The Zone System Revisited

Ansel Adams’ system for previsualizing and controlling the tones in a photograph are every bit as relevant today as they were when he first came up with them in the middle of the 20th century

By Ken Rockwell

Published July 7, 2009
Updated October 14, 2016

Ansel Adams is credited with developing the Zone System in the 1940s. In the ensuing time, photography has undergone a series of monumental changes, but even today when digital dominates the photography landscape, the Zone System remains relevant, particularly if you’re going to be making black-and-white photographs.

To read this Tips & Techniques article, become a Member.

Become an Outdoor Photographer Member to access this Tips & Techniques Article, plus techniques, inspiration and equipment reviews from the pros!

By entering your email, you agree to our privacy policy and to receive emails from Outdoor Photographer.

Featured Articles

Sandhill crane migration prairie sunset

Sandhill Crane Migration

Photographing the rhythms of the last great American wildlife migration.

Photograph The Conventional Unconventionally

Photograph The Conventional Unconventionally

Creative approaches to reveal familiar photographic subjects in new ways

To access this content, you must purchase Outdoor Photographer Membership.

Landscape photography lenses

Landscape Photography Lenses

Our guide to wide-angle lenses, the most popular and useful optics for landscape photography.

Cranes in Hokkaido Japan

Wild Japan

A traveler’s guide to Japan’s diverse, year-round wildlife photo opportunities.

To access this content, you must purchase Outdoor Photographer Membership.

Pixel Wars And The High-Res DSLR: Pay To Play

Pixel Wars And The High-Res DSLR: Pay To Play

Lately, this question dominates every venue where serious photographers gather to learn about new techniques and equipment to advance their photography.

Landscape Light, Part 2

Landscape Light, Part 2

Lighting styles and techniques to add dimension and form to your landscape compositions

To access this content, you must purchase Outdoor Photographer Membership.