I'd like to share some of the techniques that make scenic photography such a wonderful artform - simple, yet elegant.
First off, its all about the equipment. Today, cell phone camera’s are a popular choice. They often have many options for interesting amateur photo taking, that can capture like a pro and look really good!
Good photos are sharp, clear and bright. Zooms get my vote, even though they often don't have as wide an aperture, which limits their capabilities in low light situations.
Practically speaking, an SLR is best. They are lightweight, and can be used with top quality lenses. Film SLRs tend to be less expensive, but have the limitations of film, meaning you have to get it developed and so forth. Digital DSLRs are more expensive though, so for the budget conscious either go with a film SLR or a high quality basic digital camera. With digital, resolution is also a critical factor, so look at the specs before you buy.
When shooting , use the "rule of thirds."
When you place the main object of the picture smack-dab in the middle, it is static and boring. Place it one third of the way from either side, and you can imply motion. Put the horizon in a landscape photo a third of the way up or down, not across the middle.
OK, now emotions are running high, and that's great, but not too great! Sometimes I find a spot that is so wonderful, I start shooting like a madman, only to be disappointed by the pictures. What happened? Emotions. When you experience a place, there are sounds, aromas and breezes as well as the visuals of the spot. Needless to say, you can't photograph all of these elements, only the visual. When overwhelmed by the spectacle of a scenic hotspot, we are often moved by all of these elements.
So what to do? Look through your camera. The viewfinder does not lie (usually). Try to see what you are looking at as the finished picture. Most people perfunctorily take pictures, hoping that somehow the shot will come out great. At the moment you click the pic, you should know exactly what you will get.