In Search of the Perfect Climbing Tree
November 11, 2019
Will Chapman
Location: Maulden Woods
A few weeks ago we met up with Kidly to go on a mini adventure, in search of the perfect climbing tree. Armed with x3 cameras, x5 kids and x1 Dino Bus we set off into the forest.
Into the wild // Becky Christensen
We all know how good being in nature can make us feel. We have known it for centuries. The sounds of the forest, the scent of the trees, the sunlight playing through the leaves, the fresh, clean air — these things give us a sense of comfort. They ease our stress and worry, help us to relax and to think more clearly. Being in nature can restore our mood, give us back our energy and vitality, refresh and rejuvenate us.
time.com/5259602/japanese-forest-bathing/
Discussing the route // Becky Christensen
We know the way // Becky Christensen
The Unicorn forest dance // Becky Christensen
It’s around here somewhere // Becky Christensen
Panda nap // Becky Christensen
I grew up in these woods so photographing all the kids playing there felt very nostalgic! I think it was a good location, we always thought the colours were beautiful and the rows of trees make for an interesting setting.
The big tree we found, with the rope swing, almost grew in the shape of steps and seats, that are perfect for climbing and sitting in. Like it was designed to be played in, and the rope swing tied to the top means a lot of other kids seems to agree!
Mia Parker Tang // Expedition Leader
We found it! // Becky Christensen
Natural habitat // Becky Christensen
What a climb! // Becky Christensen
The cameras I used were a Bronica ETRS 645 and a Minolta 35mm! Medium format is definitely my favourite, I think the colours come out so true to life and the detail it can capture is beautiful, more than that though I think using film feels really special, it makes you think about each shot a lot more as you can’t really keep trying because it would use a lot of film, I always think the extra consideration really shows in the final images.
Mia Parker Tang // Expedition Leader
This way! // Mia Parker Tang
The rope swing // Mia Parker Tang
A comfortable seat // Mia Parker Tang
Base camp // Mia Parker Tang
Peter Rabbit // Mia Parker Tang
The highest climber // Mia Parker Tang
Loved this shoot. Everyone needs to get lost in the woods sometimes. ‘Shirin Yoko’ is prescribed by the Japanese to improve health and happiness, which literally translates as ‘Forest bathing’. It’s good for the soul.
Will Chapman // Dinoski King of the Wild
The climbing team // Becky Christensen
The way home // Becky Christensen
What could go wrong // Becky Christensen
Disclosing the secret location of the perfect climbing tree // Becky Christensen