As an amateur photographer, it is easy to place a large emphasis on getting to know the multitude of functions your camera is capable of. Indeed it is very important for you to become familiar with how to maximize the various capabilities of your camera in order to get the most out of your shots in every different environmental setting.
In addition to learning what your camera is capable of, it’s also important to be able to analyze a variety of environmental factors. Lighting, background, and subject content are just a few elements to consider when taking photos outdoors.
Most importantly, a new photographer should take time to find some of the more attractive landscapes in their backyard that are most conducive to capturing breathtaking scenes. Most likely, there are a number of very conducive photo spots near you that you might not know about.
In Calgary, there are a number of great spots that every photographer should investigate. Here are a few suggestions for spots that will give you great opportunities to capture the Calgary skyline:
Ramsay
This is a classic spot to capture great shots of the Calgary skyline. From a hill in the neighborhood of Ramsay just southeast of downtown you can find an excellent view of downtown Calgary. In fact, this is one of the primary spots that news reporters will do their standups in order to get the skyline in the background, including views of the Saddledome and the Core.
McHugh Bluff
The outskirts of Calgary have many wooden stairways that were originally constructed to allow people to climb the banks of the river valleys surrounding the city. There are actually about a dozen flights of steps to choose from and you’ll frequently find them occupied by dedicated exercisers.
If you’re looking for a great view of downtown Calgary, however, there is one set of stairs that stands above the rest. Located on Memorial Drive on the opposite end of a pedestrian bridge that crosses the Bow from downtown at the Calgary Curling Club, this flight of stairs is a prime spot to capture Calgary’s unique skyline.
If you climb the stairs at noon you’ll quickly find yourself trudging through the crowds of office workers trying to blow off some midday steam. However, if you climb the stairs around sunset, you’ll have much less company and, when you reach the top, you’ll also find an incredible vantage point to capture some amazing scenes of downtown Calgary.
Nose Hill Park
If you travel a bit further away from the city, you can find another great angle of the city, from the north looking south, at Nose Hill Park. Park in the lot located off John Laurie Boulevard and enjoy a quick twenty-minute walk up the path to the grassy fields at the top of the hill.
While many people find the park to be a great place to relax in the sun, search for geocaches, or go for a nice bike or run with your dog, it’s also a great place to photograph the Calgary skyline. Make sure you take some time to enjoy the view while you’re searching for the perfect spot to capture some photos.
If you’re trying to capture the unique Calgary skyline in a variety of different lights, you should try to explore each of the photogenic spots mentioned above. As a photographer, be sure to consider where you’re taking pictures from just as much as you consider how to master the many functions and applications of your camera.
By James Lam Join me on Google +