Lost in More Ways Than One

I follow the work of a number of photographers who either specialise in or produce woodland photography. It’s a genre of photography that amazes me. I can appreciate the art form and the skill required to not only technically capture the image, but to also find the composition.

I know that mastering woodland photocomposition is a skill because I try it myself every now and again and fail miserably. The photographs that feature in this bit-size blog are example of how I struggle with the art of woodland photography.

Haldon Forest #1, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 at 33mm, f/4.8, 1/400th sec at ISO 2500. — **Haldon Forest #1, Devon** - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 at 33mm, f/4.8, 1/400th sec at ISO 2500.

Until lockdown kicked in at the start of January, I had been visiting Haldon Forest to walk my dog, Monty. Through my exploration of this extensive woodland, I came across several views that I thought might make for a good photograph.

When I returned with the camera though I was presented with the harsh reality of how hard it is to turn a nice woodland view into a compelling photograph. If I consider this problem, it’s no different from turning up to a big wide-open vista on Dartmoor and not knowing how to create a photograph from it. It’s just that I have a little more skill and practice with capturing that type of photograph.

Haldon Forest #2, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 at 170mm, f/6.3, 0.6 sec at ISO 64. — **Haldon Forest #2, Devon** - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 at 170mm, f/6.3, 0.6 sec at ISO 64.

I’m not foolish enough to think that I can just swan up to a woodland and start capturing amazing images. Like any form or genre of photography, it requires an investment in time to become proficient and I certainly haven’t spent anywhere near enough time practicing my woodland photography.

Haldon Forest #3, Devon - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 at 130mm, f/6.3, 1/5th sec at ISO 64. — **Haldon Forest #3, Devon** - Nikon Z7, Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 at 130mm, f/6.3, 1/5th sec at ISO 64.

While the “practice” images in this blog post will not win me any awards they do remind me of the fun I had capturing them. There are many things I love about photography but perhaps the most rewarding thing is just being outdoors and experiencing nature. I just hope I can get back to nature soon.