6 Tips for Capturing Fantasy-Like Photos in a Public Park

Public parks are often overlooked as locations for fantasy photography, but they can be transformed into enchanting settings with the right techniques. Trees, in particular, offer a natural backdrop that can be used to create whimsical and otherworldly images. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to capture fantasy-like photos in a public park using trees as your primary element.

Choosing the Right Time and Weather

The time of day and weather conditions play a crucial role in fantasy photography. Early morning or late afternoon, known as the golden hours, provide soft, warm light that adds a magical touch to your photos. Overcast days can also be ideal, as the diffused light creates a dreamy atmosphere. I recommend using sun tracker apps like Unscripted to plan your shoots.

Finding the Perfect Trees

Look for trees with unique shapes, textures, and colors. Ancient, gnarled trees or those with sprawling branches can add a sense of mystery and wonder to your photos. Parks with a variety of tree species will give you more options to experiment with. You want to use this environment to create a lot of depth in the background.

Using Natural Light

Natural light is your best friend when it comes to creating fantasy-like photos. Position your subject so that the light filters through the leaves, creating dappled patterns and a soft glow. Backlighting can also be effective, especially during the golden hours, to create a halo effect around your subject.

Incorporating Props and Costumes

Props and costumes can enhance the fantasy element of your photos. Think about incorporating items like fairy wings, lanterns, or vintage clothing. These elements can help tell a story and transport viewers to a different world.

Playing with Angles and Perspectives

Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add depth and interest to your photos. Shooting from a low angle can make trees appear more towering and majestic, while a high angle can give a bird’s-eye view of the scene. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your compositions.

Editing for a Fantasy Feel

Post-processing is where you can really bring out the fantasy elements in your photos. Use Adobe's lightroom to enhance colors, add soft glows, and create ethereal effects. Adjusting the contrast and saturation can also help achieve the desired look. Another cool thing about Adobe is the use of presets, you can purchase them from your favorite photographers to apply some of their editing styles.

With a bit of creativity and the right techniques, you can transform a simple public park into a fantastical setting for your photography. Trees provide a versatile and enchanting backdrop that can help you capture magical, fantasy-like photos.

So grab your camera, head to your nearest park, and let your imagination run wild!

I used a Canon Rebel T6 with a 17-85mm zoom lens to capture all the photos.