Landscape Photography + Gradients

One of the first things we are taught in Graphic Design 101 is to beware of the gradients. Gradient generically laid over a background is an easy cop out. 


However I came across today and interesting series of photographs by Robert Schlaug. He stretched out the colors of the landscapes to create linear gradients in different portions of the photographs. I am attracted to the photos where the gradient begins at the horizon line, creating an abstract background such as this one:





This image is my favorite because of the color combination and even though the sky is obviously a gradient, I think it works well in the photo. The other images are worth a look as well. You can find them here:


http://blog.gessato.com/2012/03/27/landscape-photography-by-robert-schlaug/