Today’s blog leads you to a captivating photo location in East Belgium, just an hour and a half’s drive from Brussels, Belgium. I visit this location almost every year, and each visit unveils new elements. Noir Flohay, with its unique charm, is a perfect spot for minimalist winter landscape photography, sure to intrigue and excite any photography enthusiast.
I previously published a blog on winter photography, 17-tips-for-winter-landscape-photography, where you can find even more general details.
Content
Inhoud
Introduction – history – climate
Tip # 1. What can you expect in Noir Flohay?
Tip # 2. The best time to visit and the importance of the weather forecast
Tip # 5. Protect your equipment
Tip # 6. Do not forget your tripod
Tip # 8. Use negative space and go for minimal.
Tip # 9. Convert your photo to black and white.
Tip # 10. Post-processing snow landscapes
Tip # 11. Go back again and again.
Tip # 12. Also, explore the surrounding moorland plateaus and valleys.
Tip #13: Unleash your creativity and create a series of photos that tell a compelling story.
Conclusions on minimal winter photography in Noir Flohay
Introduction – history – climate
Noir Flohay, a picturesque location within the Hoge Venen nature reserve in eastern Belgium, offers numerous photographic opportunities. Located between Eupen, Spa, Malmedy and Monschau in Germany, this area is a remnant of a pine forest created around 1850. Devastated by fires since the 1950s, it is now known for its striking, photogenic skeletal trees that stand out, especially during winter when snow and fog contribute to an atmospheric setting that mixes the enigmatic with the peaceful, ideal for minimalist landscape photography. The surrounding area also offers attractions such as [specific attractions], making it a perfect destination for a photography trip.
The High Fens is one of the last important wilderness areas in the region. It comprises about 5,000 hectares of heathland and forest, making it the most prestigious nature reserve in Wallonia. The climate here is temperate boreal-Atlantic with continental influences.
Historically, the High Fens originated in the last ice age, when they evolved from ice-covered plains to peat bogs and dense forests. The land was used for peat extraction and timber in the Middle Ages. In the 19th century, it became a tourist attraction, and today, it is a protected nature reserve frequented by hikers, cyclists, and nature photographers.
Geologically, the High Fens’ roots return to the Cambrian, with ancient marine deposits that have taken millions of years to transform into the region’s robust peat bogs. In addition, the area is known for its spectacular display of wild daffodils in April.
Noir Flohay’s vulnerability to forest fires became evident in 2011 when a fire severely affected the pine population and left a landscape littered with stark skeletons of trees. These remains create a striking visual appeal that attracts photographers.
The climate of the High Fens is cool and humid, averaging eight °C with annual rainfall of about 1,500 mm.
For photography enthusiasts, Noir Flohay is incredibly fascinating in winter, when snow-covered trees create a magical view. However, visitors should be well prepared for the cold, given the icy nature of the High Fens. The following chapters delve deeper into Noir Flohay’s unique photographic outlook and provide guidelines for capturing stunning images. Although the forthcoming advice seems comprehensive, it is based on years of positive and challenging experience.
1. What can you expect in Noir Flohay?
Here is a tip from my playbook: Walk through the High Fens. You will soon be eager to use your camera. The views there are irresistible, the kind that demands to be photographed. I understand that photography is subjective – what fascinates me may not interest you. However, in a place like the High Fens, disappointment is unlikely. You are bound to see something that touches you and makes you think, “I have to capture this”. So, take that walk with the camera in hand, and let the High Fens do the rest.
Noir Flohay offers a plethora of photo opportunities, each more inspiring and creative than the last:
- Winter conditions and landscapes decorated with mounds of snow.
- Typical, desolate, misty bog landscapes.
- Lonely trees
- In dense fog, look for minimalist landscapes. A lone tree, a lovely group of trees or a beautiful old birch are ideal subjects for this kind of photography.
- Shallow fens with scattered tussocks of pipe clay surrounded by peat moss.
- Picturesque promenades leading you through a white winter landscape.
- You can use these boardwalks as guidelines.
- Various details in and around fens during frost. A frozen pond or pond is always worth exploring.
- Frozen leaves or plant parts, air bubbles in the ice or patterns created by the thawing and refreezing of water.
Conditions and scenery at Noir Flohay are ever-changing, promising an adventurous and exciting experience each time you revisit. You might encounter a landscape blanketed in snow or a foggy, mysterious setting. The sky could be a riot of colours or a serene backdrop to swirling snowflakes. The variety is endless, and I always find new aspects to appreciate when I look back at my photos from previous visits.
2. The best time to visit and the importance of the weather forecast
Winter in the High Fens: Magical Simplicity
Imagine standing in the middle of the High Fens. Tender snowflakes gently swirl down, while bare trees reveal their simple, understated beauty. A patch of mist weaves gracefully between the branches, and the landscape breathes serenity. Winter in the High Fens is no ordinary season; it is a celebration of the pure force of nature. Everything seems asleep, but paradoxically, the landscape comes alive.
Title: “Cold loneliness”. (Guy 2021)
This landscape captures a serene winter scene. A lone leafless tree forms a stark silhouette against a muted sky; its branches are etched like delicate lacework. Around it, a few evergreens stand on the horizon, contrasting life continuing amid nature’s slumber. The foreground is a textured carpet of snow-covered earth, whispering of the season’s chill. The subtle interplay of soft grasses and muted earth tones lends the scene a quiet melancholy and reflective stillness.
Title: “Beginning to Snow” (Guy, 2021).
When there is only a thin layer of snow, countless branches and tufts of grass stick out. This can introduce a considerable amount of disorder into your photo, making it less soothing than when there is an immaculate, perfectly white carpet of snow.
Winter versus autumn: a unique charm
Autumn has its undeniable charm. Think of a film in sepia tones, with a palette of warm browns and yellows. But winter? That one adds a touch of magic. The play of light, shadows, and stillness makes the season perfect for photographers looking for dramatic images.
Title: “Lonely embrace of autumn” (Guy, 2021).
The atmosphere you can capture in autumn differs from that in winter. This composition speaks to the soul’s longing for rest and reflection. A lone tree with leaves in the golden autumn colour palette stands in a sea of yellow-brown grasses, its isolation reinforced by the distant dense forest. The overcast sky creates a sombre mood and shrouds the landscape in a veil of silence. This single tree, bathed in diffuse light, becomes a symbol of resilience amid the encroaching slackness of its surroundings.
Practical tips for your winter adventure
- Avoid weekend crowds: The High Fens are popular with snow lovers and skiers. Choose a weekday for a quieter visit.
- Visit during the golden or blue hour: These moments offer fascinating colours and a unique atmosphere for your photos.
- Check conditions: Always check weather and road conditions. For example, use the webcam mont-rigi to check snow levels and visibility.
Photographing in winter: drama and simplicity
Blue skies are excellent for capturing snowy landscapes. However, do not underestimate the power of a foggy day! Fog simplifies the landscape and adds a mysterious, serene atmosphere. Days like this make a landscape photographer’s heart beat faster.
An example from my experience: I recently saw trees covered in frost, bathed in a soft, golden light. It was an enchanting moment, but the mist completely changed the scene before I set up my camera appropriately. So, winter photography requires both speed and patience.
Title: “Beginning to Snow” (Guy, 2021).
When there is only a thin layer of snow, countless branches and tufts of grass stick out. This can introduce a considerable amount of disorder into your photo, making it less soothing than when there is an immaculate, perfectly white carpet of snow.
Reflection: winters past and present
Winters are changing, but the allure of a snow-covered landscape remains timeless. The High Fens, a rare sanctuary of winter in Belgium, offers a unique opportunity to witness the magic of a true winter landscape. Here, we can still experience the enchantment of the cold days we used to know and the beauty of the snow-covered world.
Weather elements: ally or challenge?
Wind is an underestimated factor. It seems wonderfully chilly at -5 °C with no wind, but add a cold breeze or blizzard, and it quickly feels like -30 °C. So, prepare well for the elements and protect yourself from extreme cold.
Delve further into winter photography.
Want to know more about how to use the weather for impressive photos? Visit my blog, weather-and-landscape-photography, and learn how to use every weather situation to your advantage.
3. How to get there
Coordinates: 50.529807, 6.098349 G3HX+W8H Bales
There are several routes to the Noir Flohay, known for its stunning winter landscapes. One of the easiest options is from the car park at the Baraque Michel Inn (Baraque Michel, BE 4950 Waimes). From there, you can cross the street and follow a footpath for about an hour, partly on boardwalks through the ‘Fagne des Deux Series’. Eventually, you come to a bend to the left, leave the decking path and head north up the hill, where you encounter the haunted forest. The famous trees of Noir Flohay are on the territory of the municipality of Baelen. Caution is advised, as you can easily walk past them.
This scenic decking path can occasionally become treacherously slippery during rapidly changing thaw and frost periods.
Title: “Winter’s Whisper” (Guy, 2024)
“Winter’s Whisper” captures the essence of a landscape in silence. From Baraque Michel towards Noir Flohay, a world opens up where time fades and nature seems breathless. Shrouded in heavy snow cloaks, trees bow solemnly under their burden while the snow softens and transforms everything into a dream of soft curves and muted edges. A barely visible trail disappears into the mist, inviting discovery- a mystery that amplifies the silence. The monochrome palette emphasises the serene, almost timeless atmosphere. Everything in this image exudes stillness, simplicity and the poetry of a world in hibernation.
Getting to the destination can be pretty tricky at times. Access is gained by clambering over dilapidated planks and an uncertain platform; the route consists of a frozen path decorated with ice, snow and reeds. Take care; you can sink into the snow up to your waist. During periods of fresh snowfall, the path can become damaged, rendering it completely invisible and making it difficult to navigate through the snow.
Title: “Into the Silence” (Guy, 2021)
This image is an immersive visual odyssey that captures the essence of a solitary journey through a snowy landscape. A lone figure walks along a snowy boardwalk, disappearing into the mist. The image is striking because the dark silhouette of the traveller stands out against the white background. This picture goes beyond visual appeal and delves deeply into themes of loneliness, introspective journeys and the unfathomable paths of life. The almost monochrome colour scheme enhances the sense of isolation and serenity that only a snowy world can offer. The minimalist composition of the image, combined with the poignant presence of the lone figure, creates a deep emotional resonance. The viewer wonders: What is the origin or destination of this lone wanderer? The photograph invites introspection and becomes a mirror for our solitary journeys and the silent paths we take in our lives.
To reach Noir Flohay, you must rely on your orientation skills and use the coordinates provided. However, there is minimal to no internet connection amid the high plateau.
You can download a route from Routeyou here: Baraque Michel-Noir Flohay
Another option for those arriving by car is to park at Signal de Botrange, Belgium’s highest point, and continue on foot. Numerous hiking trails are available from this location.
You can also park at Mont Rigi between Baraque Michel and Signal de Botrange.
Remember that during the winter season, many tourists can come for cross-country skiing or trekking, and all want to find a parking space. So, arrive early enough.
If you opt for public transport, it is best to take the train to Eupen station and then take the bus to Baraque Michel or Signal de Botrange.
Although finding the path that takes you right through the High Fens to Noir Flohay takes a while, we encourage you to persevere. This walk straight through the High Fens is well worth it.
If you ignore the left turn towards Noir Flohay and keep following the promenade for a kilometre, you will also come across beautiful views along the river Helle.
Title: “Veiled in Winters Grace” (Guy, 2021)
Going to the River Helle, you are surrounded by a beautiful winter landscape perfect for photography. The snow-covered landscape is particularly fascinating, and the river adds a dynamic element. The trees are also a key feature of the landscape, with their frost-covered branches stretching in intricate patterns against a misty background. Black-and-white photography captures the subtle textures and elegance of a winter day. The photograph attempts to convey the tranquillity of winter with a minimalist approach that enhances its impact. The photo puts the viewer in a dreamlike state of mind by using soft focus and playing with light and shadow.
4. Protect yourself
Photographing in Noir Flohay during winter in eastern Belgium can be a rewarding experience. Nevertheless, it is essential to take some precautions to ensure your safety and the well-being of the surroundings. Here are some recommendations:
Dress warmly:
- Wear clothing in layers to stay warm in cold temperatures.
- Use thermal and moisture-wicking layers to stay dry.
- Under no circumstances is it ideal to choose jeans. Not only are they heavy, they are also slow to dry.
Gloves and hand warmers:
- Wear photography-friendly gloves or mittens with removable fingertips to easily reach camera buttons.
- Consider using hand warmers to keep your hands warm during prolonged recording sessions.
Pay attention to your feet:
- In winter conditions, there may be snow and ice, so wear suitable footwear with good traction.
- Shoes are selected based on conditions and snow depth. This selection includes ankle-high waterproof boarding boots and calf-high snow boots, some of which have a sheepskin lining.
- Be careful when choosing stockings to avoid blisters.
- Be careful on slippery surfaces, especially when walking on uneven terrain.
Stay hydrated and nourished:
- Cold weather can be dehydrating. Drink plenty of fluids.
- Bring snacks to keep your energy up during your photo session.
Inform someone of YOUR plans:
- If you venture into remote areas, inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
Plan your timing:
- Consider the shorter daylight hours in winter and plan your photography accordingly.
- Sunset and sunrise can provide beautiful lighting, but keep in mind the limited daylight.
Respect the environment:
- Stay on the marked paths to avoid damaging sensitive vegetation, especially if the area is covered in snow.
- Some paths through the moors may be closed
- Leave no trace. Pick up your trash and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Know your limits:
- Be aware of your physical limits, and do not push yourself too much under challenging circumstances.
Emergency supplies:
- Bring a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medicines. I always carry some plasters against blisters.
- Have an emergency whistle or a fully charged phone if you need help. A power bank is also handy.
Remember that winter conditions can be harsh, so preparation is vital. Taking these precautions allows you to photograph Noir Flohay’s winter landscapes safely and responsibly.
5. Protect your equipment
To ensure optimal performance and longevity, taking precautions when protecting your photography equipment during winter in Noir Flohay, East Belgium, is essential. Here are some tips to keep in mind for your photographic equipment in winter conditions:
Camera protection:
- Use a waterproof cover for your camera or a special winter jacket to protect your camera from snow, rain and moisture.
- Wipe down your camera and lenses regularly to prevent accumulation of snow or moisture.
- Dry snow is easily wiped off your camera and knocked out of the lens hood.
Lens care:
- Do not forget to bring lens covers to prevent snow and moisture from getting on your lenses.
- Use lens microfiber cleaning wipes to wipe away condensation or snowflakes.
- You can wipe dry snow off your camera or knock it out of your lens hood
- Do not try to use your bare hand or even a gloved hand to remove snow from your lens, as the warmth of your hand can melt the snow, leading to wet spots on the lens.
Lens changes:
- Change lenses as little as possible in open or exposed areas to reduce the risk of snow or moisture entering the camera body.
- Change lenses quickly and efficiently, protected from the elements.
- Hold your camera upside down when changing lenses so nothing can fall on the sensor.
- Also, ensure no snow falls on the back of the lens you want to mount.
Tripod maintenance:
- If you use a tripod, remember that metal can get extremely cold. Wear gloves or wrap the legs with insulating material.
- Consider using tripod leg warmers or covers to make handling more comfortable.
Waterproof bags:
– Carry your camera gear in waterproof bags or backpacks to protect it from unexpected snow or rain.
– Packets of silica gel in the bag can help absorb moisture.
Batteries
- When it freezes, batteries do not last as long.
- It is advisable to carry an extra battery.
- It is definitely not a bad idea to keep your batteries in a warmer place, such as in your trousers or jacket pocket.
Condensation prevention:
- Let your gear gradually get used to temperature changes to reduce the risk of condensation in the lenses and camera body. Leave your camera bag unopened for a while after entering a heated room. The significant temperature differences can immediately lead to condensation, which is harmful to internal electronics.
- If you want to view or edit your photos immediately, take the memory card from your camera outside.
- Use moisture-absorbing bags of silica gel in your camera bag.
Keep your stuff dry:
– Use lens caps and camera cover when you are not actively shooting to protect your gear from snow and moisture.
– Store your gear in a dry environment when not in use.
Regular checks:
– Check your equipment regularly for signs of moisture and wipe them clean if necessary.
– Check that the camera’s seals and gaskets are in good condition.
6. Do not forget your tripod
In winter, there is less light, and the days are considerably shorter. Therefore, using a stable tripod is sometimes essential. I consistently stress in my blogs that investing in a good tripod is worthwhile.
Carbon tripods are slightly more pleasant to work with in freezing temperatures, as they feel less cold. Their lower weight also makes them easier to carry.
I usually use a Sirui-waterproof-w-2204-carbon tripod for my snow walks; this allows me to work in all weather conditions.
7. Camera settings
Capturing photos in snowy environments requires a nuanced approach, given snow’s inherent bright and reflective properties and the likelihood of dealing with high dynamic range. I use a Nikon-z7-ii to great satisfaction. Consider the following camera settings and practical tips to effectively navigate these challenges and take compelling photos in such conditions:
Exposure compensation:
Snow and fog can fool your camera’s metering system, resulting in underexposed, drab, grey images. Use a positive exposure compensation (e.g. +1 to +2 stops) to ensure the snow appears bright and well-exposed.
White balance:
Set the white balance to “Daylight” or “Auto” for most snow conditions. This helps preserve the snow’s natural colour.
ISO setting:
Start with a low ISO setting, such as ISO 64, 100 or 200, to preserve image quality and minimise noise. Increase the ISO only when necessary, especially in low light. If you use a tripod, keep the ISO as low as possible.
Aperture priority mode (Av)
Use Aperture Priority mode to control the depth of field. A smaller aperture (higher f-number) can help keep more of the scene in focus.
Fast shutter speed:
Choose a fast shutter speed to freeze falling snowflakes and capture razor-sharp details.
Title: “Winter over the Fens” (Guy, 2011)
You can still see the plants and small streams at the beginning of the snow season. However, they will soon be covered by a carpet of snow. During snowfall, a lens hood can protect your camera lens from drops caused by snowflakes. Later in the afternoon, the colour of the sky can change to beautiful hues. The subtle gradient of twilight tones in the sky softens the scene and adds a delicate warmth to the otherwise cold scene. A meandering stream cuts through the snow, offering a dark contrast and a reminder of the lifeblood that once flowed through this now dormant ecosystem.
Spot measurement:
Consider using spot metering on your subject to expose key elements in your composition accurately, especially if the scene has a mix of light and dark areas.
Histogram monitoring:
Check the histogram on your camera’s LCD screen regularly to get a balanced exposure. Avoid overexposing highlights, as this can lead to loss of detail.
RAW format:
Shoot in RAW format for more flexibility during post-processing. RAW files contain more information, allowing better exposure and white balance adjustment.
Manual focus:
Autofocus may struggle in snowy conditions. Consider manual focusing, especially if the falling snow confuses the autofocus system. You decide what works best for you, manual or automatic.
Bracketing:
If your camera has bracketing capabilities, consider using them to take several shots with different exposures. This can be advantageous when taking high-dynamic range (HDR) shots. However, in this snowy location with lots of fog, depth of field will be limited, tonal range will also be reasonable, and exposure or focus bracketing may not be used as often.
Experiment with these settings based on the specific conditions and desired creative effect. Remember that photography is also about personal style, so feel free to adjust these recommendations according to your preferences and the unique qualities of the snowy scene.
| The best settings for winter photography summarised: | ||
| 1 | Adjust exposure compensation | Choose +1 or +2 stops to maintain clear snow. |
| 2 | Use a low ISO | Start with ISO 100 or lower for sharp details, especially with a tripod. |
| 3 | Choose an aperture-priority mode (Av) | Set to a small aperture (f/8 to f/16) for depth of field. |
| 4 | Focus on the histogram | Check the histogram to avoid over- or underexposure. |
| 5 | Shoot in RAW: | Always shoot in RAW for optimal flexibility in post-processing. |
Experiment with these settings based on the specific conditions and desired creative effect. Remember that photography is also about personal style, so feel free to adjust these recommendations according to your preferences and the unique qualities of the snowy scene.
8. Use negative space and go for minimal.
Titel: “Solitude” (Guy, 2020)
“Solitude” aptly captures the essence of isolation with a single frost-covered tree standing resolutely in a vast expanse of snow. The stark contrast of the tree’s dark branches against the overwhelming white canvas exemplifies nature’s minimalist artistry (lots of negative space). The absence of colour highlights the subtle textures and shapes, making this a study of the elegance of simplicity. The small bushes peeking through the snow add scale and depth, while the clear sky blends seamlessly into the snow-covered ground, enveloping the landscape in a calm uniformity.
In winter, characterised by abundant monochrome weather, negative or blank space can often create a striking effect. Therefore, make the most of the available white space. When composing winter landscape photography, include a subject in the scene to add depth to the photo. This subject can be a person, tree, rock, building, or other fascinating element. Empty (negative) space can be minimalist and powerful.
Title: “Monochrome ballet of winter (Guy, 2021)
This photograph captures a stark, serene landscape where skeletal trees dance against a snow-covered background. The monochrome palette enhances the play of light and shadow, giving the scene an ethereal quality. Like delicate strokes of ink, the trees reach for the sky and embody resilience amid winter desolation. The simplicity of the composition invites contemplation, while the lack of colour reveals a raw, intense beauty. The balance between the vast snow and the graceful trees creates a soothing, introspective, minimalist, and compelling harmony.
OK, let us break down minimalist landscape photography. It is about what you leave out, not just what you put in. Simplify, simplify, simplify. That is your mantra. If you photograph a solitary tree, you are lucky – it is simple. However, if you are dealing with many trees, it gets more complicated.
Here is a pro tip: grab that zoom lens. It is your best friend for focusing on one tree and putting it in the spotlight. By zooming in, you can isolate your subject and keep your composition as clean and minimal as a blank canvas. Remember that in minimalist photography, less is more.
9. Convert your photo to black and white.
Let us explore the magic of transforming winter landscapes into beautiful black-and-white photos. Winter is already a minimalist’s paradise. Snow covers everything in white, and trees look sleek and bare. Now remove the colour, and what do you get? A masterpiece of simplicity. It is like turning down the volume so the viewer can hear what your photo is saying.
Here is why this works so well:
- Simplicity is king: Those snow landscapes are already pretty barren. Take out the colour, and it is all about the raw beauty of the scene.
- Drama through contrast: Black and white is all about playing with shadows and highlights. The bright white snow against the dark trees? That is visual poetry.
- Texture is in the spotlight: Have you ever seen the intricate patterns of frost or how snow sticks to branches? In black and white, these textures are the stars of the show.
- Timeless look: There is something eternal about black and white. A snowy landscape in monochrome? That is a classic in the making.
- Setting the mood: Colour can be noisy. Remove it, and the mood of your winter wonderland will shine through – whether it is peaceful, melancholic or something completely different.
Remember that black and white not only means losing colour but also a whole new perspective.
Title: “Lone Winter’s Stand” (Guy, 2018)
Here, I present the colour version of the same scene in the left photo and a black-and-white view in the right photo. The choice between the two is very personal, and each has its merits. In the end, the black-and-white version is even more minimalist. There is no definitive right or wrong choice; everyone will judge what works best for them. The image embodies the stark beauty of loneliness in a winter landscape. A single, bare tree stands defiantly amid a sea of white, its branches stripped of life but with a quiet strength. The absence of other elements in the frame draws the eye to the twisted shape of the tree, a natural sculpture formed by the elements. The uniform blanket of snow creates an almost infinite space that reinforces the tree’s solitary struggle against the elements.
Explore this topic on my blog on black-and-white photography: tips for black-and-white landscape photos.
Also, read my blogs on landscape photography and minimalism-in-landscape photography.
10. Post-processing snow landscapes
As mentioned earlier, the crucial step in post-processing is setting the white balance correctly to avoid unnatural colour casts. Establishing white and black points and adjusting contrast are also essential. I use a combination of Lightroom and Photoshop plus plugins such as Silver-efex-pro (Nik collection DXO, BW-artisan-pro-X-2022_panel, and Luminar Neo). Depending on the photo and the desired effect, I choose either program as my primary tool or various plugins. I often switch between software programmes to achieve the expected results.
For my typical colour landscapes, I mainly use Lightroom for basic adjustments. For my minimalist black-and-white landscapes, however, I use Photoshop. To create quick luminance masks, I use the plug-in BW-artisan-pro-X-2022_panel.
Title: “Simplicity in white” (Guy, 2021)
Above, you can see the photo captured by the camera, with a considerable amount of fog, grey light and a blue haze. This was because, for some reason, I neglected to overexpose by 1 or 2 stops on the spot. In the second photo, you can see the black-and-white transformation achieved through post-processing in Photoshop. This process includes setting the black-and-white points, adjusting the white balance and using luminance masks to improve contrast. This improvement is only possible because I shoot in Raw format. “Simplicity in white” shows a lone tree whose branches are heavy with snow weight against an unbroken white background. The shape of the tree, draped in frost, bends gracefully as if in a state of mournful repose or silent homage. The texture of the snowy branches is rendered with a softness that contrasts with the starkness of the surrounding emptiness. This image speaks to the quiet resilience of nature and the poetic beauty found in the stillness of a winter landscape.
11. Go back again and again.
If you follow my blog, you have already experienced the transformation of landscapes through the seasons. However, here comes the remarkable thing: even the same place covered in snow can repeatedly tell a completely different story. Take these two photos below. They are images of the same location, both shrouded in wintry white, but each with its mood and message. That is the magic of photography: the same canvas, a new masterpiece each time.
Title: “Winter Resistance” (Guy 2021 and 2024)
Here, we see an almost identical scene in two different winters: 2021 on the left and 2024 on the right. This illustrates that returning to the same place produces different results; the snow, light and contrast constantly change. “Winter’s Resilience” shows a tree with gnarled branches, a testament to weathering the harshness of winter. The snow-covered background accentuates the twisted and contorted silhouette of the tree, a dance of survival against the elements. In the foreground, an under-snowy branch alludes to past struggles, while the standing tree continues to defy the odds, each twig wrapped in frost or snow. This stark monochrome scene is a tribute to resilience in the face of adversity and shows the stark beauty of nature in its most challenging season.
12. Also, explore the surrounding moorland plateaus and valleys.
Do not limit yourself to the beautiful location of Noir Flohay, but also explore the surrounding areas of the High Fens, Fagne des Deux Series and Fagne Walonne. You will have to cross these areas anyway to reach Noir Flohay itself.
In the Fagne de Deux series, near Baraque Michel, numerous solitary beech trees can be found in the snowy landscape. However, park rangers have closed some trails this winter for conservation reasons.
Title: “Whispers of Winter”, Fagne des Deux series” (Guy, 2021)
This photograph is a minimalist study in contrast and form. Two bare birches stand against a vast blanket of snow, their dark lines breaking through the immaculate white plain. The horizon is blurred, with subtle shading suggesting depth. Negative space enhances the impact, while the high-key treatment allows the trees to emerge from the void. Embodying the ‘less is more’ principle, this image evokes the serene stillness of a snowy landscape.
Title: “The Arch of Winter”(Guy, 2021)
The black-and-white photograph shows a lone, bent tree covered in snow, bending under its winter burden. Its heavy branches hang like a silent ode to the power of nature as they stand out sharply against the even white of the landscape. The simplicity of the composition and high contrast emphasise both struggle and grace. In monochrome, the tree takes on a dramatic, almost expressive look, evoking resilience and the raw beauty of nature in adversity.
Title: “Black and white”, Fagne Wallonne (Guy, 2018)
This photograph is a high-contrast composition, with the darkness of the leafless trees standing out defiantly against a blanket of snow. A small, dark pool of water is the only respite from the monochrome landscape, attracting attention and forming a focal point in the otherwise unbroken white. The vertical lines of the bare trees create a subtle rhythm. This winter scene creates a sense of desolation and peace, a frozen moment of nature’s stillness. The image exhibits minimalism and contrast and captures the rawness of a winter scene with a sophisticated aesthetic. There is ample negative space, allowing the subjects to stand out clearly and purposefully.
Let us zoom in on one of nature’s most incredible shows – those famous valleys near the High Fens, bulging with wild daffodils in spring. Imagine field after field turning into a sea of yellow as these daffodils emerge. It is not just a local secret; people know this flower feast from far and wide.
Moreover, here comes the best part: when the snow melts away and the mud is not a killjoy, you can go out and explore. We are talking longer walks, deeper into nature. Imagine – April is coming, and the Holzwarche Valley, on the edge of Germany, is putting on a show with these beautiful daffodils. It is like the festival of nature; believe me, you do not want to miss this!”
Not far from Noir Flohay, in the Holzwarche Valley, you can witness the stunning spectacle of meadows adorned with wild daffodils in spring. A gently winding path cuts through a field of blooming yellow daffodils, like an invitation to explore the spring landscape. The flowers sparkle in the sunlight, their vibrant colour contrasting with the dry grass and shadowy background of bare trees and shrubs. The image exudes a sense of tranquillity and natural beauty, while the path guides the eye and arouses curiosity about what lies hidden beyond. The simplicity of the composition and the play of colours between yellow, green and earth tones emphasise the awakening of nature in a serene springtime. (Guy, 2022)
Tip #13: Unleash your creativity and create a series of photos that tell a compelling story.
By this, I mean a coherent set of photos expressed in style or story. A possible approach is a report about your favourite nature reserve, a particular species or subject, all photos with the same characteristics, etc.
A story of silence and perseverance emerges in a landscape where cold, fog and snow reign. Shrouded in a monochrome palette, the forest tells a history of struggle and resurrection. The series below captures six moments of simplicity, each a paragon of minimalism.
The fog plays a crucial role in the story, like a curtain that dampens everything unnecessary. Only the trees remain standing, their silhouettes sharply outlined against a softening background. These birches, battered by fire and time, fight back-their broken branches resemble wings, a silent promise of hope.
From proud upright trunks to those resting in their snow beds, each photograph documents a cycle of life and decay. The black-and-white editing enhances the aesthetic of minimalism, while the square cuts emphasise balance and order.
It is not just a series; it is a poetic reportage. Each image, whether a young birch in the mist or a fallen tree in the snow, testifies to the stark beauty of a natural area trying to reclaim itself. The result is a visual diary of nature’s resilience and fragility in its purest form.
My series of six photographs, “1,2, Tree,” form a black-and-white, minimalist interpretation of winter and show my deep admiration for the beauty of nature (Guy, 2018).
Conclusions on minimal winter photography in Noir Flohay.
Picture this: Noir Flohay, shrouded in its winter splendour, waiting for you to stop and look. This is not just a place; it is an experience. In winter, the High Fens transform into a world where time seems to stand still. The trees are hushed, the fens frozen, and everything breathes a serene, contemplative atmosphere.
This is precisely where minimalist landscape photography comes alive. It is all about the quiet power of nature: how trees draw lines against a misty sky, how light and shadow dance between snow and earth. Those little details, subtle nuances, give your images power.
And then that magical moment: the sun sinks, casting a final golden glow on frosted branches, and suddenly you feel winter in all its glory. You click, and time seems to stand still for a split second. It is as if nature is whispering to you: ‘See? Sometimes less really is more.’
For those living in Belgium or the southern Netherlands, Noir Flohay is the perfect day trip. However, make it a longer adventure—it is only worth it. There are plenty of accommodation options, and you can find all the information on their website: www.ostbelgien.eu
It is worth the time and effort. Please leave your questions or remarks here below.
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