Weather, work and the common cold have all left me feeling like an ex-photographer this autumn; resulting in almost no photos. In fact the last time I went out with my camera I was struggling to find some of the functions on it!

With an upcoming landscape and wildlife photography trip to Norfolk looming it’s time I reacquainted myself with my cameras. When out shooting, camera controls should be second nature, so you’re mind is solely focused on the composition. With this in mind I currently have all my gear out, going through menus, manuals and making sure everything is up-to-date and connectable. I’ve just bought a new GoPro so that’s something else to learn, don’t expect any base jumping or parachuting videos though. I could attach it to my mountain bike, but I doubt nipping to the shop for a loaf of bread will look very exciting.

Although new images have been thin on the ground of late, I thought I’d share a few from recent outings.

Switherland Wood – Leicestershire

The woodland shot above was taken in Switherland Wood, Leicestershire. Only five minutes from Bradgate Park it’s somewhere I’ve overlooked for a long time. The trees were past their best but I still managed the odd decent shot. I also took some slow motion video of the leaves falling with the sun twinkling through the trees, very peaceful, will come in handy for something I’m sure.

St Mary’s – The Vale of Belvior

Another location I haven’t been for a number of years is St Mary’s church in the Vale of Belvoir. I actually shot these in my lunch break, so the light was a bit harsh, but with a black and white conversion it almost looks like moonlight.

The hard shadows actually helped the overhead images as it gives form to the church and adds depth to the image. It’s definitely a place I’d like to go back to when the conditions are better.

Anyway, back to those camera manuals, by the end of the day I’ll be able to draw and shoot quicker than Billy the Kid…