PLANNING AND PREPARATION
Being in the right place at the right time is the cornerstone of good photography. If you only ever walk in the hills during the middle part of the day, when the light is at its least photogenic, you are massively reducing your chances of taking good pictures. The best conditions often come at dawn or dusk, and spending as much time as possible in the hills at these times will reward you greatly. Put some effort into researching possible locations. Think back to some of the best views you have seen whilst hillwalking, and consider what time of year or conditions might turn that view into a great photo. Using online apps such as The Photographer’s Ephemeris will allow you to see where the sun will rise and set on any day of the year in any location, and this can be great for planning photos.
Wild camping in the hills can be highly fruitful for photography. It will ensure you are up high during the times of day when the light is often best; so, simply put, you won’t miss anything. Set an early alarm, and don’t be tempted by a lie-in! Spend as much time studying weather forecasts, and make plans accordingly. If some special conditions are predicted, such as a cloud inversion, try to get out in the hills if you can. The better the hills look when you are there, the easier it will be to take good photos. It is also important not to rule out days when the forecast doesn’t look promising. Changeable weather can produce some incredibly dramatic conditions and light, particularly during periods of northerly winds and heavy showers. These days can be great for capturing photos whilst you are out walking, as the light is often rapidly changing.