Nature Photography Tips from a National Geographic Photographer

We’re all familiar with National Geographic, if not captivated by its endless amount of gorgeous photography. The magazine, which allows no editing of the photographs it uses, has set high standards for nature photographers everywhere. Being able to capture an image worthy of National Geographic takes quite a bit of talent and, as Michael Melford explains in the following video, a little bit of luck. Melford, a seasoned nature photographer, has shot for National Geographic as well as many other popular publications. If you can spare an hour and half of your time, Melford shares some of his photographs, insight, and tips that might get you one step further to becoming published yourself:

Inside of Melford’s camera bag:

national geographic photographerphotographing water

“16-35mm wide angle, this is my normal lens. I probably use it more than I should. Foreground, middleground, background, landscapes. Couple of examples, I like to get something close to me in the foreground and let your eye carry on.”

landscape photographyphotographing children

“I only use two filters. To me, if you learn nothing else, you’ll learn to go out and buy a polarizing filter for your camera.”

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