There is something of the night about forests.

Even at the height of summer, even under the midday sun, they are places of murk and mystery, blotting out the light with a mille-feuille of foliage. At the heart of every forest is a darkness that bides its time.

And as the sun goes down, after that lovely hour of slanting golden light, this dark spirit reclaims its own. The forest is at its soundest.

On all but the darkest nights, it’s amazing what you can see once your eyes adjust. Wait quietly and patiently where the canopy is thinnest – at the forest’s edge, in a clearing, by the side of a road – let the stars and the moonlight work their magic.

Nocturnal Photography, although very challenging can also be one of the most rewarding photography experiences.

Not only is the time where the strangest and cryptic animals are most active, but in terms of photography, the creative freedom that you have with the lights, the shadows and the composition is fantastic.

Most of the pictures of this story were taken in Braulio Carrilo National Park in Costa Rica, with the help of Cope, an excellent friend and guide of the area. With him, we spent many, many nights walking the trails, and the dry river beds, standing silently for several hours with the attempt to hear the calling of an owl.

Next time you are in the forest, try to go at night and see what you can find. I definitely always learn something new from the experience.

And don’t forget to look up, in case an owl silently sweeps by.

Savour the moment.

Chris Jimenez – TakeMeToTheWild