022 Planning and Scouting Nature Photography Trips

In Episode 22 of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey dig into one of the least glamorous but most important parts of landscape photography: planning and scouting. From pre-trip research to in-field decision-making, this episode is all about finding the balance between being prepared and staying creatively flexible. The conversation pulls from real experiences photographing in Utah, Colorado, and the Great Smoky Mountains, and explores how planning changes depending on whether you are visiting a new location or returning to a familiar one. Along the way, they talk about using weather as a creative tool, managing expectations, avoiding preconceived shots, and why scouting does not stop once you arrive. If you have ever overplanned a trip, underplanned a trip, or shown up with great intentions only to be humbled by conditions, this one is for you. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights Why planning matters, but rigid plans can hold your photography back How pre-trip research differs for new locations versus familiar places Using weather, seasons, and conditions to guide creative decisions Managing expectations and setting realistic goals for a trip The role of scouting before and during a photography outing Avoiding preconceived images and staying open to what the landscape gives you Balancing preparation with spontaneity to stay creatively engaged Related Links: Michael’s Amazon guidebook list: https://www.amazon.com/shop/michaelrungphotography/list/2EDPL69ILQ1K7?ref_=aipsflist Cole Thompson's article on photo celibacy: https://colethompsonphotography.com/2018/03/22/photographic-celibacy-thoughts-ten-years-later/    Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com