As a wildlife and nature photographer, being out in the wild is my way of connecting to the world. But what do you do when surgery keeps you from wandering through forests and fields? You go through your past experiences, reflect, and write about the beauty you’ve witnessed. Fall is my favourite time of year. There’s nothing quite like walking through nature, breathing in the crisp air, wrapped in a cozy sweater with a camera in hand. Before my surgery, I had the chance to immerse myself in one of autumn’s hidden treasures—mushroom hunting.
During my first mushroom hunting adventure, I came across something unexpected—what I now know are staghorn mushrooms. These vibrant, yellow fungi didn’t look like typical mushrooms at all, and I was captivated by their unusual form. They were scattered all over fallen logs, playing their part in breaking down the wood and feeding the forest. Their bright color stood out, and it struck me how easily I might have missed them in everyday life. But being on this quest, I allowed myself to be curious and open to the different, often overlooked, wonders of the fungi world.
One of the most fascinating discoveries I made was finding fungi mixed in with flower rock cactus and bird’s nest fungi—something I had never seen before in my life. The combination of these unique plants and fungi was mesmerizing, showcasing nature’s endless creativity and surprising beauty. It was a reminder of how much there is to discover when we take the time to really look.
One of the most fascinating finds on my mushroom journey was a cluster that looked just like big pieces of Swiss cheese, complete with holes scattered throughout. I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by how nature creates such unique and intricate designs. The mushroom’s texture and form reminded me of how endless the diversity in nature truly is, with each species contributing its own bit of wonder to the forest.
Being that this is my first year marked on focusing on fall mushrooms, and rather than worrying about getting the perfect shot, I took my time. I scouted different areas, observing how and where mushrooms thrived. My goal was to understand their environments so I could come back later with my macro lens to capture their intricate details.
Please note, that while I enjoyed photographing mushrooms, I didn’t focus on identifying their specific types, as I’m not an expert. Mushrooms can be fascinating but also dangerous—many are toxic and potentially deadly to humans. I highly recommend against picking or eating mushrooms unless you are well-versed in mushroom identification and understand the risks involved. My personal preference is to admire them in their natural environment, where they do so much good for the forest.
Mushrooms are more than just a subject for photos—they are essential to the health of the forest. These incredible organisms break down organic matter, recycle nutrients, and play a vital role in keeping ecosystems balanced. They’re a natural food source for many wild animals, and the forest itself depends on the work they do. It’s important to remember that while humans can grow their own food, wildlife and forests depend on what nature provides.
I always advocate for leaving mushrooms undisturbed. Picking them for personal use not only disrupts their crucial role in the ecosystem but also takes away food and resources that wild animals rely on for survival. Mushrooms contribute to the forest’s ability to thrive, and by letting them be, we allow nature to continue its delicate and vital work. The forest needs them just as much as we need the forest to breathe, and our food sources should come from places where we can cultivate them, not from taking away what the wilderness depends on.
During my journey, I was captivated by the variety of fungi I encountered. From bright orange caps to delicate white clusters, each mushroom seemed to have its own personality, blending seamlessly into the moss, lichen, and fallen leaves around it. It was incredible to witness how these elements of nature work together, each playing a vital role in the forest's ecosystem. Observing how mushrooms, moss, lichen, and trees coexist and support one another deepened my appreciation for the complexity and beauty of nature.
Along the way, I even captured several slugs chowing down on the mushrooms, reminding me that these fungi are more than just beautiful—they are an essential food source for many wild animals. It’s a powerful example of how everything in the forest has its place and purpose. Slugs, insects, and other creatures rely on these mushrooms for nourishment, underscoring the importance of leaving them undisturbed in their natural environment.
Everything in the forest lives in perfect harmony—mushrooms breaking down organic matter, moss absorbing moisture, lichen filtering the air, and trees providing shelter and sustenance. It’s like watching a symphony, with each organism contributing its unique part to the greater whole. This intricate balance is a reminder of how amazing nature truly is, how all the different elements are interconnected, and how every piece, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in the forest’s life cycle.
While exploring, I stumbled upon a bright yellow fungi that looked like a booger on a log. After some research, I discovered it was actually slime mould—something I’d never encountered before! What fascinated me even more was learning that slime mould, despite its unusual appearance, works in harmony with other types of mushrooms in the same area. Together, they contribute to the decomposition of organic matter, helping the forest floor thrive. It was a reminder that even the strangest-looking organisms play a vital role in the ecosystem.
Beyond the mushrooms, the changing leaves were another focus. Their vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows painted the forest with such richness. I couldn’t resist capturing how they carpeted the ground, framing the mushrooms in bursts of color. Even the smallest leaf, fallen and crumpled, seemed to have a story to tell in the grand display of autumn.
Though I’m unable to venture out into the wild right now, I’m thankful for the moments I had before my surgery. Flipping through my photos and reflecting on these experiences brings me a sense of connection to nature, even from home. Recovery may keep me indoors for now, but it can’t take away the magic of fall that I’ve already captured.
Magic indeed!