Nature journaling is more than a hobby. It is more than an art form. In fact it is a way of seeing the world. Whether you are nature journaling at home or going on an extreme adventure it can add meaning to your life. Join me tonight as I forsake the comfort of my home to bring a nature journal adventure to you!
I saw that the tides were going to be very low right after sunset. I wrote it down in my calendar with indelible ink. This would be my only chance all month. If I really wanted to nature journal nocturnal inter-tidal zone again I had to do it. However, as the day got closer the weather forecast did not look good. They were predicting strong winds, cold temperatures, and a big swell on the ocean. Would I give up now? Instead of giving up I used a classic accountability strategy. I invited a friend. Not only was I accountable to another person but it would also be safer and more fun.
In addition to bringing a friend, having the right gear will make or break your nature journal adventure. Below, I share the gear that has helped me the most. If you click on the links to shop for these items I will get a small percentage to support my work.
Best Gear for Nature Journaling at Night
- Binder Clips: These are one of my most essential art and nature journaling tools! Without them I would not have been able to nature journal in the windy conditions, my paper would warp with watercolor, etc. I usually try to have four of them in my field kit and four at my desk in my studio. You can buy an 8 pack here.
- Book Light: It is helpful to have two sources of light when nature journaling at night. One is directed always at your paper and one you can direct at your subject or make sure you are not about to step into a deep hole full of sea urchins. A book light that clips onto your journal is useful for many other things as well. I use them as a reading light at home and whenever I go on a nature journal expedition or camping. I can’t find the one I have online but this is a similar one.
- I’m also interested in experimenting with a book light that hangs around your neck such as this one. If you try it out let me know how it works.
- Black Light: One of the most fun tools for nature journaling at night is a UV or Black Light. Some plants, animals, and minerals will change colors or stand out more when you shine a black light on them. Sea anemones, certain flowers, scorpions, and certain crystals will show up! Here is a black light that is also water resistant so would be good for night time intertidal zone adventures.
Just getting started with nature journaling?
Need more tips? check out this post. It will walk you through how to nature journal in 10 steps.
Need help choosing nature journaling supplies? Check out Nature Journaling Supplies: What You Need and What You Do Not
