This is a collection of my best photos of Slovenia in 2020. This time I deliberately focused on “non-classic” locations and shots. Here you will find mostly nature and landscapes. These are the scenes I like photographing the most. Getting shots like this is harder. It takes much more time, effort and luck. Essentially, this is what photography is about.
“Best of the year” collections from 2019, 2018, 2015 and 2014.
These two apple trees were covered in hoarfrost when we arrived. Soča river runs nearby and the humidity froze and covered the whole area. No snow, but this is even more delicate and beautiful.
Lake Bohinj in winter. After long hours of waiting in a thick fog the sun finally came through and created this beautiful moment. The photo was taken during my winter photography workshop in Slovenia.
My colleague Tomo Jeseničnik took an image that soon became iconic shot of Slovenia back in 2007. Since then, that tree is slowly passing away and nowadays it is only a shadow from its former beauty. The tree above grows nearby and it became “the successor” in representing the lake.
When travelling to Notranjska forests I often stop by at this cherry tree. I have photographed in different seasons and light conditions. This is a view from above, captured with a drone. I like this shot for its freshness, it really represents early spring. And the road leading into the scene helps with composition.
I enjoy photographing smaller scenes as well. In particular, wildflowers. The wild daffodils, the lady’s slipper orchids, the edelweis – three of my favourite wildflowers. A big thank you to Miro the Hero who was keeping me company on all these “flower” adventures last year. You are the true flower power! 🙂
Kočevski Rog. One of the most beautiful sceneries I witnessed last year. Spring forest and a carpet of wild garlic. Here is my vlog from this place.
Kočevsko is area of Slovenia with the densest forests and biggest number of primeval, ancient forests. This scene captured my attention because of the sharp spike of the broken tree. The fallen tree trunks are being slowly replaced by young beech trees that have sprung up from the forest ground.
A lucky encounter with this alpha brown bear was a memorable experience. I was in a hide with Miha from Slovenian Bears for two hours and nothing. Out of boredom I was fooling with my camera, focused and set the exposure for the sunlit spot in the forest. Couple of minutes later the king arrives, stops at the exact spot sniffs around, walks away into the woods…
Zadnjica valley is one of the narrow Alpine valleys in Julian Alps where I often start my hikes. This time I opted to photograph in the valley as I saw the stream all swollen from recent rains. I have never seen such a beautiful flow in this part of the Alps.
An evening at Prednje Robičje, a small insignificant peak which offers unparalleled views on surrounding area. I visited this place couple of times this year. In summer and in winter. Both highly recommended.
One of the best moments in the mountains this year was photographing full moon from Mt Mangart. This shot was inspired by my dear friend and excellent photographer Dan Briški.
Another shot from Prednje Robičje. Jošt was the perfect model here as we were climbing up for sunrise.
Mt Šmarna gora (Virgin Mary mountain) peaking out of fog on an autumn morning. Autumn is the best season for moody shots like this when we often have inversion. The trick is how high is the fog – this is what us photographers always try to guesstimate. Often without success but this time it worked out perfectly.
The forests of Snežnik are one of the most beautiful in Slovenia. Snežnik also has a unique climate and autumn colours arrive there early. Check out my best autumn photos of 2020 too.
I’ve driven past this house multiple times and it never caught my attention. Until this autumn when the trees coloured nicely. This shot ended up being one of my favourite of the season.
Clash of seasons is such a cliche phrase but suitable for this shot. A literal clash, when snow damaged and broke so many trees who haven’t yet shed their leaves. Nevertheless, it is beautiful and the photo deserves a place in this Best photos of Slovenia collection.
While in the valley there was still autumn and beautiful colours, the peaks of Julian Alps were already under thick snow. This is Mt Škrlatica, the second highest peak of Slovenia. As a photographer I really like this mountain – its shape and its size make for great photos.
A newly discovered gem of a location. And despite incredible views and picturesque church on the top, this is the photo I like the most.
Late autumn in a forest. What a difference from the peak season. The reds replace yellows and greens. In combination with cool tones of the fog it creates almost magical atmosphere. Some people would say cursed forest, to me it is enchanted.
Mt Grmada near Ljubljana is not any significant peak. I climb it frequently as it is close to my home and is great to keep fit for the real mountains. I all 25 years I never took my camera with, but this time the frost was promising and I ended up with this wide angle shot.
Best photos of Slovenia in 2020 – conclusion
So this is my short best photos of Slovenia collection and I hope you like it. After a year of exploring less photographed locations I know my my country much better and I will include some of the places into my future photography workshops. I also added most of these places to PhotoHound, so if you want to find new places to shoot you are welcome to check it out.
“Best of the year” collections from 2021, 2019, 2018, 2015 and 2014.
Thank you for visiting and Happy New Year!
1 comment