Beginners Guide to Woodland Photography

The time is deep spring and the forest is dense, the canopy of trees disguising the sunlight. There are man made trail signs, and Tom chooses the easy access route. You want to make sure you follow the trail and how to return to the starting point. Tom dresses warm in a down jacket and waterproof boots, wears a backpack for his gear, and carries plenty of food and water. He packs a full frame camera body, a telephoto lens, a wide angle lens, and a polarizing filter. Finally, for woodland photography, he suggests you carry a tall sturdy tripod that allows you to shoot from head high.

For his first image, Tom uses the trail as the leading line to a stand of beach trees bathing in a bed of purple flowers. When you are shooting woodland photography, always check the forest floor. As an example, Tom finds a stunning spread of bluebell flowers as an invitation for close or wide shots.

In woodland photography, you try looking for soft light, composition, shapes, textures and colors. Walk toward the light. Natural lighting can reveal an amazing blend of natural colors. Color is always your friend. As the day goes on and the light gets harsher, try to focus in on close images: tree bark, flower petals, dried leaves, ferns, and backlighting.

As a beginner in woodland photography, you want to leave the forest with a variety of composition choices. In this premium video, Outdoor Photography Guide’s Tom Peters guides you through the preparation and process for how to be ready when a photographic opportunity reveals itself.