Outdoor Photography How To

When a photo emphasizes a particular color, it often dictates the mood of the picture—be it warm or cool, bright or muted. Blue is usually associated with soothing, cool and more-somber moods. Conversely, the color red conjures up emotions like passion, heat, love, and even anger.

We often...

All photos by Mike Stensvold unless otherwise stated.

It's probably true that real artists are born, not made. But there is a lot anyone can do to make his or her photographs more interesting, and the tips on these pages should help you improve yours.

Seeing is the fun part of...

It's back—our annual collection of ideas to keep you and your camera happily occupied for hours.

1. Don't Go Anywhere Without It!
It's a photographic truism that you can't get the picture if you don't have a camera. How many times have you missed out on a great shot—or at least, a nice record of something...

Maybe it's cold outside . . . but it's a great time to take pictures!

Winter brings with it some great photo opportunities. In many areas winter means snowy landscapes and snow sports; in others, it's just a somewhat cooler and slightly wetter time of year. Here are some winter-oriented photo tips that should help you add some nice shots to your portfolio, and have some fun doing it.

Photo opportunities are abundant during the fall. You can shoot great pictures of autumn color, carved pumpkins, or children dressed in an array of Halloween costumes. Days become shorter and the light becomes warmer, which accentuates the changing fall foliage. Besides photographing colorful leaves...

Don't put your camera away just because the sun has gone down—some of the most intriguing photo opportunities await you after dark. From neon signs reflected on wet streets to car lights forming streaks on busy highways, nighttime offers a special blend of color and excitement. Photos taken by...

Ask a group of photo enthusiasts what they have done recently to improve the quality of their images, and many will likely respond by describing the purchase of some fancy new piece of gear. Others may discuss the technical mastery of a new technique, while a few may credit a visit to an art gallery or museum for their newfound inspiration.

In fact, great photographs are rarely the result of...