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.
A journey towards photographing wild tawny owls in local ancient woodlands using ethical fieldcraft skills and observations.
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.
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.
This story is a personal favourite of mine (originally published December 2022), so I’ve decided to re-release it with a more in-depth account of the experience. I felt the original didn’t quite capture the magic of that afternoon, so I’ve reworked the narrative to bring you closer to the fells with me. Teaser: Image of …
Read more “Photographing the Scafell Range from Pillar During a Glorious Winter’s Sunset”
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 …
Read more “Here’s how I Photographed Wood Mice in Wintry Conditions”
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.
Wild Rainford is a project spanning all four seasons, dedicated to capturing the resilience and beauty of our local natural world. As the project slowly draws to a close, take a brief look at the behind-the-scenes of the making of Wild Rainford.
Somehow, the legendary Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM is eleven years old, but is it still relevant for wildlife photography in today’s era of mirrorless cameras? This post reveals all: the lens’s performance, image quality, and suitability for wildlife photography. Many beginner wildlife photographers fall into the trap of believing that to be …
Read more “Is the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Still Relevant for Wildlife Photography?”
Looking back, 2025 was the year of wildlife photography. I’ve always had a passion for wildlife, but until recently, I only ever photographed landscapes. For some reason, I resisted the urge to invest my efforts into wildlife photography. By doing so, I overlooked just how addictive, enjoyable, and truly rewarding wildlife photography could be. My …
Read more “Special Moments from 2025, a Year of Wildlife Photography”
Lunt Meadows is an iconic wetland nature reserve located in Merseyside. The site itself is a prime example of the value of rewilding. Just over a decade ago, Lunt Meadows as we know it today didn’t exist. Instead, it was heavily farmed arable land, void of life. Now, it is a haven for countless species, …
Read more “The Magic of Winter at Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve”