Time for nature photography

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.

Photographic Opportunities

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.

Time of Day

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.

Time of Year

Every season brings its own treasures to photograph:

Spring: Bluebells carpeting the woodlands
Summer: Butterflies fluttering through wildflower meadows.

Autumn: Crisp woodland walks with leaves in every shade of red and gold
Winter: Frosted fields or snowy landscapes, perfect for capturing a sense of stillness.

No matter the time of year, there’s always something waiting to be discovered through your lens.

Weather Considerations

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!

Counties to Visit

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.

Cambridgeshire: Think vast open skies and peaceful riversides, perfect for spotting dragonflies or brightly coloured kingfishers.
East Yorkshire: From dramatic cliffs to farmland, the area is teeming with life, from puffins to hares.
Norfolk: Coastal beauty and expansive wetlands. This is a haven for birdwatchers with species like avocets, marsh harriers, along with beautiful Swallowtail butterflies and even seals!
Northamptonshire: A mix of ancient woodlands and rolling countryside—ideal for capturing deer, squirrels, or the dappled light filtering through the trees.
Rutland: England’s smallest county it may be, but it’s brimming with charm—Rutland Water is a hotspot for ospreys and other wildlife.

No matter which path we take, these regions offer endless opportunities to explore, connect with nature, and sharpen your photography skills.

Coastal Habitats

Coastal areas are home to unique plants and animals. Look for puffins and other seabirds at Bempton Cliffs.

Fenland

Fenlands are partly drained wetland areas. They support a variety of wildlife, including many birds.

Visit Nene Washes at sunrise.

Freshwater Habitats

Rivers and lakes are vital ecosystems.

Admire dragonflies, fish, amphibians and water birds like the great crested grebe.

Lowland Heaths

Lowland heaths are open areas filled with heather and gorse, home to the Dartford Warbler and many other species.

Woodlands

Wander through shaded woods, and maybe spot deer or the the elusive Purple Emperor butterfly.

Read about Monks Wood Nature Reserve.

Meadows

Stroll through flower-filled grasslands buzzing with butterflies and bees.

Ready to Explore?

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.

Join Me for a Virtual Nature Walk

Let’s learn, discover, and capture the beauty of the natural world together. Along the way, I’ll share:

Practical tips for photography in any weather
Camera settings and editing basics
Insights into storytelling and composition

Get ready to improve your photography skills and see the world from a fresh perspective. Let’s begin our adventure!

Get closer to UK nature - Subscribe to Wild Lens!

I would love to send you my occasional newsletter so we can keep in touch.