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tips
using the sun to light your subject (click here for examples)
using the correct angle of the sun can change the lighting of an image dramatically. always consider the angle of the sun to the object that you are photographing. having the sun directly behind you will provide even lighting (depending on the verticle angle of the sun) while having the sun to the side can provide dramatic side lighting.
applying the "right" filter (click here for examples)
using the right filter can provide accent on a particular color. a commonly used filter is a warming filter which will provide more sunlight tones to the scene seemingly emulating the colors found when the sun is rising or setting. it may also make the image darker or more saturated. i will often shoot a scene both with and without a particular filter if i feel it may make for a better image and then bracket the exposure to ensure the exact results that i am looking for. if you look at the side by side comparison via the link above, you can make the choice of when you would like to apply a little extra color.
use polarizing filters but wisely (click here for examples)
a polarizing filter allows for the saturation of colors by removing reflected light. the effects can be stunning (everything from making colors more saturated, remove sharp highlights to deepening sky colors). i recommend using a quality rotating filter which allows you to control the amount of reflected light to allow. just turn the filter and watch the change through the lens! but beware, too much polarizing can have an adverse affect! especially at high altitude, a blue sky can turn black as well as all of your colors can become muddy (dark and/or under exposed). that is why a rotating polarizer is best to allow you to add more reflected light as needed to make the scene more natural. use the link above to see a side by side comparison of a rotating polarizer in action!
use flash in full sunlight (click here for examples)
when the sun is out, you will often have harsh shadows, which is especially annoying on the faces of people that you may be photographing. the way to soften the shadows is to use fill flash. today's cameras will adjust the exposure so the image will be correct but you will get even lighting on the subject reducing the shadow. a side benefit is that your background should be darker since the flash has a distance limitation since backgrounds on sunny days can look washed out.
equipment list
camera: nikon d2xs, mc-30 release cord
fixed lens: nikon 400mm/2.8f w/ 1.4x & 2x extenders, 105mm/2.8f
zoom lens: nikon 80-400mm/4.5-5.6f, 24-120mm/3.5-5.6f, 12-24mm/4f
filter: nikon circular polar, a2, l37c, l37c w/ petroleum jelly
flash: nikon sb-800, sd-8 battery pack, sc-29 flash cord
memory: kingston elite, kingston usb card reader, gepe memory case
support: gitzo tripod, monopod, foba ball head, wimberley side kick, kirk quick release plate, bean bag
bags: tamrac rolling backpack, tripod bag, sling pack, rei wet bag
reflectors: photoflex white, gold/silver
meters: expodisc white balance
accessories: laird tripod covers, rain hood, ground cover
personal computers: apple imac, apple macbook
cleaners: ror cleaner, photo-clear towels, eclipse cleaner, photographic solutions swab
