Urban Landscape Photography, also known as cityscape photography, is an increasingly popular form of photography that provides immense satisfaction. The appeal of urban landscapes lies in their accessibility. Given that most of the global population resides in or near cities, these urban environments present excellent opportunities for capturing stunning landscape images without the need for distant travel.

Within every city, there lies a wealth of potential subjects and scenes eagerly awaiting the click of your camera. Whether it’s a bustling cityscape nearby or an intriguing scene just beyond your doorstep, urban landscapes offer numerous captivating photo opportunities.

To achieve exceptional urban landscape photography, it is crucial to apply techniques akin to those used when capturing traditional landscapes. However, certain opportunities and challenges are unique to urban environments. To maximize the potential of your cityscape photography, here are some valuable tips to set you on the right path:

• Seek Unique Perspectives:
  Explore different vantage points and angles to showcase the distinctive character of the urban landscape.
  Consider elevated viewpoints, bridges, rooftops, or even alleys to add depth and interest to your compositions.
• Embrace the Golden Hours:
  Make the most of the magical lighting during the golden hours—shortly after sunrise and before sunset.
  The soft, warm hues of the sun can profoundly enhance the urban scenery, creating a captivating atmosphere.
• Incorporate Human Elements in the Landscape:
  Urban landscapes offer a fascinating blend of architecture and people. Experiment with including human subjects in your shots to add a sense of scale, a dynamic element and narrative to your compositions. Urban landscape photography is landscape photography and not street photography of people and activities in the street. In general and for DMCC Competitions, the focus of an urban landscape photograph is the landscape and not the human elements, so people in the shot are not the primary subjects.
• Pay Attention to Details:
  Urban environments are often rich in intricate details and textures. Focus on capturing unique architectural elements, street art, signage, or reflections in glass and metal surfaces. These details can add a layer of visual interest and reveal the essence of the cityscape.
• Experiment with Long Exposures:
  Utilize long exposure techniques to capture the motion and energy of the city.
  Using a tripod and longer shutter speeds, you can create mesmerizing light trails from passing cars or smooth out the ripples in water bodies, adding a sense of dynamism and depth to your images.
• Utilize Reflections:
  Exploit reflective surfaces like puddles, glass facades, or wet pavements to create stunning reflections that enhance the urban landscape, offering a unique perspective and heightened visual impact.
• Capture Urban Nightscapes:
  Cities transform at night with vibrant lights and captivating skylines. Experiment with long exposures, play with bokeh effects and utilize artificial lighting to capture the enchanting nocturnal charm of urban landscapes.

Remember, as with any photography, practice and experimentation are key. Develop your unique style while exploring the urban environment, and don’t be afraid to push the boundaries to capture genuinely remarkable cityscapes.

Urban Landscape Photography
by Doris J. Bies, DMCC Member