Photography Tips for Mushroom Identification

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Mushrooms are tricky to identify from just a photo—there’s immense diversity and many look-a-like species. Plus, factors like growth stage, environment, and even parasitism can change how they appear. 

So, while you might get good at identifying 50, 100, or more species, you may hit a plateau. To get the most accurate ID, you’ll need to enter the realm of microscopy or even do DNA sequencing.

But for better photo-based IDs, capturing a variety of angles helps. Try taking photos of: 

  • The mushroom in its natural setting (include nearby plants or trees).

  • A clear shot of the cap.

  • The underside (where spores are released).

  • The whole mushroom, including the stem and base.

  • A cross-section (and look for any staining).

  • Use something like a ruler, coin, or your finger for scale.

  • Any unique features that catch your eye!

Extra info like time/date, location, smell, and what it's growing from (wood, soil, grass, etc.) can also help narrow down IDs!

Looking to get an ID? Consider uploading your observations to iNaturalist.org or join the Facebook MNS Mycology Group: Selangor Branch

Hi, I'm Joe, a mushroom hunter, traveler, and photographer who shares his stories and photos of fungi. With a sharp eye for spotting different mushroom species and a passion for exploring their habitats, I offer readers a unique window into the world of mycology.

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