NZ Post commissioned me to shoot the covers of the NZ Stamp Collection (an annual book containing all the year’s new postage stamps) again this year. The theme is ‘Take a Closer Look’, and follows on from the previous 3 covers we’ve done together. This year Kauri Trees were our focus.
I was fortunate that last year I was taken to a very beautiful Kauri Tree, by a remarkable man called Kevin Prime. I was commissioned to shot his portrait for a book project, and wanted to photograph this humble man against the might of the majestic Kauri. Kevin knew just the tree and he introduced me to it. A minute after we arrived, in the peace of the calm forest, a quiet whirling sound started up, and got louder. What was it? Suddenly the tree’s seeds started landing on my head and shoulders. It’s had cast it’s seeds out onto us. The hair stood up on my arm as Kevin said how auspicious this was.
So when NZ Post wanted a kauri for their annual stamp collection book, I knew exactly which tree I wanted to showcase to the nation. Never before have I seen such a distinctive bark pattern on a Kauri Tree. The hammered texture of this one is very striking, and almost appears as an embossed surface on the book box set.
If you’d like to see more of this beautful tree, or get a closer look at the distinctive bark patterning, have a look at our Kauri Tree photo collection.
Beautiful texture Rob. Isn’t nature amazing?
Stunning!
I always buy the annual stamp collection book. I’ll look forward to opening this one!
Hi Shayne. Yes, they’re a thing of quality, and I’ve met a few people that are very keen owners. It’s just come out, so looking forward to clapping eyes on it myself too. Rob
Yep, I have the entire series of stamp books – they`ve been out since 1984,Always get it and already have this year’s one.
It’s an illness Dave that you appear completely unconcerned about? Knowing the quality and nature of them I suspect many others have it too. Thanks for your support as always. Rob