These are selection of images taken during September in the local woods and forests. They represent the start of the autumn photography and a practice run for the widespread displays of colour that show in October and November.
The locations were Blidworth Woods and the Foxcovert and Watchwood Plantations, which are part of the wider Sherwood Forest area, and a mix of coniferous plantations and broadleaf woodlands.
At this early stage of the season there was still a lot of green leaves showing with the occasional glimpses of autumn colour, particularly from the birch trees.
Before showing the results, I thought I would clarify what I mean by a photography practice run and more to the point, whether it is necessary to practice photography.
Broadly, I think any activity which includes an outcome benefits from practice and photography is no different in that respect.
Woodlands and forest, for example, can be visually overwhelming making it hard to know where to start. Practice helps acclimatise the eye and reduce the complexity. It also gives an insight into the best parts of the wood to visit including the different types of tree which is important when judging the right time for autumn colours.
From a technical point of view the practice helps decide the best camera and lens for the circumstances, how to control the exposures both in low light and bright sunshine, whether to use a tripod or to handhold the camera, and usefully, how to quickly alter the settings and respond to changing conditions.
As a rule, I like to have all the technicalities sorted before the 'main event' so I can concentrate solely on composition. Of course, none of this guarantees success but it does improve the chances of achieving good results and I think this applies regardless of experience.
These were some of my practice outcomes:
Birch Trees
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