ABOUT

Although a birder first, I've always been interested in photography. Both hobbies have ebbed and flowed over the years, but gradually I find that they're coming closer together. I started this website as my birding blog was becoming rather photo-heavy, and I wanted to maintain a clear distinction between the two.

I live in east London, and am a keen patch-worker, so many of my photos are taken close to home. That's not to say that the odd twitch doesn't occur, but it's very often difficult to get satisfactory images of rarities and my time is often better spent in less busy locations. I'm also increasingly travelling abroad to take bird images, the photographic opportunities overseas can be incredible. Morocco is a particular favourite, but anywhere that takes me into close proximity with birds is fine by me.

As can be seen in my galleries, Chats, and Wheatears in particular, are my favourite birds, although I'm happy taking photographs of just about anything! As long as the light is nice and the subject is close, I'm happy. The galleries represent what I think are the best images I have taken up to this point - it's a process of constant improvement and constant deletion! The challenge is always to do better. My photographs have appeared in various books, Birding World, Birdwatch, the national press and many local birding publications, as well as information panels for the RSPB and other nature reserves. If you wish to use an image, please get in touch.

I hope you enjoy the site!


KIT

Until 2024 my go-to bird photography kit was a series of Canon 1D professional bodies, culminating in the 1DX in 2018. Paired with a 500mm f4 Mk II lens and a Gizto 5561T monopod, for years and years I used this setup more than everything else combined; binoculars round my neck, converters in a pocket, and I'm all set. All of this fitted easily and comfortably in a small Thinktank Streetwalker Pro backpack.

I also used Canon's 800mm f5.6, particularly if I had set target in mind - this lens is not as large or as heavy as you might think, and also takes the 1.4x converter really well. Although I used this with just the monopod, I preferred to use a Gitzo tripod and a Wimberley gimbal head for additional stability.

In late 2024 I switched to a Sony mirrorless system to save weight, and now use a tiny Sony A6600 with a 200-600mm zoom. If I am honest it cannot match the Canon prime, but it is much cheaper, and most importantly, much ligjter. Technology has moved on significantly. I also travel with a small 16-70mm zoom lens, and plan on getting an additional body at some point soon in case one fails. My bag of choice now is a venerable Thinktank Airport International with all the dividers removed. I am not as precious as I once was and everything I need for a trip just gets chucked in with clothes providing the padding.