
When it comes to flowers, purple and yellow were made to go together – and this Pasque Flower taken at Ryton Gardens has them both.

At last, there is some daylight out there – time to get the camera out and see what is growing in the garden.
Leaves are just as interesting as flowers, if not more so.

A dandelion with a twist in the tale (or stem).

If you like a subject, don’t be afraid to keep taking pictures of it – each time you will refine it – it will either be better compositionally, or technically – maybe even both.

Most of the picture ticks the boxes for composition and sharpness, there is just one little problem…..

A limited range of colours can make a photo feel quite subdued, but, that is something that a photo sometimes needs.

Trying to take pictures of things that you see every day is something I enjoy, but something of a challenge. Today I decided to look for shape and texture in the garden where I would normally be looking for colour (and insects!)

If you take a shot that can, with hindsight, be improved, don’t be afraid to go back. If your photography skills are improving then so will the photograph.

A simple, but effective shot, made by the strong light.

Taking a decent photo of a snowdrop is becoming a bit of a mission. Poor winter light coupled with a small, white, low growing subject seems to be beyond my capabilities – how do others do it? I think they must cheat!

Spring buds can make surprisingly interesting pictures, but getting the shot in low light levels can be hit and miss.
A well known concept, but try to take a different view of a favourite subject.

I took this shot when visiting my mother. I had not expected to take any photos as she is not a gardener, but it had been raining, the sun had come out and the bees were buzzing on some nearby campanula. I had initially intended to take some more bee shots, but this geranium caught [...]

Another shot from Ryton, this time it is of a single subject.

I took this shot at Ryton Organic Gardens. What caught my eye was the clash of the sulphurous yellow of the Eurphorbia and the pink of the Red Campion. The sun was quite bright which accentuated the colours, but also allowed me to use my macro lens without a tripod at ISO100. However, I still [...]

Seek and ye shall find is never more true then when it comes to looking for something to photograph. I went for a lunchtime walk in order to blow the cobwebs away and get away from the office, not particularly looking to photograph anything. However, I have developed a habit of staring at hedgerows and [...]