Welcome to my Field Notes!
My Field Notes are a collection of behind-the-scenes insights from real moments out in the field. Featured posts reveal my decision-making, fieldcraft, seasonal transitions, and learning experiences that unfold in the build‑up to each photograph. All posts are raw and true to the experience.
Field Notes are published regularly and follow the changing seasons.
Nature Photography’s Number One Rule: Expect the Unexpected
One of my favourite aspects of nature photography is the sheer diversity of subjects. One moment I can be out in the Lake District fells photographing mountainous landscapes at sunrise, and the next, hunkered down in grassy margins watching local barn owls quarter a meadow. Whatever my subject, one rule was drilled into me from…
Capturing My Wildlife Photograph of the Year During a Thunderstorm
Towards the end of May 2026, an unseasonal heatwave came to an explosive end, with some of the most active thunderstorms we’ve seen in a long time. During the build-up to the storms, I managed to capture the best wildlife photograph I’ve ever taken: a barn owl perched on a lamp post in the darkness…
Photographing Beautiful Spring Moments Around Rainford Village
Today’s Field Notes post is all about photographing nature and the beauty of early spring on my doorstep, Rainford Village. If you’re reading this on mobile, you might enjoy the photos even more on a larger screen. This set is one of my favourites so far this spring. Signs of spring began to arrive earlier…
Photographing Mad March Hares in the Beautiful English Countryside
A month-long mission to photograph the beauty of mad March hares and their elusive boxing behaviour.
Tracking Tawny Owls: A Photography Journey in Ancient Woodlands
A journey towards photographing wild tawny owls in local ancient woodlands using ethical fieldcraft skills and observations.
Capturing Spring: The Season of New Life
With spring finally here, the countryside slowly awakens with plenty of photographic potential. This Field Note shares the subjects and subtle moments I hope to capture, from carpets of bluebells and wild garlic to the energetic presence of brown hares.
Barn Owl No-show: The Harsh Reality of Wildlife Photography
The harsh reality of wildlife photography – even under perfect conditions, nothing is ever guaranteed. Behind every successful encounter are multiple unsuccessful trips – a truth you don’t hear all too often.
Here’s how I Photographed Wood Mice in Wintry Conditions
Winter can be a frustrating season for nature photography when the conditions don’t match our expectations. But now and then, winter delivers a fleeting moment of something special, and when it does, you have to make the most of it. This Field Notes post shows how I capitalised on a very brief spell of wintry…
A Close Encounter with a Barn Owl at Dusk
A quiet dusk encounter with a barn owl, shaped by patience, concealment, and a deep respect for nature. A reminder that fieldcraft matters more than gear.
