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 spring sunshine on...

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 surroundings and often...

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 was finally donated...