Tigerbark Ficus Banyan Style
I initially styled this tree approximately 6 years ago in a workshop, and allowed it to grow almost wild for several years. Radically restyled two or three years ago with a large knob trimmed down on either side of the trunk and many branches pruned off. Several roots were grafted on (the most recent still has some foliage attached, it can be seen at the lower right side of the trunk). This year it was repotted into its final pot with the previous back as the new front. I'm currently undecided, but I had intended to grow some aerial roots from the lower branches to complete the banyan style. However, the trunk flare improved enough that I want to be sure not to hide it.
To see an updated photo, click here: www.flickr.com/photos/bonsaihiker/3998209753/in/set-72157...
Strobist info:
SB 28's in white shoot-through umbrellas slightly above camera right and left, gridded SB 80 DX low front/left to light interior of tree, Vivitar 5600 slightly above camera left, gelled with 1/2 CTO as rimlight. Flashes triggered with Cactus V2s's except SB 80 DX triggered with internal slave mode. See setup shot here.
Tigerbark Ficus Banyan Style
I initially styled this tree approximately 6 years ago in a workshop, and allowed it to grow almost wild for several years. Radically restyled two or three years ago with a large knob trimmed down on either side of the trunk and many branches pruned off. Several roots were grafted on (the most recent still has some foliage attached, it can be seen at the lower right side of the trunk). This year it was repotted into its final pot with the previous back as the new front. I'm currently undecided, but I had intended to grow some aerial roots from the lower branches to complete the banyan style. However, the trunk flare improved enough that I want to be sure not to hide it.
To see an updated photo, click here: www.flickr.com/photos/bonsaihiker/3998209753/in/set-72157...
Strobist info:
SB 28's in white shoot-through umbrellas slightly above camera right and left, gridded SB 80 DX low front/left to light interior of tree, Vivitar 5600 slightly above camera left, gelled with 1/2 CTO as rimlight. Flashes triggered with Cactus V2s's except SB 80 DX triggered with internal slave mode. See setup shot here.