October
Well what a busy month October was, not just for me but the deer I have spent photographing over the last three weeks. I have never witnessed so much activity during the annual deer rut as I have this year and managed to get some great images. I've probably walked quite a few miles tracking them down so now is time to wind down a bit. There is still plenty to photograph during Autumn with some stunning Autumnal colours when the sun decides to show! I have also been busy leading several photography tuition days with clients wanting to witness the deer rut. I've also spent many an hour in the local forests on 'fungi forays'. Great fun with so many varieties around this Autumn.
A casualty of the rut. He was back guarding his harem shortly after the fight.
White hart. Of all the deer, Fallow are my favourite.
It's not just deer I've been in pursuit of but the magical world of fungi. I've tried a few locations locally for the first time such as Warburg nature reserve, Burnham Beeches, Wytham wood & Bernwood Forest. All great locations and worth visiting especially during Autumn.
Magpie Inkcap, Warburg nature reserve near Henley.
Porcelain mushroom, Burnham Beeches, Bucks.
Mid October I took a break from the deer and fungi and headed to the Hawk conservancy trust in Hampshire. The birds of prey displays there are second to none. Three displays a day in various locations with many different species from vultures, eagles, falcons, kites & owls.
White-headed vulture over Reg's meadow, Hawk conservancy trust.
Saxon the Golden eagle
I also made a visit to the wetlands centre at Slimbridge for the 'high tide weekend'. The big tides on the River Severn tend to push the birds closer to the reserve and the wildlife hides so in theory you get a better view. It was a grey overcast day which didn't make for many good photos opportunities.
The grey heron was posing well at Slimbridge despite dire conditions for photography!
Dunnock or hedge sparrow. Such an underrated garden bird. RSPB Leighton Moss, Lancashire
If anybody is interested in learning how to take great photographs I've started my 1-2-1 photography tuition again. I find it very rewarding teaching people of all abilities new photography skills. Not only from setting the camera up but to also editing the final image. You can use my CONTACT page for details and availability.
Also many of my images are available to purchase in my ONLINE SHOP in various formats such as prints, canvases, clothing, phone cases and even face masks!
Thank you all for reading my latest blog and thank you all for your support and kind comments. I find nature is a great healer in difficult times. Even just sitting out in the garden or going for a short local walk. Nature is all around us.
Please continue to upload your photographs to my Photo's Page. There are some great photographs being posted.
Many more of my images can be viewed on my flickr page and Instagram.
Thanks
Steve