How to Take Pictures of Corn Fields

Location

1). Map out all of the locations you plan to visit. This can be done by researching local growers or remembering a particular location you have recently driven past. The majority of corn fields are in the Midwestern states, but there are a multitude of farmers who grow corn in just about every state.
2). Time your departure according to your photography plans. If you'd like to take advantage of sunrise, find out exactly when that will occur and give yourself plenty of time to arrive and get situated. Load your car with your map, gas, snacks and photography materials such as camera, tripod, stepladder and flashlight.
3). Ask the owner of the farm for permission to take photos, as it is a violation to trespass on private property. Most folks will be pleased that you have given the respect to ask. It will make your photography experience much more enjoyable, knowing that everyone is OK with your presence on the property.
4). Scope the perimeter of the property that you've been granted permission to explore. Look for mesmerizing patterns of corn stalks, in whatever stage they might be in their growth.

1). Decide which area of rows you will be shooting and from what distance. You can take several varieties of shots from each location. One can be focusing on the nearest stalk or leaf and allowing the remaining plants to disappear into a blur, while another can be focusing on a distant barn, where the rows will blend together as one spectacular force.
2). Locate sturdy ground on which to set up your tripod. Set up your tripod and mount the camera. When the shutter of your camera is open, the tiniest of movements your hand makes are enough to make a slightly blurry image.
3). Relocate your tripod and add other colorful elements to the shot such as the sky, distant wind generators or sprinkler systems. If there is a breeze, try to capture the blowing leaves of the stalks.

1). Remove the camera from the tripod and set the flash to automatic. Walk between the rows of stalks to find a spot on the ground to lie down or sit. If it happens to be later in the day, near dusk, be sure to bring the flashlight with you, for safety purposes.
2). Situate yourself to be as still and relaxed as possible. Turn your head and body around until you can find an interesting image as you peer straight up into the sky through the stalks.
3). Head back to the car and exchange the tripod for the stepladder. Scout out a sturdy location near the rows of corn and set it up. Use the stepladder to get an overhead shot of the stalks, depending on how tall they are in comparison to your own height.
4). Visualize the tops of the stalks as a sea of living plants, and allow the breeze to create ripples and waves. Take a variety of photos with the flash on and off, as many of them will be blurry from balancing on the ladder and not using a tripod.
5). Recapture the shots that most intrigued you as dusk approaches and the natural light changes. It is the most wonderful time of day to get heavenly shots that are very professional looking. Be sure to have your flashlight with you at all times.