Magic happens in the Pacific Northwest when the forest meets the fog. The trees become mysterious, and the light takes on a new character.
Last summer, I had the opportunity to photograph these captivating conditions along Forest Road 73 near the town of Greenwater, Washington. I started my day photographing along Skookum Creek and some nearby forest areas.
As I climbed in elevation, reaching around 4,000 feet, I was completely enveloped by clouds—the perfect conditions for my forest photography.
The dense forests of the Pacific Northwest can sometimes present challenges when it comes to composing compelling images. I always take my time to carefully explore a location and find the best perspectives for my landscape photography.
Often, I opt to zoom in tight, cutting out much of the surrounding environment to simplify the scene. This technique also brings a sense of order to what could otherwise be a somewhat chaotic composition. With the misty, foggy conditions, the softened background helps eliminate distractions, allowing the main elements to take center stage.
Why I Choose to Work in Black and White
As a photographer, I love exploring the landscape in black and white. There’s something about the inherent simplicity of monochrome that allows the underlying forms, textures, and contrasts to shine through. That’s not to say that color can’t be beautiful in its own right, but sometimes it’s nice to let the scene speak for itself without any distractions.
I hope my images convey the quiet stillness I experience while immersed in these misty Pacific Northwest forests. The ethereal quality of these woodlands is fascinating and beautiful. Through my black-and-white landscape photography, I aim to share that awe-inspiring experience with others.
If you’d like to see more of my work capturing the wild and beautiful black-and-white landscapes of Washington State, I invite you to visit my online art store at the link below. I’m confident you’ll find images transporting you to these serene, atmospheric environments.
