Outdoor Photography Mistakes Beginners Make (And How to Fix Them!)
Outdoor photography is exciting and rewarding, but it comes with its challenges. Many beginners make common mistakes that result in missed shots, poor exposure, or lack of sharpness. The good news? These mistakes are easy to fix with a little guidance!
In this article, we’ll explore the most common outdoor photography mistakes and how to avoid them. Plus, we’ll share how Omnilargess Outdoor Photography Workshops can help you master your camera and elevate your skills!
1. Shooting in Auto Mode All the Time
The Mistake:
Relying on Auto mode means you let the camera make all the decisions. While it might work in some situations, it often results in poor exposure, lack of creative control, and incorrect focus.
The Fix:
- Learn to use Aperture Priority (Av/A) or Shutter Priority (Tv/S) for better control.
- Master Manual Mode to fully control exposure.
- Join a hands-on photography workshop to practice adjusting settings in real-time.
At our Outdoor Photography Workshops, we teach you how to confidently shoot in Manual Mode!
2. Ignoring the Light and Time of Day
The Mistake:
Shooting at midday often leads to harsh shadows and overexposed highlights. Many beginners don’t consider the quality of light, which can dramatically impact a photo’s mood.
The Fix:
- Shoot during Golden Hour (early morning or late afternoon) for soft, warm light.
- Use overcast days for even lighting in portraits and landscapes.
- Learn how to adjust exposure settings for bright and low-light conditions.
Our workshops include outdoor practice sessions to teach you how to work with different lighting conditions!
3. Using the Wrong Focus Mode
The Mistake:
If your subject is moving, using the wrong autofocus mode can result in blurry shots.
The Fix:
- Use AI Servo (Canon) / AF-C (Nikon, Sony) for moving subjects.
- Use Single Shot (One-Shot AF / AF-S) for still subjects.
- Practice back-button focus for better control over your focus points.
At our workshops, we teach autofocus techniques so you can capture sharp images every time!
4. Not Using a Tripod When Needed
The Mistake:
Hand-holding the camera in low light or for long exposures leads to shaky, blurred images.
The Fix:
- Use a sturdy tripod for night photography, landscapes, and long exposures.
- If shooting handheld, use image stabilization and a fast shutter speed.
- Learn how to properly set up your camera for sharp, clear images.
Our Outdoor Night Photography Workshops teach you how to use tripods effectively for sharp results!
5. Poor Composition Choices
The Mistake:
Centering your subject in every shot or failing to consider the background can make images feel flat or cluttered.
The Fix:
- Use the Rule of Thirds to create more dynamic compositions.
- Watch for distracting backgrounds and adjust your angle if needed.
- Include foreground elements to add depth to your photos.
Join our hands-on workshop to improve your composition skills with expert guidance!
6. Overlooking Camera Settings Before Shooting
The Mistake:
Forgetting to check settings can result in underexposed or overexposed shots, incorrect white balance, or slow shutter speeds leading to blur.
The Fix:
- Always review your ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and white balance before shooting.
- Take a test shot and adjust settings if needed.
- Learn how to set up your camera for different scenarios.
Our workshops help you develop a workflow for checking and adjusting your settings quickly!
7. Not Experimenting with Different Angles and Perspectives
The Mistake:
Always shooting from eye level can make your images look ordinary and uninspired.
The Fix:
- Try low angles for a dramatic effect.
- Shoot from high above for a unique perspective.
- Move around your subject to find the most interesting composition.
Our workshops encourage creative exploration to help you develop your own photographic style!
Ready to Take Your Outdoor Photography to the Next Level?
Mistakes are part of the learning process, but with expert guidance and hands-on practice, you can improve faster! Our Omnilargess Outdoor Photography Workshops are designed to help you gain confidence in your camera skills while shooting in real-world conditions.
Beginner Outdoor Photography Workshop – April 5, 2025 (Mill Lake Park, Abbotsford)
Intermediate Outdoor Photography Workshop – May 3, 2025 (Fish Trap Creek Park, Abbotsford)
Advanced Outdoor Photography Workshop – June 7, 2025 (Fish Trap Creek Park, Abbotsford)
Stop making these common mistakes—learn how to fix them and start capturing amazing outdoor photos today!
Want More Free Photography Tips?
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily photography tips and tutorials.
That is all for now. Stay tuned for my following photography Tips. We love to hear from you. Let us know if you have any questions; feel free to send us your questions, and we will gladly answer them. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more Free Tutorials and Tips.
Ted and the Omnilargess Team