Common Traits That Make Great Photos, Part 1

Text & Photography By Russ Burden

Published October 13, 2016
Updated October 17, 2016

Take a moment to think about the most famous photo you know. What made you choose that picture? Think of...

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!

Photography is what motivates me to move through life in a positive way. Photography is ͞All About The Light͟ and it’s the first thing I seek out before I press the shutter. Optimally, I pursue great subjects in great light, but if there’s an ordinary subject in great light, I still press the shutter. I love to share the photographic knowledge I’ve accumulated and I hope my enthusiasm is contagious so I can motivate others to feel the same way I do about my photography.

Featured Articles

Geyser bubbles at sunrise taken with the Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Hands-On With The Canon EOS 6D Mark II

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is an excellent full-frame camera for landscape and nature photographers. Here's what we liked most about it.

Keeping Your Photos Safe, Part 4: Backup Workflow

Essential steps to take for a cohesive backup strategy that ensures the longevity of your photo library

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

Long Lens Tips And Techniques

Long Lens Tips And Techniques

My first long lens, purchased back in 1983, was the Canon 400mm ƒ/4.5 FD.

Horned puffins near Katmai National Park

Katmai For Wildlife

The dramatic landscapes of Katmai National Park in southern Alaska are home to an abundance of wildlife photo opportunities.

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

10 Tips For Better Autofocus In Nature Photography

10 Tips For Better Autofocus In Nature Photography

It’s easy to take autofocus for granted. I know, I do. This technology is amazing—your camera has to figure out what should be sharp in a scene, focus the lens and take the picture, all in a fraction of a second.

Logan Pass, Going-to-the-Sun Road

Parks For The People

George Grant toiled in obscurity for nearly three decades as the first official photographer of the National Park Service. Ren and Helen Davis want to make sure his story isn’t lost to history.

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