Behind every beautiful nature photograph, there is a landscape photographer.
If you’re into capturing the beauty of nature, you’ve probably heard of some of the big names in landscape photography.
These famous landscape photographers have a knack for making mountains, rivers, and sunsets resemble scenes from a dream. Let’s explore landscape photography and check out some famous photographers who have mastered this art.
Table of contents
1. Ansel Adams
One of the well-known photographers in the landscape genre is Ansel Easton Adams. His black-and-white images have been the talk of the town, and they don’t get old.
Many other photographers have honoured and appreciated his work. His use of contrast and lighting sets a high bar for photographers everywhere.
2. Alister Benn
Our next famous landscape photographer is yet another nature lover, and he has been teaching landscape photography since 2005.
Alister Benn is very much “the face” of Expressive Photography. An innovative and creative thinker with decades of experience. Winner of numerous international awards and over a decade of photography education experience.
If you want to know more about him, check out Alister Benn’s Interview
3. Galen Rowell
Galen Rowell (1940 – 2002) was a legendary climber, adventurer, and photographer who burst onto the scene in the 1960s.
His journey into full-time photography kicked off in 1972 when he snagged an assignment for National Geographic, which became a cover story—talk about a big break!
Rowell wasn’t just about capturing stunning landscapes; he was a storyteller and a longtime columnist for Outdoor Photographer Magazine.
His passion and talent left an indelible mark on the photography world. Sadly, Galen and his wife, Barbara, lost their lives in a tragic plane crash near Bishop, California, in 2002. Their legacy, however, continues to inspire adventurers and photographers alike.
4. Michael Kenna
Michael Kenna (born 1953) is an English photographer famous for his unique black and white landscape photos. He captures these images in the early morning or at night, sometimes using exposures as long as 10 hours to create a dreamy effect.
His work focuses on how natural landscapes and man-made structures interact under different atmospheric conditions.
Many books feature his work, showcasing subjects like The Rouge in Dearborn, Michigan, and the snowy island of Hokkaido, Japan.
His photographs are also part of permanent collections in prestigious institutions, such as the Bibliothèque Nationale in Paris, the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., and others.
Check out 10 Tips That Will Improve Your Landscape Photography
5. Charlie Waite
Charlie Waite, born in 1949, is a famous landscape photographer known for his serene and calming images. Initially an actor, he transitioned to photography, inspired by theatrical lighting and design.
Over his 35-year career, Charlie has held numerous solo exhibitions worldwide, provided photography tuition, and launched the UK Landscape Photographer of the Year competition. He is also the founder of Light and Land, a leading photographic workshop and tour company.
His work is celebrated for its unique spiritual quality, and he has received numerous accolades, including a Fellowship from The Royal Photographic Society.
Check Out: Complete Landscape Photography Guide 2024
6. Thomas Heaton
Thomas Heaton got serious about photography at 16, inspired by his love for the outdoors and the challenge of capturing its beauty.
His photos capture the essence of twilight evenings, solitary mountains, and peaceful beaches. He shares his passion through a YouTube channel with over 390,000 followers and 32 million views.
Thomas Heaton’s photography transformed his life, giving purpose to his solo adventures and easing his anxieties.
Starting with film in 2000, he switched to digital in 2006 with a Canon 350D. Later, he returned to film with a 4×5 large-format camera and a Hasselblad 501cm. He now enjoys both film and digital photography, finding peace in exploring new places with his camera.
7. Frans Lanting
Our next famous landscape photographer is Frans Lanting. He is a Dutch National Geographic photographer, author and speaker.
His photographs are regularly published in National Geographic, where he served as photographer-in-residence.
He is also featured in Outdoor Photographer, Audubon, and Life. In 2005, the Field Museum of Natural History showcased his exhibit “Jungles,” which focused on the plants and animals of the rainforest.
Also Read: 15 Tips For Shooting Great Outdoor Portrait Photography In 2024
8. Erin Babnik
Erin Babnik is a famous landscape photographer, educator, writer, and speaker. Her photography combines adventurous exploration, advanced techniques, and art education. In her writing and talks, she blends art history, philosophy, and practical tips.
Erin’s passion for photography began while working as an art historian. It grew during her Ph.D. at UC Berkeley, where she photographed for her dissertation and lectures.
She eventually shifted to full-time wilderness photography and now travels worldwide to teach workshops and give talks. Erin is a Canon Explorer of Light and a member of the Photo Cascadia team.
9. David Muench
David Muench is an American landscape and nature photographer known for portraying the American western landscape. He is the primary photographer for more than 60 books, and his work has appeared in many magazines, posters, and private collections.
10. Marc Adamus
Marc Adamus’s award-winning landscape work has appeared in numerous publications, including National Geographic, Digital Photographer, Digital Photo Pro, Popular Photography, Readers Digest, Sierra Club, and Outdoor Photographer.
Among his wide range of post-processing techniques, he is known for expertly blending multiple exposures to capture and enhance the American wilderness, resulting in surreal and visually arresting landscape and nature images.
Also Read: 5 Tips To Transform Your Workspace With Mountain Photography
11. Justin Rezneck
Justin Rezneck, a professional photographer from Seattle, Washington, has travelled to seven countries on six continents.
He has trekked some of the planet’s most renowned trails along his journey, capturing breathtaking landscape photographs and unique cultures through his lens.
Check out more of Justin’s photography deals
12. Gim Liu
Gim Liu is another landscape photographer with a unique photography style.
He specializes in long exposure and dark photography more often. He is also a tutor who shares his experiences and secret tips and tricks. Gim Liu owns a sole proprietary Gimagery, which predominantly specialises in exceptional photography products and services.
Check out more of Gimagery’s photography deals
Conclusion
These 12 famous landscape photographers have each carved out their unique space in the world of nature photography, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
From Ansel Adams’s timeless black and white images to Marc Adamus’s innovative techniques, their work inspires and captivates.
Each photographer brings a distinct perspective, capturing the beauty of the natural world in ways that resonate deeply with viewers. As you explore their contributions, you’ll discover the artistry and passion that make landscape photography a powerful medium.
