Originating between 1826 and 1827, landscape photography commonly involves daylight photography of natural features of land, sky and waters, at a distance. This typically captures the presence of nature but can also focus on human-made features or disturbances of landscapes on a vast or microscopic scale. This type of photography captures many elements of formalism within the composition, such as line, shape, colour, depth and texture. These images may aim to capture the essence and presence of nature around us that others may miss however it can also focus on documenting the disturbances in that specific area.

Landscape emerged as an art genre in Western Culture during the Renaissance period in the 16th century, an era that was trying influence a more modern, art appreciating society. Linear perspective was an advancement where artists were able to move towards a more realistic portrayal of an environment, attempting to show depth within a two-dimensional surface – paintings. At this time, this style of art wasn’t highly appreciated yet by many people.

Classical Landscapes

Classical Landscapes emerged in the 17th century which sought to illustrate an ideal landscape, one that only people would dream of in hopes of full relaxation. This idea recalled Arcadia, a legendary place located in Greece known for its serenity and quiet tone. The leading practitioners of classical landscapes were the French-born Italy-based artists Nicolas Poussin and Claude Lorrain. These paintings showed symmetry and balance, something that the viewer could look at and feel peace.

The late 18th/19th century – Romanticism

“Romanticism is precisely situated neither in choice of subject nor in exact truth, but in a way of feeling.” – Poet and critic Charles Baudelaire, 1846

The rise of Romanticism prompted the rise of landscape art. Romanticism is an artistic and intellectual movement that originated in Europe that characterized literature, music, painting and architecture. This movement contained attitudes of a deepened appreciation of the beauties of nature.