Secrets to Great Garden Photos

Some Fun Techniques to Use, Illustrated

I took this at Allerton Gardens on the island of Kauai. The subject matter of the lone tree grabs the eye. The tropical setting, the essence of the garden, is also a plus.

A compelling garden photo grabs the eye, stirs the imagination and may inspire us to go outside.

I take garden photos all the time and have learned a few things along the way. And now with mobile phones, we are all taking photos so I thought I would share a few tips to make your garden photos really stand out.

First off, different garden styles require different approaches. A formal garden looks perfect when you highlight its symmetry and structured layout. Wild gardens shine with soft lighting, close ups, low angle shots and high horizons.

Great garden photos are a combination of several elements working together. Here are 4 General Techniques:

1. Subject Matter - Choose a Focal point

• You can highlight a striking focal point - a beautiful plant, an inviting garden path, or a distinctive feature like a bench, trellis or fountain. Of course we garden lovers do this all the time, taking pictures of flowers close up or the entry into a special garden.

  

  The wildness of the garden is its calling card. The high horizon (the water goes up to the top of the photo) helps set the tone. I took this at Phillis Warden’s amazing property (see it on Open Days).

2. Composition

• I always follow the Rule of Thirds. This means placing the key elements off-center (1/3 to 2/3 of the space) to create a more visually balanced and interesting composition. You create a more dynamic image if you avoid centering the subject. This technique is also used in painting and graphic design quite often.

  

  This photo is a good example of the rule of thirds. I took this at Naumkeag, a historic estate garden in Stockbridge, MA. If I had taken the photo with the round moon gate in the center, it would not be as compelling.

• Another powerful technique in composing a photo is using the line of a path