Sycamore Tree Bark, Manassas Battlefield, Virginia
Every once in a while, often when I can’t find anything else to photograph, I turn to tree bark as a subject. The bark of trees usually has unique patterns that can make for interesting photos, and since trees don’t move and their trunks don’t change, they can be photographed just about whenever you please. This makes photographing tree trunks a great way to be productive when other subjects are scarce. Another nice thing about trees is that they are big and strong and just about everywhere in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, making them easy to find and easy to photograph even on breezy days when it would be nearly impossible to get a sharp shot of other macro subjects. Tree bark can also be photographed in just about any light, as harsh light and side light can do wonders for emphasizing the texture in some subjects, while soft light allows the fine details of the bark to shine through.
There are a few species of trees that have particularly interesting bark which I hope to photograph. The sycamore tree, easily recognized by its blotchy bark containing patches of white, tan, and brown color, was one of those trees on my list. Today, while walking around Manassas Battlefield with Chris, I found one giant sycamore that proved to be a good first subject. This one particular marking, hidden near the base of the tree, caught my eye, and I composed this image to emphasize the three color pattern of this individual tree.
Tech: Canon 1D Mark II N, Sigma 150mm f/2.8 DG Macro, 1/4s, f/16, ISO 200. To order this print, purchase stock rights, or view other photos I have for sale, please visit my website at www.karipost.com.
on February 18, 2008 at 9:14 pm
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One of my favorite trees for bark also. They are quite abundant in the woods behind my house – some really huge ones.
on February 21, 2008 at 12:54 am
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You definitely did well with that tree. You should come back to Virginia ASAP so we can find some more Sycamores. I miss you!