This photograph was taken in the Cantal, France. I was struck by the contrast of the bright bark against the forest behind. For me this photo is also about textures so I tried to capture as much detail behind as in front. Originally in colour, it was changed to greys as I wanted to simplify the image so the main focus was on the trees. I used to draw when I was younger and this image reminds me of my days sitting at a desk with a range of pencils. I can almost smell the pencil shavings and the eraser now.
There is a texture added and techniques are used to give the photograph a painterly feel. The colours have been reduced slightly, adding a sense of age. Using my technique I am able to play with light and contrast, softening certain areas and strengthening others, which enables me to draw the viewers eye to a specific part of the image, very much like a painter would do. I aim to produce images that evoke a strong sense of nostalgia, and my subjects are almost always trees
Dan Courtice is a photographer living in rural France. He takes inspiration from the varied landscapes around him, with a particular affinity for trees. He is influenced by landscape paintings of the 19th century, with a style characterised by soft colours and textures. His work evokes feelings of.. Read more…