Improving Identification Accuracy Through Photography

Taking an accurate photo is crucial for proper plant identification. Here’s how you can enhance the recognition rate of the App by capturing better photos.

1. Appropriate Distance

The correct shooting distance is essential to capture clear images. Photos taken too close may blur or lose detail, while those taken from too far away might not show clear plant details.

Photos that are too distant – a

Photos that are too distant – b

Photos that are too close – a

Photos that are too close – b

For tall trees:

Avoid long-distance shots that try to capture the entire tree, as details are often lost.
Focus on closer shots of parts of the tree unless the tree’s overall shape is necessary for identification.

Photos at a suitable distance – a

Photos at a suitable distance – b

2. Suitable Backgrounds

The background should complement the plant and not distract from it.

For tall trees:

It’s uncommon for large trees to have cluttered backgrounds due to their size.
Seedlings of large trees might present this issue.

When shooting close-ups:

Use the trunk as a background to emphasize the subject.

Create a blur effect by maintaining a significant distance between the subject and the background to highlight the plant.

3. Appropriate Angle

The angle of the shot can affect the accuracy and effectiveness of identification.

Aim to have the subject directly face the camera. Avoid angles that are too skewed or sideways.

Photos with inappropriate angles – a

Photos with inappropriate angles – b

Photos with appropriate angles – a

Photos with appropriate angles – b

4. Proper Lighting

Good lighting is key to capturing plant details.

Avoid backlighting, which can darken the subject too much, losing details.
Overexposure can wash out details as well.

Photo taken against the light

Overexposed photo

5. Selecting Identifiable Features

Recommended parts to photograph:

Leafy twigs: They reflect the shape, margin, tip of the leaves, and the way leaves attach to the stem (arrangement), which are crucial for identification.
- Leaf arrangement is typically categorized into three types: alternate, opposite, and whorled.

Flowers and fruits: These reproductive parts often differ significantly between species and are useful for identification. However, if flowers and fruits are similar within a genus, leaf characteristics should take precedence.

Tips: When photographing leaves, make sure that the frame includes complete leaves without large areas of damage. A whole, undamaged leaf can provide a clear representation of its characteristics, which is essential for accurate identification.

Parts not recommended for photography:

The whole plant: Often lacks the necessary detail for identification.
Bark: Usually lacks distinct features for identification, except for certain species like the Paperbark Maple (Acer griseum) or Crape-Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica).

Paperbark Maple (Acer griseum)

Crape-Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)

6. Troubleshooting

Dealing with Glare on Leaves:

Problem: Leaves with glossy surfaces can reflect sunlight, causing glare that obscures details.
Solution: Try photographing on an overcast day or in the shade to minimize reflections. Use a polarizing filter if available, or position yourself so the sun is behind you.

Managing Windy Conditions:

Problem: Wind can cause plants to move, resulting in blurred images.
Solution: Wait for a calm moment to take the picture. If possible, use a faster shutter speed to freeze motion. Alternatively, use a makeshift shield to block the wind.

Avoiding Shadows in Direct Sunlight:

Problem: Direct sunlight can create harsh shadows, especially during midday.
Solution: Use a diffuser to soften the light (even a white sheet can work). If without equipment, seek an evenly shaded area, or photograph during the softer light of early morning or late afternoon.

Handling Overcast and Low Light Conditions:

Problem: Overcast skies or dusk conditions can result in underexposed photos.
Solution: Increase the camera’s ISO setting or use a slower shutter speed to allow more light in. Make sure your hands are steady or use a tripod to prevent shaking.

Photographing Small or Complex Details:

Problem: Small details like tiny flowers or complex leaf arrangements may not be captured clearly.
Solution: Use the macro mode if available on your camera, or use a lens designed for close-up photography. Ensure ample light and a steady hand or support.

Mitigating Background Clutter:

Problem: A cluttered background can distract from the plant you’re trying to identify.
Solution: Reposition yourself for a cleaner background, or gently hold a piece of plain paper or fabric behind the subject to isolate it.

Coping with Reflective Surfaces like Water:

Problem: When photographing aquatic plants or plants with wet leaves, reflections can interfere with detail.
Solution: Polarizing filters are ideal for reducing reflection. Without a filter, adjust your angle to minimize reflected light, or wait for a moment when the water is still.

Correcting White Balance Issues:

Problem: Photos can sometimes have a blue or orange tint if the white balance isn’t set correctly, affecting the plant’s true colors.
Solution: Adjust the white balance setting on your camera according to the lighting conditions, or set it to auto. In post-processing, software can also correct color balance.

Addressing Focusing Problems:

Problem: Auto-focus may have trouble with plants due to their intricate details and textures.
Solution: Use manual focus if necessary. On a smartphone, tap the screen where you want to focus to tell the camera where to lock in.

Overcoming Poor Zoom Quality:

Problem: Digital zoom can degrade image quality, making identification harder.
Solution: Instead of using zoom, move closer to the subject if possible. If you need to use zoom, ensure it’s optical zoom, not digital.

For best results, follow these guidelines when using our App to identify plants. Good photos will lead to more accurate identifications and a better understanding of the flora around you.