Setting your camera on the ground and using the articulated LCD screen to compose provides two benefits for landscape photography.

Ground level view of redwood tree opening. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. Photo by Derrick Story.

First, it often provides a more dynamic perspective. Compare the top image, which was captured at ground level, to the image below, which was shot at normal standing height.

Standing height view of redwood tree opening. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. Photo by Derrick Story.

In many ways, these feel like two completely different shots. I'm not saying that the ground level image will be the best every time. But you have to admit, this is a "two for one" opportunity.

The second benefit is that setting the camera on the ground provides more stability during exposure. This is particularly helpful if the shutter speed is a big longish because you're trying to maximize depth of field by stopping down the aperture.

I watched people take a picture of this scene while I was scouting for my upcoming TDS Humboldt Redwoods workshop. Not one of them shot at ground level. So I guess a third benefit is that your stuff will look different than everyone else's.

You can share your thoughts at the TDS Facebook page, where I'll post this story for discussion.