Red Lodge, Montana, and The Island at Rock Creek, are positioned perfectly within some of the most spectacular mountainous vistas anywhere. The small creeks, including the trout-filled Rock Creek, the pine-cone strewn forests, and the tall mountain peaks—some of which rise so high above sea level that there are traces of the previous year’s snow pack that never truly completely disappear—provide some of the most incredible scenery and enjoyably hike-able country anywhere. And while you are out there experiencing the area, it’s likely that you are either going to take out a dedicated camera or a cell phone and try to capture a photo of the incredible scenery. And it’s difficult to capture a photo that truly reflects such an inspiring landscape. But here are a few tips, a few concepts to keep in mind before you click the shutter.
If you are comfortable with your camera, and understand the effects that aperture can have on a great picture, then it’s a good idea to explore the possibilities of depth of field. If you choose to focus on an object in the middle ground, it will build a depth and distance to your photo; different effects can be achieved depending on the objects you choose to keep in focus. If you are shooting with a cell phone, a similar effect can be achieved, and, if you are unsure of the best way to compose the shot, use the simplicity of the cell phone’s focus to take several shots with different objects in focus, then sort out your favorite shots later.
It’s also a good idea to try and capture the scene in the best light. The photographer’s “golden hours” are the times of day (the first and last hour of daylight) when the sun is at such an angle to provide terrific, warm light. But if you plan to take a picture at any random time of day, and you plan to focus on something in the foreground (i.e. people posed in front of a mountainous landscape) then try to maneuver the shot for the most flattering or pleasing light—If you have the option, don’t place people staring straight into the sun (squinting) and instead situate them so that the sunlight either comes in at an angle or slightly behind them.
Hopefully you take some tremendous pictures to remember your trip to the Red Lodge areas and your stay at The Island at Rock Creek. If you have any questions, or are ready to book your next stay, then call today.
