The above shot of the Royal Melbourne Botanical Gardens. Was taken using an Infrared Filter. They typically excel in their depth of field character as infrared light rays cut through any atmospheric haze like a knife through warm butter. Thus they are often used by the military for specific reconnaissance operations where such high detailed performance is desired.
Landscape art created by a camera rather than a brush, landscape photography is a genre meant to show the beauty of the natural world. Most landscape photographers strive to show as little human activity as possible, ideally none, in their photos. Instead, the subjects are landforms, weather, and ambient light.
Waterfalls are especially popular, as are mountain vistas. These often call for neutral density or polarizing filters.
Landscapes are most often created with a wide angle lens (24 mm and 35 mm are especially popular) and a tripod. Small apertures (f/11 to f/22) are used to maximize depth of field.
Landscape photography has become a valuable tool to inspire environmental stewardship. Capturing the beauty of unspoiled places serves to bring dwindling wilderness areas into the public eye. Many noted landscape photographers provide images to environmental protection organizations. Noted organizations use professional and amateur photographers' work to further the preservation cause.EarthJustice.org, one of the most successful wilderness preservation organizations, has a screensaver page highlighting landscape photography that represents causes that they champion. Greenpeace releases a well known annual calendar with some of the most stunning nature photography in print.
