Dave Zubraski: Do This If You’re Just Starting Out In Garden Photography
Having photographed flowers and gardens for over 25 years, Dave Zubraski has rightfully established himself as one of the UK’s leading horticultural photographers.
His work has been used in various magazines and publications worldwide, as well as in advertising campaigns, books and calendars.
I spoke to Dave to understand how he became interested in this career path and what advice he has for those looking to begin a career in garden photography.
Imagery featured in this article has been provided with permission by Dave Zubraski.
What Led You To A Career In Garden Photography?
“I went to an exhibition of Robert Mapplethorpe’s flower photographs and found them very inspiring,” Dave shares.
“I then simply started my own career by sending some flower images to Carol Sharp’s photographic garden library ‘Flower Photos'”.
What Is It About Plants That Make You Passionate About Photographing Them?
“I just find plants and flowers incredible. The way that nature’s colours harmonise with the patterns and shapes – there are endless variations.
I also love the fact that you can work on your own. Early in the morning on an overcast day, everything just looks great. There are often no people and you can just hear the birds singing.
“Everything feels fresh and alive. It is very rewarding in a creative way.”
How Do You Go About Capturing The ‘Perfect Image’?
“I often set up a diffuser first if it is a very bright day and then decide which lens would be most suitable,” Dave explains. “I use a macro for close-up shots, a telephoto if I am standing back to get more of the plant in the shot or a wide-angle lens.
“Next, I go about finding the best angle and aperture. I often take several shots with different apertures and decide later which one I like best. Using something like F2.8 or F4 is great to blur the background, which may be distracting from the main subject.
“The perfect image could be many different things, depending on what I am shooting. With flowers and plants, I try to show the most interesting features. It could be the pattern on the petals or leaves or the way the colours merge.
“I try to get an angle that gives a bit of movement to the shot so it doesn’t look too static.”
Do You Have Any Favourite Plants To Photograph? Why Are They Your Favourite?
“It is difficult to choose a favourite, but something like the Echinops ritro ‘Veitch’s Blue’ would definitely be one. When you look closely the shape, colour and detail of the tiny spikes, it’s truly amazing.
“Nigella damascena is another favourite. The protective cage-like structure that forms around the seed head is interesting.
“I also like to photograph the lovely Fritillaria meleagris. It just looks so balanced and delicate.”
What Has Been One Of Your Favourite Experiences During Your Career?
“Early on in my career, an image of a Narcissus I took was used by Sainsbury’s.
“One day, around Easter time, I drove into the local Sainsbury’s car park and the image was used on very large banners across the car park. Inside the store, they had used the same image on Easter posters and packaging.
“I thought it looked great.”
Can You Explain Some Of The Challenges With Garden Photography? What Difficulties Have You Faced?
“The weather can be challenging. Too bright, too windy, too rainy – there is always something to complain about!
“Getting in very early can sometimes be difficult. I prefer to start around sunrise.”
How Do You Go About Photographing Plants? What Is Unique About Your Process?
“I don’t really think there is anything particularly unique about the way I work,” Dave simply states.
“I just try to make the plants look the best and interesting as I can.”
What’s Next For You?
“I hope to carry on working and improving and try and stay as fit as I can. Really, I view every day I go out as a new project, as I find it all very enjoyable and creative.
“I just got the cover photo on the new 2024 Bluten Bilder Flower Calendar – it looks great!”
What Advice Would You Give To Those Thinking About Getting Into Photography?
“I think it is the same as anything else,” he shares. “If you are really interested in doing something and you put all your energy and time into it, you will eventually succeed.
“Try and study other photographers’ work and read as much as you can about it. As with everything, be original and create your own style.”
