Landscape photography is a genre that captures the beauty of the natural world, offering a window into breathtaking scenery, from mountains to deserts, forests to oceans.

This genre has a long and fascinating history dating back to the beginnings of photography in the 19th century.

Its evolution reflects not only the technological advances in photography but also the cultural and artistic changes that have influenced how we see and represent landscapes.

The Origins:

Photographers such as Gustave Le Gray began to explore the artistic and documentary potential of landscape photography. Le Gray, for example, created some of the first images of seascapes.

These pioneers took photography out of the studios and into the countryside, paving the way for landscape photography as we know it today.

Gustave Le Gray Marine, study of clouds 1856

Expansion and Documentation

In the United States, landscape photography played a crucial role in documenting westward expansion.

Photographers such as Carleton Watkins, Timothy O'Sullivan, and William Henry Jackson were sent to capture the natural beauty of the newly explored lands.

Their images of national parks, such as Yellowstone and Yosemite, not only showcased the natural beauty of the country but also contributed to the creation of the national parks themselves, raising public awareness of the importance of conservation.

Flaming Gorge on the Green River, near the mouth of Henry's Fork, 1870. William Henry Jackson

Carleton Watkins, Mirror View of El Capitan, c. 1872

Joanne Hollings: A Personal Vision of the Landscape

Among contemporary photographers who excel in this field, Joanne Hollings stands out with her collection "Earth in Frame: A World of Landscapes," which is a journey through the world's landscapes, offering a unique and personal view of the natural world.

The Distinctive Approach of Joanne Hollings

Through her lens, Joanne Hollings invites us on a profound journey, capturing the sublime beauty and intricate details of landscapes around the world.

Rooted in her native New Zealand, Hollings has traversed diverse terrains, reflecting not only her deep connection to nature but also her unwavering commitment to the art of photography.

Central to the subject matter of her works is the harmonious integration of the self-portrait within the natural setting, a distinctive approach that adds a personal and powerful dimension to her art.

Daydream, Joanne Hollings

A Comparison with Other Masters of Landscape Photography

Peter Lik is famous for his vivid and spectacular color images of American landscapes.

Like Hollings, Lik uses intense colors to capture the essence of the landscape. His photographs, often printed in large sizes, attempt to transport the viewer directly into the scene, similar to Hollings' immersive approach.

However, while Lik tends to emphasize the grandeur of landscapes, Hollings introduces a personal dimension through her self-portraits.

African Dreams, Peter Lik

Ethereal, Joanne Hollings

Chris Burkard is known for his photographs of outdoor adventures, often in extreme environments such as Arctic and sub-Arctic regions.

His ability to capture the raw and often inhospitable beauty of nature echoes Hollings' dedication to showcasing the natural world.

Both photographers share a passion for solitary exploration, but while Burkard focuses on action and the adrenaline rush of adventure, Hollings explores introspection and personal connection to the places she photographs.

Mulafossur waterfall, Faroe islands, 2014, Chris Burkard

Discovery, Joanne Hollings

In conclusion, Joanne Hollings' landscape photography in her "Earth in Frame" collection not only celebrates the beauty of nature but also becomes a catalyst for introspection and personal connection.

This work resonates with the same emotional power and respect for nature found in the works of contemporary masters such as Peter Lik and Chris Burkard, but with a unique and personal voice that reflects the challenges and aspirations of our time.