Wild  Willow   Ways 

I recently enjoyed some time visiting family in Co. Leitrim, Ireland. On this pleasant morning I took my dog and my camera for a walk along the canal joining the Shannon and Erne waterways. It was a predominantly blue sky day, with plenty of sunshine, although the sun did disappear at times. This walk began at the Kilclare Canal Lock and meandered along the banks of the canal. I took a combination of photographs to include the natural landscape, the built landscape and some v

My most recent venture into woodland photography occurred in the autumn, when I seized the opportunity presented by the mild weather to photograph the vibrant colours that filled the forest. Since then my photography has primarily focused on taking advantage of the rare winter sunshine and its effect on various subjects as well as some macro photography as the spring flowers began to appear. During the past week I enjoyed rediscovering the art of woodland photography as I too

One of the main aims for my photography journey is to just keep getting out with my camera and taking pictures. They don't have to be great pictures, and most of them are far from great, but I do want to capture what catches my eye, keep making adjustments and improvements, and just enjoy being out taking photographs. I took advantage of the early morning light to capture how it fell on this old building. This is my first attempt at an image of this old boundary wall. It's a

I do most of my photography in the morning. I love to go out before the day starts, when the birds are singing, the streets are nearly deserted and the world looks as though it is ready and waiting for the day to begin. Sometimes my morning walk takes me into nature, whether it's my local woodland or park; sometimes I simply wander around my neighbourhood taking in the sights and sounds of a new day beginning. What I cherish most is the peace and calmness of the morning, the

A while back, I wrote a post about how selecting a single word, even at random, can serve as a foundation for our photography and enhance our creativity when we're unsure of what to capture. My post was inspired by a video from UK photographer Andrew Banner, who participated in a photography challenge centered around the word 'bleak'. He explained how the challenge of capturing a fitting image sparked his creativity, and he also explored the word 'direction' and its various u

I enjoy discovering new places for photography. Whether it's a woodland, coastal landscape, or country road, all offer fresh creative possibilities. At the beginning of the year, the wet and windy weather led me to explore nearby parks and estates for my photography outings, frequently discovering new local areas. Ireland is home to many large estates, which are historically believed to have covered more than 5% of the country. Some remain privately owned, while others are no

I often take my camera with me on a walk or short outing. My purpose is two-fold. Firstly, I like to take every opportunity to take photographs. Secondly, I aim to constantly review my images and discover how to improve my photography. I recently took a Sunday morning stroll along the promenade of a local coastal town. Sundays have a different vibe as they are more leisure focused, and my walk took in scenes from all walks of life. Families were out together enjoying some spr

When I think of meditation or mindfulness a few words come to mind: serenity, stillness, listening, being present, using our senses, focus, breath, calm, clarity, awareness, grounded, reflection When I am out with my camera I can experience many of the attributes of meditation and mindfulness. I am present in the moment, calm, listening and observing what is around me, engaging with my senses. My mind is clear and focused, my breathing is relaxed. I am aware of my surrounding

BACKGROUND I live close to a large suburban parkland which is home to a beautifully restored 18th century house. The house, which was originally a 17th century house called 'The Grange', was purchased in 1764 by David La Touche, a French Huguenot and first governor of the then newly established Bank of Ireland. La Touche refurbished and extended the house and renamed it Marlay House after his wife Elizabeth Marlay. After changing hands numerous times, the house and demesne wa

What’s the purpose of a photography project? A photography project is frequently recommended as a means to enhance our creativity, spark our interest, offer motivation, and give our photography a clear direction. Engaging in a project can push us beyond our comfort zone, thus improving our skills, and achieving a tangible result, like a photo book or exhibition, can give us a sense of fulfillment. A project can help move you out of your comfort zone and try new techniques. Wh