MY STORY

What sets my photographic experience apart is the privilege of accessing private lands. This allows me to immerse myself in focused projects and forge deep connections with the wildlife I encounter.

In recent times, my passion for photography has led me to embrace the world of YouTube. Through my channel, I invite you to join me on my adventures, as I document the wonders of the natural world. While public speaking doesn't come naturally to me, this platform has provided an opportunity for me to express myself and come out of my shell.

I genuinely hope that as you explore my website, you'll find joy and inspiration in the work displayed here. I'm always thrilled to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts, so please don't hesitate to reach out and share your thoughts and stories with me.

When I'm not enjoying moments with my family, I'm out in the wilds of the UK, pursuing my passion for capturing the beauty of birds and wildlife.

Amongst all the incredible creatures I photograph, owls hold a special place in my heart. They've become a signature focus of my work, and I'm constantly drawn to their enchanting presence. Exploring the diverse landscapes of Scotland and Iceland, and other wonderful places, I've been fortunate to encounter a wealth of opportunities to showcase their splendor.

Equipped with my trusted Canon gear, including the reliable Canon R5 camera and the remarkable 600mm f/4 IS II lens, I'm always ready to seize the moment.

My Photography Journey

Many have asked me how I stumbled into the world of wildlife photography. It's an interesting tale, actually, rooted in a life-altering experience that nudged me to follow my heart. Life has presented me with its fair share of challenges, and some years ago, my wife faced a serious illness that tested our strength. Balancing her care, the loss of my father at a young age, and the weight of other personal struggles took a toll on my health and well-being. Instead of seeking conventional remedies, I chose a different path—a path that led me into the world of wildlife and photography. It became my refuge, and way to recharge.

Over time, the cumulative effect of all those challenges has had its ups and downs, and I still find myself grappling with occasional bouts of mental strain and depression, however, I've become adept at recognising the signs and taking proactive measures. Whenever the shadows start to lengthen, I retreat into nature, camera in hand. Those solitary moments in the field provide the space I need to regroup, find peace, and capture the images that make me happy and feel connected to nature.

I'm grateful that my wife has since made a full recovery, and we now embark on some photography trips together.

My Unexpected Lesson from Lyme Disease

In 2016, during one of my photography outings with little owls, I had an encounter that I never anticipated. A simple tick bite, a common occurrence for outdoor enthusiasts like me, turned into an unpleasant experience I won't forget. What started as a small mark on my leg quickly escalated, and I found myself facing the challenges of Lyme disease for over a year. I must confess, I didn't pay much attention to the symptoms initially, falling into the trap of brushing them off. It wasn't until my leg turned black and my concerned wife urged me to seek medical advice that I finally received a diagnosis.

Fortunately, I consider myself lucky to have fully recovered from the disease. However, it was a wake-up call that significantly changed my approach to wildlife photography. I now emphasize the importance of taking ticks seriously and protecting myself against them. Regardless of the weather, I ensure I am fully covered and take necessary precautions to prevent future encounters.

Although very unsettling, this experience taught me an invaluable lesson and I urge others to be cautious and protect themselves in their own outdoor adventures.

My Unwavering Support

I want to take a moment to express my immense gratitude and give a huge thanks to my incredible wife, Emma. Without her unwavering support, my photography journey would never have reached the heights it has.

Emma has been there every step of the way, providing financial support for my equipment purchases (I shudder to think of the total amount I've invested) and understanding the countless hours I spend away from home, pursuing my passion in the field. Through life's highs and lows, she has been my rock and confidante for over 20 years and I owe a great deal of my success to her unwavering presence in my life.

What makes our partnership even more special is that Emma shares my love for wildlife and photography. Our holidays are always carefully crafted to include captivating encounters with nature. Our adventures in Scotland, a place we both hold dear, have become cherished traditions. And who could forget our unforgettable trip to Iceland where we will I’m sure head back in the years to come.

Emma's artistic skills are impressive in themselves, and when we collaborate, we make a great team. Her support has helped shape me into the photographer I am today, so its to here that I owe a big thanks.