Advice from Quan Vu
- The Global Photography Community
- Mar 7
- 3 min read
When planning a shoot in the wild, preparation is key, but there’s also a place for spontaneity. I spend a lot of time researching—thinking about location, weather conditions, possible compositions, and techniques I want to try. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be for any situation. But nature is unpredictable, and sometimes the best shots are the ones you didn’t plan for. When extraordinary scenes unfold, let go of rigid plans and go with the flow. Flexibility is essential to catch those magical moments that only last an instant.
Finding my own style has been a process of experimenting with both technique and emotion. I plan each shot with care, and in post-production, I try to recreate not just the look of the scene but the feeling I had in the moment. For me, a successful photo captures that emotion naturally, without over-processing. Don’t rush to find a “style” right away; let it develop through your experiences and let your work speak to who you are, not who you’re trying to emulate.
As for qualities a good photographer should have, patience and flexibility top the list. Waiting for the perfect light or the right moment takes time, and not every shoot will go as planned. Flexibility lets you adapt to whatever comes your way—whether that’s shifting locations, trying a different angle, or adjusting for unexpected weather. Being detail-oriented is also crucial. It’s not just about noticing the small things while you’re shooting, but also being able to remove any distracting elements during editing to strengthen your image. Curiosity is equally important. Approach each shoot with the curiosity of a child, and you’ll find endless possibilities to explore. Challenges will arise, especially in remote or difficult environments, but that’s part of the excitement. Before going, I always do thorough research on the area, the culture, and possible weather conditions, as well as local regulations. I connect with local photographers or guides who know the area well. This preparation not only helps you get great shots but keeps you safe, and it’s easier to adapt when unexpected situations arise.
Unpredictable weather and lighting are a given in outdoor photography, so flexibility becomes your best friend here too. Be ready to move locations, change your perspective, or wait for that perfect moment when the light is just right. Sometimes, it even means being willing to reschedule. In my experience, patience pays off. For example, there’s a snowy mountain peak I’ve tried to capture in a particular way, and I’ve made the climb nine times now without luck due to weather! Instead of getting discouraged, I’ve enjoyed each climb and found other beautiful moments along the way. When choosing a location, think about what story you want to tell. I usually scout both a primary and backup spot, so I’m covered in case of weather issues. In the field, I try out different compositions, sometimes using multiple options before deciding which one truly speaks to the moment. Composition and light are central to everything I shoot. Good composition guides the viewer’s eye, while light sets the tone, mood, and depth of the image. Photography, after all, is about capturing light, and it’s what brings every scene to life.
