What’s been the defining moment of your landscape
adventure to date?
I’ve certainly had plenty of highs and lows in my
photographic journey, from feeling dejected at
receiving rejection emails from competitions, to the
elation of being shortlisted and being rewarded with
having one’s work commended, or even winning
major prizes. However, my biggest reward has been
being accepted and recognised by those who I’ve
looked up to and been inspired by over the years.
Do you have any favourite local haunts?
I’ve lived in the Buckinghamshire area for almost
30 years and, even though I was aware of its close
proximity, only ever visited Burnham Beeches on the
very odd occasion. I have, however, come to know
this area of outstanding natural beauty intimately.
I’m such a regular there that most of the rangers
know me by name, and some even have an interest
in my photography. In return they have given me
an insight into the flora, fauna, history, geology and
wildlife of this location. Needless to say, this has
enriched my appreciation of this woodland and has
proved instrumental in being able to capture the
mood and character of similar locations.Talk us through your picture-taking process...
Step one is to leave your camera in the bag. Take your
time to walk in and around a location. In woodland,
for instance, I often look for a small clearing where
I can detach myself from my bag and tripod. I will
stand in complete silence for five minutes. Gradually
you begin to attune yourself to the surroundings.
I try to adopt a state of mindfulness, and at thisAbove A shallow
depth-of-field
helps this
delicate sapling
stand out against
the dark water
at B urnham
Beeches.Left A misty early
October morning
transforms Stoke
Common into
a beautifully
tranquil oasis
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