Mastbos

One of the oldest forests in the Netherlands

The Mastbos lies directly to the south of Breda and is one of the oldest planted forests in the Netherlands. It dates from the fifteenth century, when it was laid out as a source of timber for shipbuilding. That history is almost invisible now, but it lives on in the structure of the forest. The long, straight avenues are no accident. They were deliberately designed, and that is precisely what makes them such strong photographic subjects.

What makes this forest so photogenic

It is mainly the tall, slender pines that make the difference. The trunks sometimes stand so close together that barely any light gets through, unless the sun is low. Then the rays cut diagonally through the forest and you get that characteristic play of light and shadow across the forest floor. The avenues draw the eye deep into the frame. With a focal length of 50mm or longer, say 85mm or 135mm, you compress that depth nicely and the trunks appear to move closer together.

In autumn, colour enters the picture. Ferns and the few deciduous trees that grow there turn orange and yellow. That contrast with the dark pine trunks works well. For macro photography the forest offers something all year round. Moss, mushrooms in September and October, fallen needles with dewdrops on them in the morning.

Mist makes it complete

The best conditions are a misty morning in October or November. Ideally just after dew has fallen and before any wind picks up. The light is diffuse, the shadows are soft, and the depth of the avenues is amplified by the haze. Arrive early. Once walkers and dogs come into the forest, the atmosphere is gone.

Practical

There are several car parks on the edge of the Mastbos, including along the Boslustweg and the Bouvignelaan. The forest is free to enter and there are no permit requirements for non-commercial photography. The paths are easy to walk, even with a tripod. Bear in mind that it can get busy at weekends, especially in autumn.

Sources and further reading

• Staatsbosbeheer – Mastbos
• Gemeente Breda – Mastbos
• Wikipedia – Mastbos