Scott Leggo, GNARLED (PLACES WILDERNESS 2023)

This tree was a real challenge to photograph. With constant rain over three days I was determined to capture it at its best, where the water brings out the colours of the bark. I was hoping for a small break in the weather, but mother nature had other ideas. I was due back in the gallery in Canberra, so I had a shortening window to capture it or I would miss out. Battling wind and persistent rain while trying to keep the lens dry, I ultimately captured this tree as I wanted; wet from the rain and the colours of the bark prominent. These old gnarly snow gums certainly don't always look like this, but when soaking wet and at the right time year, the colours of the bark really do add an extra dimension to these magnificent ancient trees.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.