Speulder- en Sprielderbos

Beeches that seem to move

The Speulder- en Sprielderbos lies on the Veluwe, between Garderen and Drie. What sets this forest apart from other woodland areas in the region are the beech trees. Not the straight, well-behaved specimens you find everywhere, but gnarled, centuries-old trunks growing in every direction. They twist, bend and branch in a way that looks almost choreographed. As a photographer, you immediately sense there is something to work with here.

The trees stand close enough together to create interesting depth, but still give you room to move. A focal length between 24mm and 50mm works well for the broader picture, using a nearby trunk as foreground and the row of trees behind it as a leading line. With a longer focal length, think 85mm or more, you can isolate trunks and let the texture of the bark take over.

Light and season

Autumn is the best time to be here. The beech leaves turn yellow and copper-brown, and the light filtering through them is soft and warm. Come early. Morning mist regularly drifts through the forest and gives the scenes an atmosphere you cannot replicate any other way. The blue hour just before sunrise gives you enough light to focus, and if the mist is low you will fill your memory card before breakfast.

Spring is also worth a visit, when the leaves come out and the light takes on a fresh, green quality. Summer is less appealing for landscape photography because of the dense canopy, but macro opportunities are there throughout the year.

Mushrooms and macro photography

From August and all through autumn, dozens of species of mushrooms grow here. Close to the base of the old beeches, in the moss and among fallen branches, you will find enough to keep you busy for hours. A macro lens or a close-up filter helps you get the details sharp. Bring a small diffuser if the sun is too harsh, and a knee pad if you would rather not head home with wet clothes.

Practical

There are several car parks along the Speulderbosweg and at recreational area Speulderbos. The area is publicly accessible and part of Staatsbosbeheer. Be aware of mountain bikers and walkers, especially at weekends. On weekdays and early in the morning you will largely have the forest to yourself. No permit is required for photography for personal use.

Sources and further reading

• Staatsbosbeheer: Speulder- en Sprielderbos
• Veluwe.nl: Speulderbos
• Wikipedia: Speulder- en Sprielderbos