We landscape photographer tend to wait for the perfect light to take photograph...usually around the "Golden" hours. When a photo take during golden hour is posted on the forum it get acolades, OOOs and AAAs. The rest of the photos get HO...Hmmm reviews.
So this begs me to ask...Are landscape photographer blind to the beauty that surround them during mid day? Are we blinded by our passions that all we think about is capturing that next perfect sunset or sunrise that we ignore rest of the day? Or to that matter lack appreciations for the photograph and photographers who capture that perfect midday scene?
All comments welcome. Thanks in advance.
-Jay
Posted by Mark Stahlke on April 14, 2010 at 10:15 AM
A picture is worth a thousand words. This one comes from Wyoming's Wind River Range. Harsh light, blocked up shadows, nearly blown highlights - none of that bothers me. Not everyone shuns the midday sun.
The NPN school (or style) of landscape photography is heavily influenced by folks like Galen Rowell, John Shaw, David & Marc Muench, and even John Fielder. These are people who, in general, championed "Magic Hour" shooting so it's not surprising that NPN's landscapists favor these times of day. And the warm light is very pleasing too.
Galen Rowell's influence is also felt in the glamorization of the heroic nature photographer. People are proud of getting on the trail at 2:00 am and hiking ten miles to capture sunrise from a specific location. The more sacrifices made to get the shot the more we seem to appreciate it.
I'm not saying there is anything wrong with this. I'm just saying these are aspects of the NPN school of landscape photography. People participate here because they want to shoot that style of photography.
Now, to answer Jay's post. Those hours are OK. I am usually hiking during that time if I am out in the field or ideally swimming. I personally don't lose perspective on the beauty, given the nature of the light, it just doesn't usually lend itself well to fine art landscape photography. A couple of notable exceptions 1) Black and White Photgraphy 2) Overcast Days - great for stream shooting. (I've addressed that topic on my website for those who might want to check it out)
Overall though I think Mark's answer is very well articulated. I also think Jay you touch on something about the consuming nature of getting that A plus shot. I think a lot of landscape photography can be done in vain.
Most people on here have a natural desire to get recognized and want to get the best shots possible. If you monitor the weather forecasts, drive 5 hours somewhere, and then hike another 7 miles to get to a location only to find the light to be average at best - it can be disappointing. Although it is a reality we all have to deal with.
In summary, I can't speak for others and for myself I know that I do very much appreciate photography at any time of the day. Now, I am not going to say I find shots during that time as aesthetically pleasing as the golden hour shots. However, I appreciate the landscape just as much. I see its potential and helps me understand what it is about.
I don't get into too much of that subject here, I just throw in another thought:
In times of analog photography, it was often very difficult to catch the DR of an image during sunny days if there were any shadows involved. no matter how good you metered, the film just often couldn't handle it. negative film was the answer, but honestly, how many landscape shooter used it... in the digital age this will change for sure.
georg
Posted by Lon Overacker on April 14, 2010 at 12:36 PM
Jay,
I agree and understand where you're coming from to a point. But there are other things to consider rather than generalizing statements like the "NPN school of landscape photography," as if everyone here subscribes to the same types of images. I'm guessing a large portion of photographers also photograph at mid day. But I'm also assuming that after a weekend shoot and weeding through those 1,0000 captures (or 50 for me...) you're going to pull out your best work, or work you want feedback on, and share it with the community. Right? Doesn't mean folks didn't take beautiful sunny day images like your posting during their outing? We can only show a few images from a photo outing and I'm sure folks have many more in their files and I'll bet a lot of them are in mid day light.
To me it's like the icon shots. Icons are icons because they're fascinating nature displays; they're beautiful and captivating. Sunsets/sunrises are beautiful and I don't know anyone that doesn't enjoy the transition of light and color at those times. Why not try and capture those moments?
Personally, I can and do shoot all day long. I will look for comps and scenes that suit my eye and mood.
Maybe this is a poor analogy, but think of an NFL football game. Highlights from any game or sporting event for that matter, show the dramatic, game-ending, toe-on-the-line, one-handed endzone catch, over and over again. You never see the 1 yard run in to middle of the line on the evening sportscast. Is the 1yrd running play any less important to the outcome of the game? no. People want to see the dramatic. I think that's true in photography. Doesn't make it right or wrong, it's just the way it is.
To get to one of your questions, "Are landscape photographer blind to the beauty that surround them during mid day?" No, I don't think so. Can't speak for anyone else, but I love being in nature, which of course is what drives my photography. I'm content laying in a meadow at mid day and absorbing the beauty, appreciating the beauty. I may also say, this particular scene would be too washed out, or whatever the case or conditions might be. I may shoot, I may not. But am I blind to the beauty??? I sure hope not. And I don't think most photographers are either.
Here's a mid day image. My best? no, but it's still pretty and I enjoy it.
Lon
edit: I must apologize because the quote I mentioned was Mark's and not Jay's. I'll leave the comment as is, but I know now that Jay isn't the one who wrote that and the context is a little different in Mark's post.
I almost never photograph after the sweet light is gone but I wouldn't say that I don't appreciate the beauty of the rest of the day. Instead, I think I realize that my camera isn't going to convey that beauty as well during the mid-day light so I just soak it all in and enjoy the views, knowing that this time of day is for my viewing pleasure alone.
"Personally, I can and do shoot all day long. I will look for comps and scenes that suit my eye and mood."
Same, here. Sometimes, all it takes is moving to the other side of the tree.
Am I blind to the beauty just because the light isn't just right? I can state, quite unequivocally; no! Like Lon, I am pefectly content to sit on a rock in the sunshine and, as John Muir said, "Get the glad tidings."
We landscape photographer tend to wait for the perfect light to take photograph...usually around the "Golden" hours.
It seems like you (already) consider the perfect light for making landscape pictures to be that which is found during the golden hours.
When it comes to my own work, I chose the light based on the subject and how I want to portray it. Sometimes I find what I am looking for at sunrise/sunset, sometimes during other times of the day. There are times when I just can't seem to find the right light for my needs; in such cases I end up not making any pictures.
Posted by Jim Hackley on April 14, 2010 at 4:37 PM
An interesting question but one that I think depends on the person and what they are trying to achieve in their photography. I personally believe that good images can be taken at anytime of the day. For me, is it about what you are seeing and experiencing at that moment, no matter what time of day it is. If I get a good image great, if not, no big deal. The best part is just getting out in nature, sometimes some amazing things happen that you would never experience unless you got out in the first place.
Jim
Posted by Mel Ladewig on April 14, 2010 at 7:37 PM
I look for opportunities to shoot all day. I shoot in overcast conditions, canyons and even bright sunshine if the subject calls for it. Colorful water often demands mid-day sunlight to give its best. Slot canyons need high angle sun to get their glow going. Light overcast conditions create great softbox lighting for intimate landscapes.
PS- try shooting color negative, it can absolutely transform your ideas on when you can and cannot shoot and it can take luminosity contrast out of the equation, allowing you to focus on color contrast, shape, etc...
Posted by Eva McDermott on April 14, 2010 at 10:41 PM
I am posting this on NPN tonight. So we will see. I do find images I post that were taken in mid day, unless abstract do get little attention with regards to comments and views. So we will see.
BTW - The sun is to my back over my right shoulder. This was taken at 11:30AM Atlantic time.
I would say 80% of the photos I take are NOT taken during the golden hours but the ones I post here and on other sites are taken at either sunrise or sunset because those are the ones that get noticed.
Galen Rowell's influence is also felt in the glamorization of the heroic nature photographer. People are proud of getting on the trail at 2:00 am and hiking ten miles to capture sunrise from a specific location. The more sacrifices made to get the shot the more we seem to appreciate it. - Yes I have seen this happen more often then I like to admit....not only at NPN, but other photography sites as well.
Even for those of us (and I am including myself in the group) who say that they appreciate natural beauty of the surroundings all day long, we dont seem to appreciate it enough capture it on the camera. When some of us do post photos of midday light...the comments are reserved and limited at best (and critical at best). A bit hypocritical if you ask me...and again myself included.
The question that keeps bothering me is this: How should an effective workshop be conducted? Should I as an effective instructor ignore the midday shots and promote the style of the gurus like "Galen Rowell, John Shaw, David & Marc Muench, and even John Fielder"? Or should I break away from the heard of sheep following the leaders and teach them to see beauty even at midday? Dont get me wrong...I am not suggesting that we I will ignore the "Golden Hours". I am asking that is it worth promoting midday shooting at the workshops even if the photos receive taken at midday are regarded as "Ho-Hum" photographs?
I've got a fair amount of midday photos I'm very happy with, but usually you wouldn't realize that they're taken midday looking at them. I believe a major part of a workshop should be teaching the participants how to see and use any kind of light. Or rather, a subtle but important distinction, understanding under what lighting conditions your subject will look best, and make sure to have some subjects planned out that will look best at midday. Sure, grand landscapes will typically look "Ho-Hum" at noon, but what about other subjects? Seek out reflected light or shade, subjects that thrive in full sun, etc. Or if all else fails, just create some shade or reflected light. Consider Guy Tal's work... the majority of which was taken outside of the "golden hour". Of course, that's a little easier in canyon country Personally, I find many on these and other boards put too much emphasis on pretty sunrises and sunsets...
Here's one taken about 3-4 hours before sunset.
Oh yea, I'm definitely a bit jaded.. and won't photograph unless I think the light is ideal. Fortunately I'm good at planning my trips so that I'm in 'ideal' light for my chosen subjects almost all day long so not only do I get to simply appreciate my surroundings, but I get to photograph them too!
sorry for abusing this thread to post a shot, but this is one example where it even works to an advantage, that the image was taken in midday sun. but its not easy to do.
(stewart island south of NZ)
georg
Interesting comments and I think a majority our on board with the mentality of subject to light priority. That being said its definitely different for me. I have a full time job and other common commitments so my photographic ventures are limited. If I have an opportunity to go out shooting I just make the best of where I'm at and the light. I don't have the limited freedom to pick any time and shoot. I do plan wisely and take into account weather and such when shooting. It seems Im usually out during wet, overcast, or pre/post storm conditions. This just seems to suite my subjects best. There is a attitude that must go with it. Being thankful and enjoying your surroundings is key. Take opportunities as they come and be specific about what conditions your subjects look best in. This is of course probably repeated advice but it seems strong.
Don't want to abuse the thread either but this one was taken about 11:00am. The strong light played nice to the floating leaves passing by a smokies river. Color was key here and the overhead light helped extract that I believe.
Thanks everyone for your advice here as well.
Are landscape photographer blind to the beauty that surround them during mid day? Are we blinded by our passions that all we think about is capturing that next perfect sunset or sunrise that we ignore rest of the day?
Absolutely not! At the very least I'm using midday to simply explore and enjoy, even if the pics aren't happening. But I usually find lack of good pics at midday is more a measure of me and my creativity than the landscape or viewers of my photos. I just take different types of pictures to match the lighting situation.
Heck, I often start enjoying myself so much that I forget to use the camera come evening and that "perfect" light.
Posted by Jeff Loomis on April 15, 2010 at 11:34 AM
This is an interesting topic, Comments have been insightful and have forced me to do some self-examination. As a fairly new photographer, I have definitely been influenced by all the talk of the 'golden hour'. But that has resulted in some of my best images as well.
With my limited experience, it seems it is easier to get the correct exposure in early/late light. Mid-day is harsh light and I struggle to keep the highlights in check and still end up with blocked out shadows. I would say I appreciate mid-day beauty, but am intimidated by the thought of trying to capture it effectively. My solution has been to shoot landscapes early and late, and then switch to flowers or macros mid-day.
As for workshops, they usually want time to process images for later critiquing and mid-day is simply the logical choice. Anyway, that's my two cents. Look forward to reading more responses
But I usually find lack of good pics at midday is more a measure of me and my creativity than the landscape or viewers of my photos. I just take different types of pictures to match the lighting situation.
Refreshingly honest opinion...I have to agree to this myself. I am starting to approach thing differently. Yeah, we use time at Midday to critique and go over previous session images but this gives an indirect message to the students: "Don't waste your time shooting at Midday".
I want to see if I can make a conscious effort to break this lack of creativity.
I'll go one step further and say I have a serious onus sitting on my landscape shoulders: Bald blue skies. I hate em and have more trouble with them than with midday light. As a result I seem to be most active and creative when there are a few airborne marshmallows hanging around, or better yet an approaching or departing storm. I'll chase clouds and storm light all over tarnation rather than sit still for the bald blues.
Posted by Paul Duval on April 16, 2010 at 12:39 AM
Jay,
Thanks for this entertaining a informative thread. I have noticed recently that more midday images are finding their way into posts. Wildflowers especially seem to shine under these light conditions. In fact California Poppies start to fold their petals hours before sunset.
Paul
Posted by Bill Chambers on April 16, 2010 at 9:49 AM
OK, I admit it, I shoot probably 90% of my images during the "sweet light" of early morning or late afternoon/evening/night, unless it's overcast or rainy. I use the middle of the day to scout future locations or to just take it easy. When I'm on the road I'm usually up at 4:00 am or so, and I may not stop shooting until 10:00 pm or later, so many times I will take a snooze during midday, after I enjoy a nice, relaxing lunch or something. Regardless of whether I'm shooting or not, I find just being outdoors among nature sublimely satisfying.
Jay,
Good question, that I think the title of this thread answers for the most part. "The pursuit of passion" is verything in my opinion. If the kind of images that satisffy one's passion are those in the "sweet light" why not spend your time pursuing those. I myself am not all that excited about the results of the images I take midday. That doesn't mean that I can't change my approach/subject to improve those results. Someone else might find the same images that are unappealing to me, to be quite beautiful. But for me, to be up very early and shoot until 9or 10 means that I like to just kind of chill out for awhile afterwards. or to move from one location to another, or scout out comps for the end of the day. I figure if I can ever get "passionate" about midday light, I will devote more of my time pursuing images during that time. I don't mind seeing great shots taken at anytime of day, in any kind of light. I just pursue what makes me happy, and what I'm better at. I find that passion makes one apply themselves more to the craft. Without passion, the images are just mediocre at best. So I don't want to spend my time pursuing something I'm not passionate about, producing even more mediocre shots than I do during the sweet light hours. But those that want to raise midday shooting to another level, should definately go for it.
Posted by Steve Sieren on April 28, 2010 at 2:38 PM
Jay, All these guys (Galen Rowell, John Shaw, David & Marc Muench) have shot and taught at midday, cloudy weather and other non golden hour light .
If you're trying to avoid a class room have them shoot all day. I heard of John Shaw sticking people out there in crappiest of light just so they can learn structure in composition and remove the perception you have of certain photographers. I also have that perception that some photogs out there only shoot when the sun is near the horizon. Trying to change that perception in a harsh lit desert above ground with out shade would be more difficult then in an orange canyon.
How many shutters have you heard in the canyons of Utah during the midday light? Way too many. It seems to be more of choice between where and when the good light is opposed to bad timing for light at a given location.
In the end I just see to much other light everywhere on the net
I think we as landscape photographers are more sensitive or susceptible to photos taken at golden hours because we know the efforts involved in making those kind of images (sleep on location, geting up early, hiking a lot, etc). And that´s the reason why a "memorable" photo shoted at midday sun is not easy to do for us, or harder to appreciate it´s value.
There are lots of great photos around taken at midday, the difficult thing is to learn and training our brains to aprreciate them.
Discussion
23 repliesSo this begs me to ask...Are landscape photographer blind to the beauty that surround them during mid day? Are we blinded by our passions that all we think about is capturing that next perfect sunset or sunrise that we ignore rest of the day? Or to that matter lack appreciations for the photograph and photographers who capture that perfect midday scene?
All comments welcome. Thanks in advance.
-Jay
The NPN school (or style) of landscape photography is heavily influenced by folks like Galen Rowell, John Shaw, David & Marc Muench, and even John Fielder. These are people who, in general, championed "Magic Hour" shooting so it's not surprising that NPN's landscapists favor these times of day. And the warm light is very pleasing too.
Galen Rowell's influence is also felt in the glamorization of the heroic nature photographer. People are proud of getting on the trail at 2:00 am and hiking ten miles to capture sunrise from a specific location. The more sacrifices made to get the shot the more we seem to appreciate it.
I'm not saying there is anything wrong with this. I'm just saying these are aspects of the NPN school of landscape photography. People participate here because they want to shoot that style of photography.
Now, to answer Jay's post. Those hours are OK. I am usually hiking during that time if I am out in the field or ideally swimming. I personally don't lose perspective on the beauty, given the nature of the light, it just doesn't usually lend itself well to fine art landscape photography. A couple of notable exceptions 1) Black and White Photgraphy 2) Overcast Days - great for stream shooting. (I've addressed that topic on my website for those who might want to check it out)
Overall though I think Mark's answer is very well articulated. I also think Jay you touch on something about the consuming nature of getting that A plus shot. I think a lot of landscape photography can be done in vain.
Most people on here have a natural desire to get recognized and want to get the best shots possible. If you monitor the weather forecasts, drive 5 hours somewhere, and then hike another 7 miles to get to a location only to find the light to be average at best - it can be disappointing. Although it is a reality we all have to deal with.
In summary, I can't speak for others and for myself I know that I do very much appreciate photography at any time of the day. Now, I am not going to say I find shots during that time as aesthetically pleasing as the golden hour shots. However, I appreciate the landscape just as much. I see its potential and helps me understand what it is about.
In times of analog photography, it was often very difficult to catch the DR of an image during sunny days if there were any shadows involved. no matter how good you metered, the film just often couldn't handle it. negative film was the answer, but honestly, how many landscape shooter used it... in the digital age this will change for sure.
georg
I agree and understand where you're coming from to a point. But there are other things to consider rather than generalizing statements like the "NPN school of landscape photography," as if everyone here subscribes to the same types of images. I'm guessing a large portion of photographers also photograph at mid day. But I'm also assuming that after a weekend shoot and weeding through those 1,0000 captures (or 50 for me...) you're going to pull out your best work, or work you want feedback on, and share it with the community. Right? Doesn't mean folks didn't take beautiful sunny day images like your posting during their outing? We can only show a few images from a photo outing and I'm sure folks have many more in their files and I'll bet a lot of them are in mid day light.
To me it's like the icon shots. Icons are icons because they're fascinating nature displays; they're beautiful and captivating. Sunsets/sunrises are beautiful and I don't know anyone that doesn't enjoy the transition of light and color at those times. Why not try and capture those moments?
Personally, I can and do shoot all day long. I will look for comps and scenes that suit my eye and mood.
Maybe this is a poor analogy, but think of an NFL football game. Highlights from any game or sporting event for that matter, show the dramatic, game-ending, toe-on-the-line, one-handed endzone catch, over and over again. You never see the 1 yard run in to middle of the line on the evening sportscast. Is the 1yrd running play any less important to the outcome of the game? no. People want to see the dramatic. I think that's true in photography. Doesn't make it right or wrong, it's just the way it is.
To get to one of your questions, "Are landscape photographer blind to the beauty that surround them during mid day?" No, I don't think so. Can't speak for anyone else, but I love being in nature, which of course is what drives my photography. I'm content laying in a meadow at mid day and absorbing the beauty, appreciating the beauty. I may also say, this particular scene would be too washed out, or whatever the case or conditions might be. I may shoot, I may not. But am I blind to the beauty??? I sure hope not. And I don't think most photographers are either.
Here's a mid day image. My best? no, but it's still pretty and I enjoy it.
Lon
edit: I must apologize because the quote I mentioned was Mark's and not Jay's. I'll leave the comment as is, but I know now that Jay isn't the one who wrote that and the context is a little different in Mark's post.
Same, here. Sometimes, all it takes is moving to the other side of the tree.
Am I blind to the beauty just because the light isn't just right? I can state, quite unequivocally; no! Like Lon, I am pefectly content to sit on a rock in the sunshine and, as John Muir said, "Get the glad tidings."
--P
It seems like you (already) consider the perfect light for making landscape pictures to be that which is found during the golden hours.
When it comes to my own work, I chose the light based on the subject and how I want to portray it. Sometimes I find what I am looking for at sunrise/sunset, sometimes during other times of the day. There are times when I just can't seem to find the right light for my needs; in such cases I end up not making any pictures.
Jim
PS- try shooting color negative, it can absolutely transform your ideas on when you can and cannot shoot and it can take luminosity contrast out of the equation, allowing you to focus on color contrast, shape, etc...
BTW - The sun is to my back over my right shoulder. This was taken at 11:30AM Atlantic time.
I would say 80% of the photos I take are NOT taken during the golden hours but the ones I post here and on other sites are taken at either sunrise or sunset because those are the ones that get noticed.
Galen Rowell's influence is also felt in the glamorization of the heroic nature photographer. People are proud of getting on the trail at 2:00 am and hiking ten miles to capture sunrise from a specific location. The more sacrifices made to get the shot the more we seem to appreciate it. - Yes I have seen this happen more often then I like to admit....not only at NPN, but other photography sites as well.
Even for those of us (and I am including myself in the group) who say that they appreciate natural beauty of the surroundings all day long, we dont seem to appreciate it enough capture it on the camera. When some of us do post photos of midday light...the comments are reserved and limited at best (and critical at best). A bit hypocritical if you ask me...and again myself included.
The question that keeps bothering me is this: How should an effective workshop be conducted? Should I as an effective instructor ignore the midday shots and promote the style of the gurus like "Galen Rowell, John Shaw, David & Marc Muench, and even John Fielder"? Or should I break away from the heard of sheep following the leaders and teach them to see beauty even at midday? Dont get me wrong...I am not suggesting that we I will ignore the "Golden Hours". I am asking that is it worth promoting midday shooting at the workshops even if the photos receive taken at midday are regarded as "Ho-Hum" photographs?
Thanks for taking time to respond.
-Jay
Here's one taken about 3-4 hours before sunset.
Oh yea, I'm definitely a bit jaded.. and won't photograph unless I think the light is ideal. Fortunately I'm good at planning my trips so that I'm in 'ideal' light for my chosen subjects almost all day long so not only do I get to simply appreciate my surroundings, but I get to photograph them too!
(stewart island south of NZ)
georg
Interesting comments and I think a majority our on board with the mentality of subject to light priority. That being said its definitely different for me. I have a full time job and other common commitments so my photographic ventures are limited. If I have an opportunity to go out shooting I just make the best of where I'm at and the light. I don't have the limited freedom to pick any time and shoot. I do plan wisely and take into account weather and such when shooting. It seems Im usually out during wet, overcast, or pre/post storm conditions. This just seems to suite my subjects best. There is a attitude that must go with it. Being thankful and enjoying your surroundings is key. Take opportunities as they come and be specific about what conditions your subjects look best in. This is of course probably repeated advice but it seems strong.
Don't want to abuse the thread either but this one was taken about 11:00am. The strong light played nice to the floating leaves passing by a smokies river. Color was key here and the overhead light helped extract that I believe.
Thanks everyone for your advice here as well.
Absolutely not! At the very least I'm using midday to simply explore and enjoy, even if the pics aren't happening. But I usually find lack of good pics at midday is more a measure of me and my creativity than the landscape or viewers of my photos. I just take different types of pictures to match the lighting situation.
Heck, I often start enjoying myself so much that I forget to use the camera come evening and that "perfect" light.
With my limited experience, it seems it is easier to get the correct exposure in early/late light. Mid-day is harsh light and I struggle to keep the highlights in check and still end up with blocked out shadows. I would say I appreciate mid-day beauty, but am intimidated by the thought of trying to capture it effectively. My solution has been to shoot landscapes early and late, and then switch to flowers or macros mid-day.
As for workshops, they usually want time to process images for later critiquing and mid-day is simply the logical choice. Anyway, that's my two cents. Look forward to reading more responses
Refreshingly honest opinion...I have to agree to this myself. I am starting to approach thing differently. Yeah, we use time at Midday to critique and go over previous session images but this gives an indirect message to the students: "Don't waste your time shooting at Midday".
I want to see if I can make a conscious effort to break this lack of creativity.
-Jay
Thanks for this entertaining a informative thread. I have noticed recently that more midday images are finding their way into posts. Wildflowers especially seem to shine under these light conditions. In fact California Poppies start to fold their petals hours before sunset.
Paul
Good question, that I think the title of this thread answers for the most part. "The pursuit of passion" is verything in my opinion. If the kind of images that satisffy one's passion are those in the "sweet light" why not spend your time pursuing those. I myself am not all that excited about the results of the images I take midday. That doesn't mean that I can't change my approach/subject to improve those results. Someone else might find the same images that are unappealing to me, to be quite beautiful. But for me, to be up very early and shoot until 9or 10 means that I like to just kind of chill out for awhile afterwards. or to move from one location to another, or scout out comps for the end of the day. I figure if I can ever get "passionate" about midday light, I will devote more of my time pursuing images during that time. I don't mind seeing great shots taken at anytime of day, in any kind of light. I just pursue what makes me happy, and what I'm better at. I find that passion makes one apply themselves more to the craft. Without passion, the images are just mediocre at best. So I don't want to spend my time pursuing something I'm not passionate about, producing even more mediocre shots than I do during the sweet light hours.
If you're trying to avoid a class room have them shoot all day. I heard of John Shaw sticking people out there in crappiest of light just so they can learn structure in composition and remove the perception you have of certain photographers. I also have that perception that some photogs out there only shoot when the sun is near the horizon. Trying to change that perception in a harsh lit desert above ground with out shade would be more difficult then in an orange canyon.
How many shutters have you heard in the canyons of Utah during the midday light? Way too many. It seems to be more of choice between where and when the good light is opposed to bad timing for light at a given location.
In the end I just see to much other light everywhere on the net
There are lots of great photos around taken at midday, the difficult thing is to learn and training our brains to aprreciate them.