Some people think great landscape photographers are just lucky, always at the right place at the right time. The reality is great landscape photographers are persistent. Making portfolio-worthy images often entails repeat visits to areas to find the ideal composition paired with stunning conditions.

With all the fantastic pictures being posted online, it is easy to think everyone is having an easy time just heading out and capturing these images on the first go. But in this video, we get some behind-the-scenes with Michael Shainblum as he revisits a location for the eleventh time to try and finally get the photograph he wants.

Shainblum opens the video explaining how, on all his previous visits, the seascape he is visiting has either been in the rain or the fog, with no chance of a colorful sunset. Now, on his eleventh visit to this area, the weather might cooperate for the sunset image he has been after.

We follow Shainblum as he scouts out the composition for the photograph. He takes care to consider where the sun will set so he can balance the elements in the frame with the setting sun. We also gain insight into his exposure technique for capturing the moving water among the rocks and the proper exposure for the sky.

I enjoyed following along in this video and watching Shainblum’s process. I also take comfort in knowing I am not the only one who doesn’t always get the photograph the first, second, or even third time!