Welcome to Nature Walks with Carol, where every step off the beaten path becomes a chance to notice the extraordinary.
Here in the East of England, I invite you to join me on virtual countryside walks, where hedgerows hum with life, woodlands whisper their secrets, and open fields stretch to the horizon.
Together, we’ll explore the wildlife that thrives all around us, learning to see the world through both curious eyes and the lens of a camera.
You don’t need fancy gear or prior photography skills—just a willingness to slow down and truly look.
Whether you're wandering your own local trails or discovering new places, this is your space to be inspired, to connect with nature, and to capture its beauty one photo at a time.
So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and let’s head outside.
The countryside is waiting.
Let’s combine two simple joys: a peaceful nature walk and the art of capturing what we see.
You don’t need to be an expert to take beautiful wildlife and nature photos—I’ve got plenty of tips to help you get started.
The best light for photography often happens at the edges of the day—dawn and dusk. Known as the Golden Hour, these times bathe the landscape in soft, warm light that makes everything look magical.
But don’t dismiss low light conditions either; they can create moody and atmospheric shots that are just as striking.
Every season brings its own treasures to photograph:
No matter the time of year, there’s always something waiting to be discovered through your lens.
Before you head out, take a quick glance at the forecast.
Overcast skies? Perfect for even, shadow-free lighting.
Sunny days? They’ll give you striking contrasts and opportunities for playful shadows.
And don’t shy away from the rain—it’s amazing how puddles, raindrops, and mist can transform a scene into something truly dramatic.
Photography is all about learning to see the world differently, whatever the conditions. So grab your camera, step outside, and start experimenting. You might be surprised by what catches your eye!
Now that we know when to head out, let’s talk about where our walks could take us.
We’ll explore the beautiful Eastern Counties of England—Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Norfolk, East Yorkshire, and Rutland.
Each of these regions is home to a variety of habitats, each with its own unique charm and fascinating wildlife waiting to be discovered.
No matter which path we take, these regions offer endless opportunities to explore, connect with nature, and sharpen your photography skills.
Coastal areas are home to unique plants and animals. Look for puffins and other seabirds at Bempton Cliffs.
Fenlands are partly drained wetland areas. They support a variety of wildlife, including many birds.
Visit Nene Washes at sunrise.
Rivers and lakes are vital ecosystems.
Admire dragonflies, fish, amphibians and water birds like the great crested grebe.
Lowland heaths are open areas filled with heather and gorse, home to the Dartford Warbler and many other species.
Wander through shaded woods, and maybe spot deer or the the elusive Purple Emperor butterfly.
Read about Monks Wood Nature Reserve.
Stroll through flower-filled grasslands buzzing with butterflies and bees.
Take a moment to breathe in the sights and sounds. Every walk begins with an introduction to the nature reserve or habitat we’ll explore. I’ll share a personal story to give you a taste of what’s ahead.
Together, we’ll capture stunning photographs of wildlife, landscapes, and flowers.
Don’t worry if you’re new to birdwatching or photography—I’ll guide you every step of the way.
Let’s learn, discover, and capture the beauty of the natural world together. Along the way, I’ll share:
Get ready to improve your photography skills and see the world from a fresh perspective. Let’s begin our adventure!
I would love to send you my occasional newsletter so we can keep in touch.