A great way for anyone to monitor change in vegetation is to set up photo points. They are an easy way to identify changes that happen over time. They are especially useful for monitoring re-vegetation sites, weed invasions and after fires.The main thing you need is a camera and some basic equipment to set things up. Think carefully about what you want to photograph and what changes you might be looking for. It is a good idea to have a reference point in the photo such as a distinctive tree, post or sign. When you have decided on your sites it is a good idea to put a marker post such as a star-picket in the spot where you take the photo from. If there is room you can also put another post 5m to act as a sighting post so you know where to aim the camera each time. A GPS can be used to get the site co-ordinates in case you post gets moved.
When taking the shot take a note of how far the camera is zoomed in or out so you can repeat that setting next time. It is a good idea to try to photograph a view that is as close to normal as possible. If you use a wide-angle lens object at the edges will be distorted in size. Using a tripod helps to keep the camera at a consistent height. A great way of making sure you shots are consistent is to have a copy of previous photos of that site with you to help you frame the shot. It is best to take the follow-up photos at regular intervals depending on what your aim is it may be you want to take them once a month, once every six months or even just once a year. Below are some examples of photopoints taken at Tarra Bulga National Park.
Traralgon South and District Environmental Action 