Landscape Photography Magazine

“Some of us have been photographing at high altitudes and probably others are planning to do so. In this article, Simon Watkinson is sharing some really good advice”

Landscape photography drives me to some far-flung places, but none more severe than that of high altitude. High altitude brings all sorts of problems, but possibly the worst one is acute mountain sickness (AMS). In this article I should like to explain how high altitude affects us, and the dangers it can bring to our health. Also, how we can take positive steps to prevent AMS and what to do if you or a colleague has it.

A lot of people are under the misconception that there is a lack of oxygen at altitude, but that is not the case. The problems arise because of the lack of air pressure; the pressure at sea level actually forces air into our lungs. For every 1000 metres higher than sea level, the air pressure drops by about a tenth. Approaching heights of 5000 metres means that you are taking into the lungs approximately half the amount of air required.

The all important component of air is…