The natural beauty of the Akamas peninsula makes an attractive subject for landscape photography. Renowned Cypriot photographer Nikolas Michael photographs the area often, and he recommends several approaches. To capture the intricate features of flowers, use a macro lens. Position the camera 6-10 inches from the subject and think about how you can add or take away light to sharpen the image. ‘These shots are very delicate—a gust of wind or even a breath of air can throw them off,’ he says. In approaching the rugged, hard surfaces of the landscape itself, light is the most important consideration. Consider angles and heights as you frame your shot. Then use the aperture, filters, or a circular polarizer to shape the light. In the evening, a long exposure allows the camera to record more light on the subject’s surface. Nikolas especially likes creating long-exposure moonlit seascapes: ‘With the moving variables of water and stars and moonlight, no two images will ever be the same.’ The light reflected off the moon’s surface is strong at full moon, while starlight brightens as the moon wanes. In framing a seascape, he frequently anchors an image with an object that doesn’t move, such as a rock formation. As part of its Bespoke Experiences programme, Anassa offers a landscape photography lesson with Nikolas. Spend half a day in the field trying different tools and techniques and then edit your images with Photoshop. You will receive a memory card with your images—and a deeper appreciation for the art of landscape photography.
