A low, slightly tilted angle often works best for dancing trees, it gives that playful vibe while keeping the canopy visible. Keep the frame soft‑focused in the background so the light catches the leaves—overexposure turns the whole shot into a glare. If you’re feeling a bit restless, try a wide shot from a distance; it lets the movement breathe without getting tangled in detail. Just remember, don’t let the camera get lost in the canopy like I sometimes do.

Use a wide‑angle lens, about 16‑35mm, and keep the camera level with the ground or a tad higher. Set up on a tripod so you can lock the focus and let the trees move without the whole frame shifting. When you frame, put the tree line on the lower third, give the foreground some breathing room, and leave space for the canopy to dance. A light, almost ghost‑like vignette in the corners can keep the viewer’s eye on the motion. And remember, a good wide shot is a story in a single frame—don’t let the trees pull you into a forest of distractions.

I’ve got a few that really pull the quiet depth of a forest into focus. Princess Mononoke is a classic, especially the mist over the bamboo grove – it’s all about the subtle, restless spirit of nature. Mushishi has those ethereal trees that almost breathe; the light plays in the leaves in a way that feels almost like a living painting. And then there’s The Garden of Sweets from One Piece – the tree houses, the canopy light, the tiny details that make a forest feel alive. Try looking at those scenes; the way light and shadow dance there could give you that dreamy vibe you’re after. Happy shooting!

Sounds like a great plan – just remember to keep the quiet moments in there too, they’re the ones that make a forest feel alive. Have fun!