Photographing forests isn’t always straightforward. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the dense trees, tangled branches, and layers of textures that can make it difficult to find a clear shot. The forest can seem chaotic, but with a few simple techniques, you can transform a seemingly complex scene into a captivating photograph.
Coming to you from Alister Benn, this insightful video shows how to make the most of challenging forest scenes. Benn begins with a critical tip: simplify. Forests are visually cluttered by nature, so finding a focal point is essential. Benn often chooses a panoramic crop, such as 65x24, to eliminate distracting sky and foreground, allowing the viewer to focus on the main elements. By isolating just the essential parts, you reveal details that might otherwise get lost in the visual noise. Benn emphasizes that when you simplify, you’re free to hone in on colors, textures, and shapes that define the scene.
Benn’s second tip is all about pacing yourself. Forests have a way of drawing you in, but if you rush, you’re likely to miss great shots. He suggests taking time to just stand still and absorb the surroundings. During a pause on a steep climb, Benn discovered a simple yet striking composition by looking between two trees, which created a sense of depth. He explains that slowing down not only gives you time to see details but also lets you connect with the environment in a way that leads to more thoughtful compositions. It’s this slower approach that brings out the forest’s hidden elements.
Another essential technique Benn covers is focusing on the small details. Forests are filled with unique textures and patterns that can add a lot to an image if you zoom in and capture them individually. For instance, he photographs a small green streak on a tree trunk, bringing attention to an otherwise overlooked detail. This approach transforms an expansive scene into a collection of intimate, detailed shots. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Benn.
And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out our latest tutorial, "Photographing the World: Japan II - Discovering Hidden Gems with Elia Locardi!”
