A pretty convincing Tamarack (American larch) forest. I think using a full scale background is part of the secret. The other part is just a very good job.
Small scale bonsai magic
The series of photo shown here were posted on our Stone Lantern/Bonsai Bark facebook page by Dan Turner. To my eye, they present wonderful examples of small scale bonsai artistry that can only be the result of deep concentration, nimble fingers, boundless patience and a great imagination. The only thing missing are photos that show whole plantings rather than just sections. That and a way to shrink down and slip into this magical world.
Hereby serving notice that I intend to swipe that idea of using a full-scale background! Great idea, whoever first thought of it.
The natural sunlight and shadows play an important role for me. Thanks for sharing these.
Love the scale on the stones!
I would love to see this in it’s entirety as one picture. Just to see what the bonsai looks as a whole. The details are amazing, and the trees look like natural trees.
Hi Steve,
Yeah, and he does it in a way that makes the transition look completely natural. Japanese garden designers have long worked to incorporate their gardens with the mountains, trees, neighbors yards, etc (even cityscapes) in the background.
Hi Marc,
Agreed. A lot of thought went into the photographing as well as the construction.
Hi Alan,
Yeah. Even the little stones in the water. If you look close, in one photo, there’s even what looks like a tiny leaf in the water.
Hi Judy,
Yeah. We don’t even know how many landscape plantings are represented by the photos. Maybe he’ll send some photos.
Incredible! What detail and planting techniques and really great use of material. Any possibility of sharing photo camera used, lenses, settings. etc? Very well done. Thanks for posting.
Hi Michael,
I think you’ll have to get in touch with Dan for that info: http://www.facebook.com/bonsaidanturner
Wow! Beautiful photography as well.