The beauty of nature and my belief in the value it brings to humanity is the principal driving force of my photographic journey. Seeing and feeling this beauty seeps into me; it inspires and motivates me. A photo captures something that’s very special – the expression on a face, that delicate mixture of light, colour, and texture. The blend of all these elements will probably never occur in quite the same way again, so I always feel privileged to witness these unique moments and capture them as images. Each photograph I take is a testament to the ephemeral beauty of the world around us, a snapshot of a moment that can never be replicated.
Monochrome is my preferred medium. There is a timelessness and purity to black and white photography that resonates deeply with me. The absence of colour strips the image down to its essential elements, allowing the viewer to focus on the interplay of light and shadow, the textures, and the forms. The first photo book I bought was Bill Brandt’s "Shadow of Light". I still look at it today, and although my influences have broadened, they remain in the black and white tradition and include Michael Kenna, Minor White, and Edward Weston, to name a few. These photographers have shown me the power of monochrome to convey emotion and tell a story in its most distilled form.
My photographic process is deeply intuitive. When I am out in nature, I let my senses guide me. I take in the sights, sounds, and smells of my surroundings, and I wait for that moment of connection, that instant when I feel a resonance with the scene before me. It is in these moments that I raise my camera and compose my shot, seeking to capture not just what I see, but what I feel. My goal is to create images that evoke the same emotions in others that I felt when I took the photograph.
Living in the north of England provides me with a wealth of natural beauty to explore. From the rugged moors and rolling hills to the serene woodlands and picturesque villages, there is no shortage of inspiration here. The changing seasons bring a constant variety to the landscapes, each with its own unique charm. Whether it is the vibrancy of autumn, the stark beauty of winter, the fresh vitality of spring, or the warm glow of summer, I find endless opportunities to capture the essence of this region.
One of the things I love most about photography is its ability to connect people. A photograph transcends language and culture; it speaks directly to the heart. When someone views one of my images and feels a sense of wonder, peace, or nostalgia, I feel a profound sense of fulfilment. My hope is that through my work, I can encourage others to take a closer look at the world around them, to appreciate the beauty in the everyday, and to feel a deeper connection to nature.
My photographic journey is a testament to the beauty of nature and the profound impact it has on our lives. It is a journey of discovery, of connection, and of creative expression. Through my lens, I strive to capture the essence of the world around us, to create images that tell a story and evoke emotion. I invite you to join me on this journey, to see the world through my eyes, and to find inspiration in the beauty that surrounds us.
I hope you like what you see. Every photograph I take is a labour of love, a reflection of my passion for nature and my desire to share its beauty with the world. Thank you for taking the time to explore my work. If my images resonate with you, if they bring a moment of joy or contemplation, then I have succeeded in my goal.