Nature Journaling
Getting Started
Go on a walk at a local park. Find something interesting and draw it. Bring a sketchbook with blank pages, a regular pencil, an eraser, and a camera. Optional: something with color (colored pencils, crayons, paint etc.) you can bring these or add the color after you get home. Keep it simple at first. As you continue journaling, you will figure out what you like using on a regular basis.
Some things we found helpful
Include information about where and when.
As you are observing your subject think about these three things:
I notice…
I wonder…
It reminds me of…
You can decide whether to record this every time or just discuss it.
3. Take pictures of your subject for reference if you choose to add to your drawing at home. You can also add the photos into your journal if you like.
This was my choice. I thought the bumps and the fact that the branch didn’t have any bark was interesting.
My drawing skills need some work, so I like to use photos in my journal. I want to get better at drawing so I’ll need to keep practicing. My son walked me through how to layer the colors on the seed pod.
Now for the real artists in the family…
The boys chose leaves…
And of course the tree must be climbed.
Ready to try nature journaling?
Here are some Ideas to get you started. Have fun!