Outdoor Photography How To

Wide-angle lenses and, in particular, the popular 16-35mm focal length, are the tools of the trade for landscape photographers. But just having a wide-angle lens does not mean you will shoot great landscape photos.

You sometimes need, according to pro shooter Mads Peter Iversen, a step-by-step plan. In the below video, Iversen offers "5 steps to make powerful 16-35mm wide-angle photos."

"The video is full of extra small tips and tricks," Iversen says. "No matter if you use a Sony 16-35 f/2.8, 12-24 f/4, Canon 16-35 f/2.8 or f/4, Nikon 14-24 f/2.8 or another brand such as Tamron or Sigma there are plenty of wide-angle zoom lenses to choose from. In case you feel it becomes a bit formulaic, you can always mix up your compositions. In these five steps, I share how to think, what to photograph, composition ideas, settings and editing ideas."

Here are the five steps that Iverson explains in the video:

Step 1: Holistic Thinking

Step 2: Interesting Focal Point

Step 3: Create a Strong Meaningful Composition

Step 4: Focus and Sharpness

Step 5: Editing

Watch the clip and then go visit Iversen's YouTube channel for more great landscape photography videos including this one where he suggests five ways to use a telephoto lens for landscape photography. You should also check out this story from Shutterbug columnist Deborah Sandidge on how to use a wide-angle lens to shoot stunning photos.