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Tim Smalley

@timsmalley.co.uk
318 followers 61 following 268 posts

Full-time photographer based in Herts, UK. Back in the woods after surviving a near-death encounter with #sepsis in 2024. Posting about mindful photography and photographing your local area. 👉 Free woodland photography tips: e.timsm.uk

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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 24/10/2026
When has a wood hit its peak? There is no substitute for boots on the ground, but the patterns help. Higher, exposed woods turn first, more secluded ones later. The window I aim for is the last week of October into the first week of November. Read the post
Beeches along a path deep in red and orange fallen leaves, roots crossing the path, a pale valley view to the right.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 23/10/2026
Two trunks from one root, standing on a floor of fallen yellow. The dark quarry face behind does the rest. Bolehill Quarry.
A tree with pale bark splitting into two trunks at Bolehill Quarry, standing on fallen yellow leaves in front of a dark quarry rock face.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 22/10/2026
Even the boulders are green here, under a moss that doesn't miss much. Golden leaves above, fallen ones below. Padley Gorge.
Moss-covered boulders and twisted, moss-covered tree trunks at Padley Gorge, with golden autumn leaves above and fallen leaves on the ground.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 22/10/2026
Ask most photographers when autumn peaks and they will say late October. In Hertfordshire it often comes later, and not every wood turns at once. One is glowing in the third week; the next still green; another already down to bare branches. Read the essay
A lone oak still in gold autumn leaf above frosted ginger bracken, bare misty trees behind and frost on the ground.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 22/10/2026
On an autumn workshop day, clients ask me how to photograph the season. When does a wood peak? Which conditions? Which filters? Do you need a macro lens for fungi? My new post answers them, the way I answer them in the field. Read the post
A slope of trees in deep gold autumn leaf lit by low sun, a darker reddish trunk in the left foreground.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 21/10/2026
Fog keeps the far trees to itself and hands you only the nearest few. In a Hertfordshire wood.
Slender tree trunks fading into fog in a Hertfordshire wood, with soft light filtering through.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 20/10/2026
Orange mist, and one old tree standing in the middle of it, holding its ground and its whole canopy. Somewhere in Hertfordshire.
A large old tree with a broad canopy standing alone in a field in Hertfordshire, wrapped in orange mist.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 20/10/2026
There are two crafts in woodland photography. One is the camera, which gets nearly all the attention. The other is quieter: the slow knowing of a wood, its trees and its calendar. It is that quieter craft my new essay is about. Read the essay
An old hornbeam pollard in the first green of spring bud burst at a woodland edge, pale blossom beyond in soft hazy light.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 19/10/2026
Out in the rust-coloured bracken, two old pollards stand side by side, each on its own base, with a third set back behind. Epping Forest.
Two old pollarded trees standing side by side in rust-orange bracken at Epping Forest, each on its own base, with a third tree set back behind at left.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 19/10/2026
When a woodland photo disappoints you, the easy answer is a better camera, a sharper lens, the right settings, a better day, a better wood. Every one is a thing you can buy or chase. For years I reached for them too. The problem was somewhere else. Read the essay
A pale-barked tree rising from bluebells and bright green understorey in spring woodland.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 18/10/2026
No horizon, no sky. Just a wall of yellow leaves, with a pale trunk or two holding it up. The Chilterns.
A close view of dense yellow autumn leaves in the Chilterns, with two pale tree trunks behind them.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 15/10/2026
When most photographers pack up, I unpack. Rain saturates everything. Colours deepen. In a heavy downpour, the forest makes its own weather. The woodland breathes. The conditions don’t determine whether I go. I go. Rain gives the forest what clear skies never can. timsmalley.co.uk
Scots pine and green deciduous trees in heavy rain haze, copper bracken across the foreground, the far trees pale and soft.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 16/09/2026
It has been a while, a lot longer than I expected. I was very ill in 2024 and recovery is never a straight line. For me, it's been a series of winters. The practice has continued through all of it and I am back out in the woods. I write about this in my weekly letters here: pages.timsmalley.co.uk
A quiet, overcast woodland in muted light. In the foreground a large tree rises on several trunks from a mossy base; to the right stands an old tree with a broken, split trunk, part dead and part living. The ground is covered with fallen leaves, mossy roots and scattered dead wood, with soft green foliage filling the wood behind.
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 17/08/2026
But the more I edited woodland images, the more I noticed a pattern: the stronger the global adjustments, the less natural the result. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/EQYbUe #NaturalLookingImages #EditingTechniques #RecoversShadowDetails
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 14/08/2026
The early morning sunlight filters through the branches of two characterful oak trees adorned with orange and yellow autumn leaves, casting a warm, dappled pattern across a tranquil forest glade Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/h7UNo1 #PhotographyTips #EditingTips #WoodlandPhotography
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 11/08/2026
Avoiding harsh contrasts: Shooting in midday forest light was one of my biggest frustrations early on. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/fLjBs7 #WoodlandPhotography #PhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 07/08/2026
Rain creates challenging lighting conditions with bright highlights from wet surfaces and deep shadows in protected areas. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/apaUKF #WoodlandPhotography #PhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 06/08/2026
By learning how to reduce visual clutter and find structure, you can create photographs with stronger composition, visual flow and emotional impact. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/omDGLR #PhotographyTips #PowerfulCompositions #Composition
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 28/07/2026
This focal length range works best when the conditions do some of the heavy lifting (like mist, strong light or bold shapes). Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/M2t0M5 #FocalLength #WoodlandPhotography #PhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 26/07/2026
But when edge patrol becomes part of your process, your compositions start to feel more balanced, more refined, and more intentional. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/EWd1dH #PhotographyTips #WoodlandPhotography #EdgePatrol
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 24/07/2026
Fog and mist simplify chaotic scenes, rain deepens colours, and frost adds intricate details. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/STZsdX #WoodlandPhotography #FoggyMornings #RainyDays
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 14/07/2026
Harsh sunlight doesn’t have to ruin your summer woodland photography – it can actually become one of your strongest tools. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/r67Ciz #SummerWoodlandPhotography #ManageDifficultLighting #ForestPhotos
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 03/07/2026
When combined with the soft light from an overcast sky, these compositions can feel deeply immersive Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/gda0wM #OvercastLighting #WoodlandPhotography #PhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 30/06/2026
Instead, I ask simple questions: “What if I moved a few steps?” or “What if I waited for the light to shift?” These tiny moments of exploration often unlock more intuitive photography decisions. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/hAUWR2 #ForestPhotosForever #CreativeNaturePhotography
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 22/06/2026
Why it Matters: Small positional changes can dramatically improve your woodland photography compositions, allowing you to discover fresh perspectives and create cleaner, more engaging images Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/HkgaKk #SimplifyChaos #CreateStunning #BeginnerPhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 20/06/2026
Winter fog with the bare structure of the woodland fully revealed, and the possibility of hoar frost at the woodland edge. Read the full article: How to Photograph Woodland in Fog, and Come Home With Something Different ▸ e.timsm.uk/cTb6Sj #PhotographWoodland #FieldTestedTechniques
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 19/06/2026
Create the four tone curves using linear gradients (mask the whole image) before you make any other adjustments. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/EQYbUe #NaturalLookingImages #EditingTechniques #RecoversShadowDetails
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 06/06/2026
If you’re looking for even more actionable advice to elevate your skills, download my free guide, Taming The Chaos: The Key to Better Woodland Photography Compositions. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/HkgaKk #SimplifyChaos #CreateStunning #BeginnerPhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 02/06/2026
The image feels punchy without being over-contrasty as this has been added after RAW preparation and I'be been able to maintain a much more neutral colour across the image. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/EQYbUe #NaturalLookingImages #EditingTechniques #RecoversShadowDetails
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 02/06/2026
After years of photographing woodland in fog across all four seasons, in bluebell woods in spring, in the heavy stillness of a summer morning, in the hoar frosts and low cloud of winter, I have come to understand why. Read the full article ▸ e.timsm.uk/cTb6Sj #PhotographWoodland
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 30/05/2026
Why it Matters: Depth is a vital component of engaging woodland photography compositions, as it creates dynamic and immersive visuals Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/HkgaKk #SimplifyChaos #CreateStunning #BeginnerPhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 30/05/2026
This guide is designed to provide practical, beginner-friendly tips to help you tame the chaos, harness the power of light, and refine your approach to woodland photography composition. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/HkgaKk #SimplifyChaos #CreateStunning #BeginnerPhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 29/05/2026
By simplifying chaotic scenes, mastering light, telling stories, creating depth, and refining compositions through movement, you can unlock the full potential of your forest images Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/HkgaKk #SimplifyChaos #CreateStunning #BeginnerPhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 26/05/2026
The real secret of foggy woodland photography is slowing down, being patient, and being adaptable. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/cTb6Sj #PhotographWoodland #FieldTestedTechniques #CameraSettings
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 24/05/2026
If you happen to find yourself out on one of those mornings when the fog is really just low cloud with ambition, it is worth reading my thoughts on woodland photography in the rain as a lot of the same gear and compositional principles apply. Read the full article ▸ e.timsm.uk/cTb6Sj
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 24/05/2026
To get closer to a clean starting point, apply four full-image tone curves using Lightroom’s masking tools Read the full article: The 3-Step Woodland Photo Editing Workflow That Simplified My Post-Processing ▸ e.timsm.uk/EQYbUe #NaturalLookingImages #EditingTechniques
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 23/05/2026
RAW, all sliders still at 0 but file is better prepared for editing thanks to Linear profile and 4-curves pulling both highlights and shadow detail. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/EQYbUe #NaturalLookingImages #EditingTechniques #RecoversShadowDetails
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 15/05/2026
The best tripod for woodland photography balances stability, weight, build quality, and adaptability to the terrain. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/VDS02F #WoodlandPhotography #TestedPicks #GearGuide
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 11/05/2026
Working with natural light and embracing shadows creates images that feel timeless. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/h7UNo1 #PhotographyTips #EditingTips #WoodlandPhotography
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 08/05/2026
Morning light tends to be softer and cooler, creating subtle forest shadows that simplify compositions. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/fLjBs7 #WoodlandPhotography #PhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 05/05/2026
The quiet revolution begins with a simple question: What if the most meaningful photographic experiences are already within walking distance? Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/zUx3X6 #PhotographyTips #QuietRevolution #Mindset
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 04/05/2026
Small movements make enormous differences in woodland photography, and this becomes even more critical when working with the atmospheric effects that rain creates. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/apaUKF #WoodlandPhotography #PhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 03/05/2026
When editing forest scenes, I often reduce contrast in the background while gently increasing clarity on the main subject Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/omDGLR #PhotographyTips #PowerfulCompositions #Composition
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 24/04/2026
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, this article will help you understand how focal length shapes what you see and how it influences the kinds of woodland photographs you make. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/M2t0M5 #FocalLength #WoodlandPhotography
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 22/04/2026
If your forest photos often feel cluttered, unbalanced, or just not quite right, edge patrol might be the missing piece. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/EWd1dH #PhotographyTips #WoodlandPhotography #EdgePatrol
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 20/04/2026
Overcast skies provide soft, even lighting that eliminates harsh shadows and bright highlights, making it ideal for woodland photography. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/STZsdX #WoodlandPhotography #FoggyMornings #RainyDays
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 10/04/2026
Strong compositions are essential for successful summer woodland photography, especially when the light is less than forgiving. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/r67Ciz #SummerWoodlandPhotography #ManageDifficultLighting #ForestPhotos
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 26/03/2026
My woodland photography compositions feel quieter now, and much more thoughtful. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/hAUWR2 #ForestPhotosForever #CreativeNaturePhotography #ForestPhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 23/03/2026
Mastering where to focus in woodland photography can be harder than it sounds. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/g6WfbZ #focusingtips #WoodlandPhotography #PhotographyTips
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Tim Smalley @timsmalley.co.uk · 14/02/2026
In woodland photography, where you’re often working in awkward positions, on sloped ground, or at very low angles, your head needs to offer reliable support and smooth, precise adjustments. Read more 👉 e.timsm.uk/VDS02F #WoodlandPhotography #TestedPicks #GearGuide
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