Carol's Nature Photography Blog

The pages on this site document my walks in the East of England and on vacation in other areas of the country. I always have my camera with me, and like to capture images of the wildlife and nature that I see.

As each page is added to the site it will be listed on this page making it easy for you to see the new additions. When I make repeat visits to a destination I will often add further information to an existing page, so you may see pages popup again. They are worth checking out even if you have read them before.

Apr 26, 2025

Mute Swans - should I be afraid of them? Learn more about them

mute-swan-with-reflection.jpg

Learn many surprising mute swan facts about their lives and discover how to take great photos with plenty of detail in those beautiful white feathers

Continue reading "Mute Swans - should I be afraid of them? Learn more about them"

Apr 26, 2025

RSPB Nene Washes Winter Sunrise: Wildlife, Owls & More (Guide)

nene-washes-sunrise.jpg

Discover the magic of RSPB Nene Washes in winter. See photos of Short-Eared Owls, Whooper Swans, deer & get visitor tips for this Cambridgeshire gem.

Continue reading "RSPB Nene Washes Winter Sunrise: Wildlife, Owls & More (Guide)"

Apr 21, 2025

Nature Walks in Cambridgeshire: Wildlife & Photo Hotspots

sunset.jpg

Planning a nature walk in Cambridgeshire? Explore detailed guides to Fens, Washes, Woods & Meadows. Find wildlife info + expert photo tips. Start exploring!

Continue reading "Nature Walks in Cambridgeshire: Wildlife & Photo Hotspots"

Apr 20, 2025

A Histogram in Photography - How to Read and Interpret It

Diagram explaining a photography histogram graph, showing Pixel Count on the Y-axis and Brightness Levels (Blacks, Shadows, Midtones, Highlights, Whites) on the X-axis, with Clipping Zones indicated at both ends

Learn the vital role of a histogram in photography to achieve correct exposure, so you can adjust for underexposed or overexposed shots with confidence

Continue reading "A Histogram in Photography - How to Read and Interpret It"

Apr 20, 2025

Butterfly photography - a beginner's guide to macro and closeups

small copper butterfly on leaf

Butterfly photography - find out what equipment you need and how to use it to take beautiful butterfly photos

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Apr 20, 2025

Spotting the Common Crane UK - Sightings at RSPB Nene Washes

common crane

common crane uk

Continue reading "Spotting the Common Crane UK - Sightings at RSPB Nene Washes"

Apr 19, 2025

Use Shutter Priority Mode to Capture Perfectly Timed Moments

young-swallow-asking-for-food

Learn about shutter priority mode and the exposure triangle for creative control of your wildlife photography.

Continue reading "Use Shutter Priority Mode to Capture Perfectly Timed Moments"

Apr 18, 2025

How to Start Wildlife Photography - A Guide to Your First Field Shoot

A group of House Sparrows gathered around a birdbath in a garden, perched on the rim with greenery in the background.

Wondering how to start wildlife photography? Learn how to plan your shoot, spot wildlife, and compose beautiful photos—without stress or overwhelm.

Continue reading "How to Start Wildlife Photography - A Guide to Your First Field Shoot"

Apr 18, 2025

Getting into Wildlife Photography: The Essentials You'll Need

may fly

Getting started with wildlife photography? Learn about the right gear, techniques, and tips to capture stunning shots of wildlife, even as a beginner.

Continue reading "Getting into Wildlife Photography: The Essentials You'll Need"

Apr 17, 2025

Ideas for Autumn Photography: Stunning Shots of Nature and Wildlife

autumnal wood

Experience the magic of autumn through a heartwarming story packed with ideas for autumn photography. Perfect for capturing fall’s stunning colors and wildlife

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Apr 13, 2025

How to Identify Wild Birds: A Beginner’s Guide to Birdwatching

Common buzzard

Learn how to identify wild birds by shape, sound, size and behaviour – even if you're brand new to birding! With photos, tips and examples from UK habitats

Continue reading "How to Identify Wild Birds: A Beginner’s Guide to Birdwatching"

Apr 13, 2025

Woodland Birds on a Spring Walk | UK Birdwatching Moments

chiff chaff

Discover woodland birds on a peaceful spring walk. Spot chiffchaffs, woodpeckers, nuthatches, goldcrests and more — no expert gear or ID skills needed.

Continue reading "Woodland Birds on a Spring Walk | UK Birdwatching Moments"

Apr 08, 2025

Common Chiffchaff: How to Recognise Its Song and Welcome Spring

A common chiffchaff perched in a tree, beak open in song. The bird faces slightly sideways, catching the spring morning light.

The common chiffchaff is one of spring’s first singers. Learn to recognise its call and what this small bird tells us about the season—and a changing world.

Continue reading "Common Chiffchaff: How to Recognise Its Song and Welcome Spring"

Mar 30, 2025

Will I see puffins at RSPB Bempton Cliffs nature reserve?

raspy bempton cliffs

Our trip to RSPB Bempton Cliffs to see the breeding puffins, gannets, razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes, fulmar and other seabirds

Continue reading "Will I see puffins at RSPB Bempton Cliffs nature reserve?"

Mar 30, 2025

Best Walks in Northamptonshire for Wildlife Lovers & Nature Explorers

river-nene-at-oundle.jpg

Explore the best walks in Northamptonshire—spot kingfishers, butterflies, and wildflowers in peaceful woodlands and river trails.

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Mar 29, 2025

Ducks in the UK - A Guide to Spotting and Enjoying Wild Ducks

A pair of mallard bottoms, peeking out of the water

Ducks in the UK are more varied than you might think. discover where to find them, how to tell them apart, and what to notice on your next walk near water.

Continue reading "Ducks in the UK - A Guide to Spotting and Enjoying Wild Ducks"

Mar 28, 2025

Great Crested Grebe | Courtship, Nesting & Chicks in Photos

grebe-close-up.jpg

Follow the great crested grebe through a full breeding season—courtship displays, floating nests, fuzzy chicks, and stunning wildlife photography.

Continue reading "Great Crested Grebe | Courtship, Nesting & Chicks in Photos"

Mar 22, 2025

Why Won't My Camera Focus? Simple Fixes for Sharp Photos

Why won’t my camera focus? If you're tired of blurry shots, explore these practical troubleshooting tips to resolve common focus issues & capture great photos

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Feb 02, 2025

A nature walk checklist will remind you what to look for

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Use a nature walk checklist to help you prepare for your next outing to make it a rewarding experience.

Continue reading "A nature walk checklist will remind you what to look for"

Jan 25, 2025

How to Change Camera Settings: Beginner Guide to Wildlife Photography

robin with blurred background

Learn how to adjust ISO, shutter speed, and aperture for stunning wildlife photography. Step-by-step guide with tips, examples, and pro advice!

Continue reading "How to Change Camera Settings: Beginner Guide to Wildlife Photography"

Jan 21, 2025

How To Edit A Wildlife Photo: Post Processing Techniques for Wildlife

robin before being cropped

An intro to learning how to edit a wildlife photo and techniques that will help your photos look their best while still appearing natural and authentic.

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Dec 27, 2024

Types of Bird Feather Patterns and Why They are Important

Photo of a female eider duck

Discover bird feather patterns, from types and colors to the role of plumage in camouflage, breeding, and flight. A guide for beginner birdwatchers.

Continue reading "Types of Bird Feather Patterns and Why They are Important"

Dec 22, 2024

Pitsford Water Nature Reserve, Northamptonshire

wigeon at pitsford

Pitsford Water Nature Reserve, part of Pitsford Reservoir is a wonderful spot for walking and birdwatching

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Nov 22, 2024

Bluebell Photography Tips: Wild English Bluebells in Brampton Wood

a carpet of bluebells

Learn the best tips for photographing wild English bluebells, from lighting and gear recommendations to creative composition and post-processing techniques

Continue reading "Bluebell Photography Tips: Wild English Bluebells in Brampton Wood"

Nov 17, 2024

Photos of dragonflies and damselfiles

banded-demoiselle

During the summer I turn to taking photos of dragonflies and damselfies as there are fewer birds around

Continue reading "Photos of dragonflies and damselfiles"

Photo of Carol

About the Author

Carol is a wildlife photographer and nature writer based in the East of England, with a passion for peaceful walks, patient observation, and capturing life’s quiet wonders.

Through her lens and words, she shares the stories of the natural world — from bluebells and butterflies to birds like the great crested grebe.

Read more about Carol

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