Can you tell us the story behind your photo in this exhibition?
I happened across the grass snake in an old gutter, another shot called ‘life in the gutter’ also was highly commended! As the snake moved off into the undergrowth it crossed a log pile which is where I captured the image… the snake was tasting its way as it went! Good timing and a bit of luck!
How did you go about getting that shot?
A combination of the right lens focal length and aperture the get the DOF ‘Depth of field’ lying on the grass with the camera on the ground to get the best angle.
How long did you have to wait for this shot?
I happened across the snake so no waiting, I waiting 6 hours for a barn owl once! never showed up!
Did you use any particular equipment or software?
Adobe Lightroom – don’t like too much editing…. No more than 5 moins or I go and take the shot again.
What are your favourite scenes, species or motivations behind your photographs?
I love Owls, birds of prey, big cats…. mainly the predators. nesting or breeding season when displaying, lots of hunting etc. I want to create a moment captured in a still image.
What are the difficulties of wildlife and nature photography that you face?
Challenging myself to get a shot that’s different of an everyday animal, using field craft to get close and the subject to do what you want them to do…. hopefully!
What would you like people to think about when they see your work?
Simply to just enjoy the image, whether dramatic, colourful or brutal! Nature can provide it all.
How long have you been a photographer and how did you get started?
Born again after a few years (20) Always loved wildlife so there is endless opportunities!
What would you advise someone wanting to start taking photos of wildlife or nature in their local environment?
Know your subject, spend time watching to see if there’s any kind of routine (marking territory etc) then look at the shot you want to achieve. Position yourself and your camera in a position not to disturb the natural behaviour.
What projects are you working on now or have coming up?
Owls, Watervoles, kestrel in 2018… also trips to India and Maasai Mara
