The One Tool Every Photographer Needs: National Geographic Photography

Produced in Partnership With National Geographic

Question: How can you darken the sky in a situation where it’s too bright for your foreground?

Answer: A lens filter called call a graduated neutral density filter.

Professional photographers use nuetral density filters in their photos on many shoots. It can help you record the best shots in your camera, without having to use fancy software to balance the light later.

Watch the video below for a more in-depth explanation about using neutral density filters, hosted by National Geographic Photographer Michael Melford.

Masters of Photography by The Great CoursesThis helpful tip is just one of hundreds of techniques found in the course National Geographic Masters of Photography, available to stream now on The Great Courses Plus.