I suppose they could also be called “Tree Nudes”, or “Tree Studies”, but calling this week’s challenge “Bare Tree Portraits” gives us opportunity to create other aptly named tree studies throughout the year.
In the past I’ve been inspired by Van Gogh’s paintings of trees. He painted them throughout the year, although spring and fall seemed to be his favorite time to capture their portraits. Bare trees, those without leaves or greenery, make interesting compositions in that they can be many things – chaotic, symmetrical, asymetrical, stoic, peaceful, rough, smooth … It seems that the longer trees are studied, the more they take on an individual personality, a story. I think Van Gogh tuned into that and captured that in his work.
The Goal:
The challenge is 36-images of “Bare Tree Portraits” as the main subject in the photographs. That means, no leaves.
Read through the Learning To See description to make sure you get why and how you are doing the challenge. Make sure that the composition of your images are 100% about the challenge.
Always experiment with variations on the weekly theme within the subjects of the challenge – composition, contrast, shape, texture, colors, light, shadow, perspective, framing …
If you have questions about this challenge, post them on the comments below and they will be answered there.
Post links to your 36-images in the comments below!
