But the filters are not designed to be left on the lens. They will dislodge when hiking. The company also offers a combined CPL and ND filter.

The filter is made from high-quality materials. And it gives high-quality results at a mid-level price range. The filter is made from toughened B270 optical glass. The scratch-resistant coatings repel oil, water, dust, and fingerprints. Kase filters are extremely thin and lightweight.

Sizes are limited. But Kase also offers a magnetic square filter system that works for lenses of various sizes.

7. Hoya Evo 77mm CPL Polarizer Filter

Brand	Brand Hoya
Fitting Type	Fitting Type Screw
Multicoating	Multicoating Yes
Key Features	Key Features Nanocoatings and anti-static treatment
Best For	Best For Superb quality and consistency

Diving into the world of Hoya filters can be confusing. The company has a wide range of circular polarizers. But they also market some filters under different names only in the USA. Similar filters can vary in features.

Hoya has a wide range of filters from which to choose. Their mid-level anti-static circular polarizing filter goes under the name Evo in the United States. But a similar anti-static filter is called Fusion elsewhere.

The filters have 16 or 18 layers of anti-reflective coatings. They are water and oil repellant and have a hardened top layer. Anti-static properties are particularly useful in situations where dust is a problem. All but the largest-sized filters are thin, which reduces vignetting. All Hoya filters have an aluminum casing. They often add an ultra-violet filter into their CPL to block UV light as well.

The price difference between the Evo and the Fusion is considerable. The Fusion is the better deal.

8. K&F Concept 77MM CPL HD 28 Layer Filter

Brand	Brand K&F Concept
Fitting Type	Fitting Type Screw
Multicoating	Multicoating Yes
Key Features	Key Features 28 layers of coating and aviation-grade aluminum
Best For	Best For Photographers on a tight budget

K&F offers three levels of polarizing filters. Each level has a different number of coatings. But even the most expensive comes in as one of the most affordable on this list. It is our pick for the best budget-friendly filter.

The XC CPL filter is packed with features and has 28 layers of coating. The coatings reduce glare and make the filter waterproof and scratch-resistant. The casing is made from an extra-tough aviation aluminum-magnesium alloy. The company also offers a CPL with a variable ND filter.

9. Breakthrough Photography 77mm Polarizer Filter

Brand	Brand Breakthrough Photography
Fitting Type	Fitting Type Screw
Multicoating	Multicoating Yes
Key Features	Key Features High light transmission and polarization guides on the frame
Best For	Best For Minimum light loss

The Breakthrough Photography 4x circular polarizing filter has an ultra-slim brass frame. This eliminates vignetting on wide-angle lenses. The glass is Schott superwhite optical glass with 16 nanocoated layers. And the glass has a high light transmission.

According to its makers, this filter is the sharpest on the market. They also claim it is the most color-neutral polarizer available. The filter has textured edges and polarization guides printed on the side. These help you find maximum polarization. Filters are weather sealed to withstand water, dust, wind, and salt.

You can buy the CPL filter on its own or combined with a 3, 6, or 10-stop ND filter. The company offers a 25-year warranty, adding safety to your purchase.

This filter is attractive to a wide variety of photographers. This is because it has all the features and durability at a mid-level price. The company offers a lower-priced 2x version with slightly lower-quality glass and fewer coatings.

Why Do you Need a Polarizing Filter?

Polarizing filters cut down on glare and reflections on glass. This is valuable when shooting in a city. If you like vibrant colors, a polarizing filter helps. It gives you the deep colors you crave regardless of what you are shooting.

There is a mind-boggling array of polarizing filters that vary wildly in price. Major companies often have a line of polarizing filters with different features. If you have tried shopping for a polarizing filter, you are justified in throwing your hands up in despair.

What Are Polarizing Filters?

A polarizer filter is a piece of specially coated glass that fits onto the front of your lens. It is designed to filter certain waves of light. You may not be familiar with polarizing filters in photography. But you might have encountered polarized sunglasses.

Polarizing filters may screw onto the end or attach with magnets. Or you can buy polarizing filters that drop into a holder fixed to the front of the lens. You can even stack a polarizing filter with other filters.

How Do Polarizing Filters Work?

Polarization has to do with how light waves behave. Most natural light is unpolarized. But when it is reflected or bounced, the waves scatter. This makes it hard for your camera to capture a clean image. Polarizing filters reduce the randomness of the light waves. Filtering the scattered light results in reduced haze, glare, and reflections.

Polarizer filters let you see under the reflections and glare on water, snow, or glass. They also deepen the color and boost contrast in a way that is impossible to replicate in post-processing.

A polarizing filter improves the vibrancy of water and lets you see below the surface. Your sky becomes more vibrant and reduces atmospheric haze. Some vibrancy tools in photo editing programs may be able to simulate contrast and color. But you can’t edit out reflections and glare.

Without a polarizing filter, you’ll never be able to see into a window or photograph the depths of the water.

What to Consider Before Buying a Polarizing Filter

Polarizing filters vary widely in price. The least expensive filter on our list is around 30 USD. The most expensive is over 300 USD.

The higher prices usually reflect build and glass quality. They also have more coatings on the glass. Less expensive filters may cause your photos to have a soft focus or pronounced color tint.

The best polarizing filters balance affordability with quality. Let us look at some of the characteristics that affect the price of a circular polarizer filter.

Linear vs Circular Polarizers

There are two types of polarizers—linear and circular. The name does not have to do with the shape of the filter. Both are often round. The name has to do with the shape of the light hitting your sensor.

Linear polarizers only let in light moving in a vertical or horizontal direction. Circular polarizing filters (CPL) filter the light twice. A CPL is constructed in two parts. The first element is a linear polarizer. The second element—called a “quarter wave plate”—makes the light spin or circulate.

The circular polarizer helps cameras accurately meter light in the scene. It also reduces the effects of a mirror on your camera. Circular polarizers twist. This lets you gradually modify the light waves. You can reduce some reflections while leaving others.

Practically, both polarizing filters do the same job. But circular polarizers are the most common by far. The need for circular polarizers may change as cameras continue to change. If you have a mirrorless camera, the difference may be undetectable. Linear polarizers are generally less expensive.

NiSi 112mm Circular True Color Pro Nano CPL Filter

Color Cast

When choosing a circular polarizer filter, look for high-quality glass with no color cast. Some polarizer filters have a yellow, brown, magenta, grey, green, or blue color cast. “Warm” filters purposefully add a slight yellow color cast. It is pleasing to the eye and counters less attractive tints. You can correct the color cast in post-processing in some cases, so it is not a problem.

Thickness

Another thing to look for in a polarizer filter is vignetting or darkened edges. Thin filters create less of a vignette at wide angles. Thicker filters darken the edges of the image. Thinner filters are also easier to manipulate in the field. They are easier to screw onto your lens.

Light Transmission

Polarizers reduce the amount of light coming into your lens. Filter companies rate the level of light transmission, which is how much light the filter allows. The best polarizing filters have high light transmission. They block only 1 to 1-1/2 stops of light.

Cheaper filters may block up to 3 stops of light. You will have to compensate by increasing the exposure. In most situations, this is not a problem. But if you tend to shoot in low-light conditions without a tripod, you may want to be extra sensitive to this feature.

Some companies combine a circular polarizer filter with a neutral density filter. If you often use an ND filter, this saves you from buying two separate filters and fitting them together.

Inexpensive polarizing filters block up to three stops of light

Glass Quality and Coatings

The number and quality of coatings on the polarizer filter significantly affected the price. Some filters have no coatings at all. The more expensive filters have coatings that reduce glare. They also make the filter scratch-resistant.

They also have coatings that repel water, dirt, dust, and oil from your fingerprints. Some have anti-static coatings. The top-of-the-range filters have coatings that harden the glass. These make the filters nearly unbreakable.

The glass quality and coatings applied can affect image quality. Depending on the quality of your lens, you may or may not see a difference. But if you mount a low-quality filter on a high-quality lens, the image quality diminishes.

Metal Casing

Because polarizers are mainly used by landscape photographers, build quality is a factor. The best polarizing filters are lightweight and protected by a strong, metal casing. The quality of the metal casing determines how easy the filter is to screw onto your lens and the ease of rotation.

The less expensive filters use metals like aluminum. The higher-priced filters tend to be made from brass. Higher-quality filters can resist breaking when dropped. They keep their shape even if used frequently. The lower-quality metals may bend with use.

Filter Size

Filters come in a range of sizes to fit different-sized lenses. The size of the filter affects the cost. Most companies offer filters in a range of standard sizes from 52 to 82mm. The larger filters cost more. When comparing prices, look at filters of the same size. A 58mm filter will seem inexpensive compared to an 82mm filter regardless of features.

When buying a polarizing filter, it is important to know the diameter of your lens. This is measured in millimeters and is usually stamped somewhere on the lens itself.

Mounting System

Most polarizers screw onto the front of your lens. Some have threads on both the back and the front. The front threads let you stack filters.

A few companies use a magnetic attachment to replace the screw-on design. You first screw on a magnetic holder to the front of your lens. Then the magnetized filter pops onto the holder.

Other companies use a drop-in filter design. You first mount a holder onto the front of your lens, then drop the filter into the holder. Magnetic and drop-in filters are easy to attach to your lens. You can add or remove them quickly.

Drop-in filters may be round or square glass. They are often more expensive, partly because you buy the holder separately. But also because the filters themselves are large. The benefit is that this holder will fit on all your lenses regardless of size.

Some companies choose one system exclusively. Others have different lines of filters.

Which Size Filter Should You Buy?

Screw-on and magnetic filters come in many sizes that range from 39 to 105mm. They are designed to fit on lenses of different diameters. This is because most photographers own lenses of varying sizes. Instead of buying filters for each lens, buy a filter to fit your biggest lens. Then, add high-quality step-down rings to use the filter on all your lenses.

Some photographers advocate buying a size larger than your biggest lens. This reduces vignetting at the widest focal length.

The Neewer step-up ring set is a budget-friendly option.

Another quality option is the brass adapter rings made by Breakthrough Photography. These are sold individually rather than as a set.

How to Use a Circular Polarizer

Using a polarizer takes a little practice. The polarizing effect only works when the filter is perpendicular, or at a 90-degree angle, to the light.

Put the polarizer on your lens.
Move your body so the sun lands on your shoulder. This should put the light at a 90-degree angle to your lens.
Slowly twist the polarizer. Remember that polarizers are designed to rotate. This lets you control how much you are polarizing the light. As you twist, you should see reflections or glare begin to disappear.
Keep twisting, and the reflections return.

Many photographers do not see an immediate effect of a circular polarizer and ditch it. There is a level of experimentation that comes with a circular polarizer. The best position and rotation depend on the light in the scene.

Conclusion

The Breakthrough Photography 4x circular polarizer is a great choice as a mid-priced option. If you are on a budget, try the 28-layer K&F XC CPL. If price is no object, the Lee100 drop-in filters are top-of-the-line.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Polarizing Filter

Lee Filters LEE100 Polarizing Filter

Tiffen 77CP Circular Polarizer

Nikon 82mm Circular Polarizer II Filter