Photographing trees can be a profoundly rewarding experience, capturing their grandeur, textures, and the intricate interplay of light and shadow. Inspired by the techniques of renowned nature photographer Art Wolfe, this tutorial will guide you through capturing unique and compelling images of trees, even in challenging lighting conditions.

Understanding Light and Time of Day
Art Wolfe often emphasizes the importance of light in nature photography. The golden hours—shortly after sunrise and before sunset—offer soft, warm light that can dramatically enhance the textures and colors of trees. During these times, the low angle of the sun casts long shadows that add depth and dimension to your photographs. Midday light, on the other hand, tends to be harsher and can wash out colors and details. However, don’t be discouraged—overcast skies can be a boon for tree photography, providing even, diffused light that minimizes harsh contrasts and brings out subtle details.
Composition and Perspective
When photographing trees, consider their form, structure, and the environment they inhabit. Wolfe often uses a variety of perspectives to create dynamic compositions. Try shooting from ground level to emphasize the height and majesty of the trees, or from a higher vantage point to capture the intricate patterns of the canopy. Leading lines, such as a path or a row of trees, can guide the viewer’s eye through the image. Additionally, incorporating elements of the surrounding landscape can provide context and scale, enhancing the storytelling aspect of your photograph.
Tackling Challenging Lighting Conditions
Capturing trees under challenging lighting conditions requires creativity and technical skill. During high-contrast scenarios, such as bright sunlight filtering through leaves, use the interplay of light and shadow to create striking, high-contrast images. Silhouetting can be particularly effective—position yourself so that the light source is behind the tree, turning the tree into a dark shape against a bright background. For low-light conditions, such as in dense forests or during twilight, consider using a tripod to stabilize your camera for longer exposures. This will allow you to capture the ambient light without introducing blur.

Post-Processing Tips
Post-processing can enhance your tree photographs by accentuating details and correcting any lighting challenges. Wolfe often advocates for a natural look, so aim to enhance rather than over-process your images. Adjusting the contrast, brightness, and shadows can help bring out the textures and patterns in the bark and leaves. Fine-tuning the white balance can ensure that the colors remain true to life, while selective sharpening can highlight intricate details without making the image appear overly artificial.
By understanding the nuances of light, experimenting with composition, and embracing the challenges of different lighting conditions, you can capture the unique beauty of trees in your photographs. Every tree tells a story, and with these tips, inspired by Art Wolfe’s techniques, you’ll be well-equipped to convey that story through your lens.
Art Wolfe’s book on trees delves into capturing the beauty and essence of trees through photography. In this tutorial inspired by Wolfe’s techniques, emphasis is placed on understanding light and its significance in nature photography. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset are highlighted for their soft, warm light that enhances tree textures and colors. Wolfe’s approach to utilizing different perspectives and compositions, such as shooting from ground level or higher vantage points, is mentioned to create dynamic and captivating images of trees.
Read our interview with Art Wolfe on his book TREES, featured in Vol. 47 BEJournal.

Audiences interested in learning more about Art Wolfe’s style and techniques can explore his works through various channels. Wolfe’s official website, artwolfe.com, offers a wealth of information on his photography, workshops, and publications. Additionally, his books, including those focusing on trees and nature photography, provide in-depth insights into his creative process and visual storytelling methods. Those looking to further immerse themselves in Wolfe’s techniques can also consider attending his photography workshops or events, where they can gain practical experience and firsthand knowledge from the renowned nature photographer himself.
Header photo: © Art Wolfe. Giant sequoia grove (Sequoiadendron giganteum), Sequoia National Park, California USA. Fuji GX617, Fujinon 90mm lens, f/22 for 4 seconds, Fujichrome Velvia film 120 film.
Photographer’s Notes: As I drove through California’s Sequoia ational Park after an overnight snowfall, I was drawn toward this particular patch of forest. In most midlevel views of tree trunks, symmetry defines the scene, but in this particular case, it is all about color. The beautiful muted reds of the giant sequoias, the yellow lichen-shrouded firs, and the emerald green needles combine to create a colorful panorama. The second element that attracted my attention was the way the snow covered the forest floor, reflecting upward and providing a soft luminescence in the trees.