Arbutus trees offer some of the most striking and photogenic subjects for nature photography on Vancouver Island. Their distinctive peeling bark, twisted forms, and seasonal transformations provide endless creative opportunities. Here are some tips to help you capture the unique beauty of these iconic coastal trees.
Best Times for Arbutus Photography
Each season offers different photographic opportunities with Arbutus trees:
- Spring: Capture delicate white flower clusters against fresh green leaves
- Summer: Focus on the contrast between smooth red bark and deep blue ocean backgrounds
- Fall: Document the bright red berries that attract birds and provide pops of color
- Winter: Highlight the sculptural forms of bare branches against stormy skies
The golden hours just after sunrise and before sunset provide the most flattering light, emphasizing the warm tones of the bark and creating dramatic shadows in the twisted branches.
Composition Tips
- Isolate Details: Get close to capture the intricate patterns of peeling bark, which often reveals layers of green, red, and brown
- Seek Contrast: Position trees against blue skies or ocean backgrounds to emphasize their distinctive silhouettes
- Include Context: Show Arbutus trees in their natural coastal habitat, clinging to rocky bluffs
- Look for Relationships: Photograph wildlife interactions, such as birds feeding on berries
Technical Considerations
- A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the glossy leaves and enhance the rich colors of the bark
- For close-up bark details, use a macro lens or extension tubes
- When photographing entire trees, a wide-angle lens (16-35mm) often works well
- Consider using HDR techniques for scenes with high contrast between bright sky and shadowed trunks
Share Your Photos
We invite you to share your Arbutus tree photographs with our community. Tag your social media posts with #ArbutusVancouverIsland or submit them to our annual photo contest launching next month.