A
ustralia is home to some of the most extensive
areas of subtropical rainforest in the world.
These protected environments are often the
highlight of many international visitors who
travel thousands of kilometres to experience the unique f lora
and fauna. The best part about these botanical wonders is
that there’s always something new to discover and they make
ultimate subjects for nature photographers. Over the years I’ve
developed a strong connection for these natural environments
and I will happily say some of my best work has come from
countless hours of trekking through these lush environments
in search of those raw and beautiful moments. Here are 10
basic, but important tips to help you get the most out of your
shooting time in a rainforest.01
Best time to shoot
Shooting in a rainforest is all about timing.
It’s best to be in a forest is when it’s overcast or raining.
But it’s a common mistake to assume clear skies and sunshine
are the best time, and this is frequently not the case. On an
overcast day the clouds act as giant diffuser, softening the
light, which helps prevent harsh highlights and deep shadows.
If there’s moisture in the air you’ll also most likely find mist
enveloping the forest, which is ideal for capturing those
atmospheric shots. Unfortunately it isn’t always possible to be
in the forest when it’s overcast or raining. If you’re holidaying,
you may not get the conditions you would like. As a general
rule of thumb it’s a good idea to visit early in the morning
when the light is low and the air is cooler. This will give youa better chance to capture something more subdued, without
the distractions of harsh light and shadows, and any early mist
will only add to the atmosphere.02
What lenses to pack
Wide-angle zoom lenses have several advantages in a
rainforest. Firstly, they exaggerate a sense of perspective, which
can help give the viewer a sense of being in the middle of the
forest. Another advantage is the ability this type of lens offers
to capture everything in the frame. For example it’s great when
shooting from a low angle and looking up at the canopy.
The downside is the wide-angle distortion on the edges of the
picture. Trees can sometimes appear like they’re falling into frame.
But you can make this work in your favour if you have a strong28 AUSTRALIANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
Jungle
Shoot
HOW TO Shoot Great Rainforest Images
Shooting in any type of
forest has challenges,
but they are critical in a
rainforest. Drew Hopper
explains how to improve
your images when you’reunder the canopy.
AUSTRALIAN PHOTOGRAPHY + DIGITAL JULY 2015RIGHT
Ancient World
Heritage rainforest
is shrouded in
afternoon mist as
the sunlight breaks
through the canopy
and illuminates
lush foliage in
Dorrigo National
Park, NSW. Canon
5D Mk II, Canon
17-40mm f/4 @
17mm, ISO 100,
6s @ f/13, circular
polariser and tripod.
Contrast, curves,
levels, clarity, colour
balance adjusted
in Lightroom 5.
Lens correction,
perspective,
dodge/burn and
sharpening adjusted
in Photoshop CS5