Romancing The Swamp – Part 2

Atlantic White Cedars in the New Jersey Pine Barrens

This is the second of a two-part post on the strangely beautiful Atlantic White Cedar swamps in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. As stated in my previous post, these trees grow in dense swamps by the sides of waterways and play a vital role in filtering water and protecting the riverbanks from erosion. They are also the reason the waterways in the Pine Barrens are the same brown color as tea.

Dead Cedars Bad Beavers

When beavers dam a waterway the cedars along the banks die due to the higher water level their dams create. Macabre stands of dead cedars can be seen beside many rivers and creeks in the Pine Barrens. Because Atlantic White Cedar wood is so durable the dead trees will stand for years.

Morning fog brings an almost mystical nature to these swamps.

Dead in the Water #5 by Richard Lewis 2013

Dead in the Water #6 by Richard Lewis 2013

Goshen Pond by Richard Lewis 2013

Dead Cedars along creeks and rivers are the iconic look of the New Jersey Pine Barrens.

Mullica River Winter Panorama by Richard Lewis 2013

Along the Wading River by Richard Lewis 2012

How I Did It – When photographing cedar swamps in the New Jersey Pinelands what you wear is as important as what type of camera gear you bring. Swamps are wet so waterproof boots or even waders are necessary. Long sleeve shirts and heavy pants will keep you from getting torn up in the undergrowth and bitten by the bugs. Once you are dressed for the part, don’t hesitate getting in deep. The black and white photograph above was taken from the middle of the Wading River while standing in knee high water.

For more photographs of the Atlantic White Cedar swamps in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey see my previous post.

Enjoy.

Want to be more creative with your camera? I can help so feel free to contact me. 

Like these photographs? They’re for sale as fine art prints. Please visit my photography website to see more.