Grand Photos from the Grand Canyon

[ssshumack]

Hi everyone! I will be taking a trip to the Grand Canyon in mid-May. I have the Nikon D50, 18-55mm, 55-200mm, and the 18-150mm lenses. I also have the UV filter, polarized filter and the amber colored one (not really sure what it is). I need tips from everyone on what kind of setting, lens, filter, etc. to be practicing so I can get those "grand photos". I have never used manual mode b/c I do not know what settings to put what on. But please any tips will be greatly appreciated! Oh yeah, I do have tripods.

[fletch]

Originally Posted by ssshumack

Hi everyone! I will be taking a trip to the Grand Canyon in mid-May. I have the Nikon D50, 18-55mm, 55-200mm, and the 18-150mm lenses. I also have the UV filter, polarized filter and the amber colored one (not really sure what it is). I need tips from everyone on what kind of setting, lens, filter, etc. to be practicing so I can get those "grand photos". I have never used manual mode b/c I do not know what settings to put what on. But please any tips will be greatly appreciated! Oh yeah, I do have tripods.

I would see if you can buy or hire a super wide lens. 10-22 or something similar. I've never been to the grand canyon but I bet there are some spectacular wide views you could capture.

[KodiakStar]

Yea, the wider the better Tripod would come in handy to get some f/22 shots with lots of detail.

Polarized filter can help get the sky more blue. Some people love them, some hate them. Take pictures with it off as well if you bring it to save from re-shoots later...

The last suggestion, is Research! Research all you can on photos you like (google, flickr, etc), then try to find where they are, or what type of photos you want to take and plan the trip out!

I've been doing that for the past couple weekends to local parks, and it makes all the difference, especially if you are looking for a sunrise/sunset type photo where you have limited time to get your shot in!

[t blanchard]

And be prepared for many different lighting conditions! The sky could be hazy and cloudy or bright blue. Try to go very early in the morning and catch the sunrise (are you going to the North or South rim?). Research where other photographers have said the best overlooks are (quick Google search).

Have fun! I'm going in May also

[harrypalmer044]

Hi there,
I was there in September last year and we went early in the morning. The colour of the canyons changes all day and it can be very hazy so it might be a case of waiting for just the right conditions for that special picture. You will love it, there are very few words to describe how beautiful it is. If you get the chance try to go see the Valley Of Fire as well. I think in my humble opinion its is more beautiful.

[windrider86]

The new platform would be an awsome place to start. Shooting straight down into the canyon. http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/skywalk.htm
It was in the works last time I was there. I big platform that goes out over the canyon but built with glass (ok maybe not glass but something so you can see straight thru it)
Lighting varies a great deal at the canyon. It also depends on where you are at. Shadows play a HUGE part so sometimes bracket your images.
Aside from the canyon there are some other places to photograph. There is a tower on the south rim that has a ton of cool artifcats in it as well as being able to climb the stairs and get an awsome view of the canyon and the river.
No matter where you go you are going to be in awe. So you may want to bring a napkin to wipe your chin off with
If you have time and money I HIGHLY recommend one of the helicopter tours. I promise you wont regret it

[harrypalmer044]

Just so you know,
They will not let you take your own camera out on the "Skywalk" anymore. I tried but was told it was too dangerous in case I dropped it? but on going out there to enjoy the stunning views the local guide has the same camera out there and asked me if I would like my photo taken!! There are plenty of places to get your shots from and if you are thinking of going by Chopper I would recommend "Maverick Helicopters" they were brilliant and we had a great day with them.

[windrider86]

thats a bummer that you cant take your camera out there anymore. wouldnt it be at your own risk type of deal?
But you can take it on a hiking tour. hmmm same thing. Rules schmools

[harrypalmer044]

If I am honest with you its all about the mighty $, they charge you for taking shots from the Skywalk with their equipment. Sad as I really wanted to take my own so I just went to one side of it and did it from there. Also think it's a bit sad that they are building a multi story building in from of the walk to add dining, shopping and such. I just think it takes away from the grand beauty and peacefulness of the canyon. That is wy I like the Valley Of Fire so much, you can drive there and it is quiet and so beautiful.

[t blanchard]

Originally Posted by windrider86

thats a bummer that you cant take your camera out there anymore. wouldnt it be at your own risk type of deal?
But you can take it on a hiking tour. hmmm same thing. Rules schmools

From what I've read you could *never* take your camera out there.

Also, it is not run by the National Park Service, so hence the emphasis on making money.