Fungi photography in the woods.

Susan and I were out walking in a mixed woodland this week looking in particular for fungi because the birding in the Brecon Beacons is pretty flat at the moment and the Odonata have stalled in the cool weather we have been experiencing. We have developed more than a passing interest in this fascinating subject and I can only see it growing even more in the future. I only wish we had started earlier because the photographic opportunities are many and varied. The only trouble is you have to get flat on the ground for most of the shots. In order to do this I carry a large sheet of weed suppressant to lie on and a garden kneeling pad for comfort, people may laugh but getting decent images involves getting into the most contorted positions and I have had some funny looks from people passing by. My macro lens is getting far more use than any other lens during this time and it is getting some decent results. I am using my Yongnuo twin macro flash unit with this lens and a little LED light on a mini flexible ‘Gorilla’ type tripod for extra light, (see review on the Yongnuo flash in the equipment reviews section on the front page of this site). – Well worth the money! We have seen a good variety of fungi this week and the main season hasn’t started yet so many more to find we hope.

Below are a few of the many we have found.


Collared Parachute Fungi - pretty and delicate growing on wood in leaf litter.


Alder Bracket Fungus - very unusual looking, like some exotic dessert.


Witches Hat fungi - as I was taking this shot a tiny insect landed on one of the mushrooms, it was only about two millimetres in length - remarkable!


Here it is blown up - I've no idea what it is.


Amethyst deceivers found in what looked like a fairies glen - lovely setting to find.