West Cork Photography Breaks - Young success

For many children, these past couple of weeks have been the school half-term holidays, with many kids either complaining of boredom or spending their whole time glued to assorted gaming or video screens. It was during a half-term last week, that I ran a special and early West Cork Photography Breaks workshop. No boredom encountered here and indeed, one student had reason to be extra happy. Why would that be? After only four days of beginning to learn the art of photography, this young lad became a published photographer!

At just 7 and three-quarters years old (yes, that three-quarters is important at his age although his birthday isn't far off) Sam was my youngest and most inexperienced photographer to come along and take in the new (to him) sights of West Cork. Indeed, so new was it, it was his first time to travel on a ferry, his first time to Ireland, his first time being able to visit beaches AND his first time to pick up a camera. To date, he had snapped a few selfies on his tablet he used to play games on but to start to understand what makes a picture began the day he arrived at WCPB HQ.

Without too much thought, he was snapping away on his tablet, taking pictures of those around him, until a passing suggestion was made.
"Do you focus on the eyes?"
He happened to be left to his own devices for a while and when I returned I was greeted with,
"Look! I have taken a picture of Bullseye* I set him up on the table and focused on his eyes"
(*Bullseye is his 15" tall soft toy of the horse from Toy Story, which currently travels everywhere with him)
Wow! this kid was quick and I had just the perfect camera I could offer him to use in his little hands, in the form of an Olympus E-M10 + 14-42mm pancake lens. He didn't take too much persuading, and with the camera set to auto, as it was his first experience, we set off to the beach in search of new things.

He soon learnt how to hold the camera and how to focus, and he snapped away on each new thing he saw - barnacles, limpets, seaweed...and we all encounter things for the first time at some point. At one end of the beach we came across a piece of driftwood, this flotsam covered in something I had myself, only encountered a few years before on a West Cork beach. Getting into the swing of things by now, I suggested Sam should get down to a lower viewpoint. With an air of confidence, he laid down and rattled off a couple of shots (whilst I snapped him at work!)

Returning back to the house, he was keen to look over my shoulder as I loaded the results of his snapping onto my laptop. I was impressed! Sam clearly had an eye for a picture and had captured a great shot of these strange creatures, which he identified himself by looking up and comparing pictures in a super book by Maya Plass - RSPB Handbook of the Seashore
We later used the same really comprehensive book to identify his other 'finds' too. (More of those in the next blog)

Gooseneck barnacles - Lepas anatifera (Yes, he learnt that living things also have Latin names too, even if he couldn't get his tongue around some of them!) These were what he had found, probably washed up a few days before as they were no longer alive, unlike the live examples I had found back in 2011.

As with all of my West Cork Photography Breaks workshops, I encourage the students to select a favourite image from the first two days, which, on the Monday morning, is prepared and sent to the local newspaper, The Southern Star. This is then considered for their 'Reader's Picture of the Week' slot, with the possible accolade of becoming published, and winning a canvas print too.
...Roll on to Thursday, publication day, and I dashed into the local shop to turn down the corner of the newspaper to reveal the picture on the back page.
'Fist pump'
My novice photographer had impressed the editor, and I was so delighted for him.
How many of his school friends could go back to school with such a great 'what I did in my holidays' story to tell!

West Cork Photography Breaks runs for 4 weekends in the spring** and again for four weekend in the autumn.

**Sadly due to unforseen circumstances, the spring series has had to be cancelled.
However, the autumn weekends are still going ahead as scheduled...with the autumn being peak season for whale watching (subject to weather conditions)

May Day Morris Dancing

This morning the alarm was set for before dawn, to ensure we arrived at Wandlebury, just outside Cambridge, in time to see the dawn Morris Dancing by the Devil's Dyke Morris Men on this May Day morning. The day when tradition has it to roll in the dewy grass, although today the dew was of the white crunch variety.

(This is the holding page to ensure a 1st May date on the blog post and whilst the rest of the edit is completed in between a full weekend of assignments. Do come back later for the full set of images)

Kjell Brattfors - Antonov An-2 - Sweden

(By clicking on the first image it is possible to view all images as a slideshow)

A few weeks ago, along with a group of aircraft buffs (I hope they won't mind me calling them that!) I took a mad day-trip to Sweden on what was a beautiful Spring day. My intention was to blog this visit as soon as I could upon my return but knowing I had a few matters going on at the same time, including the second week of my Open Studios event, it was going to be a bit of a tall order to complete it. Needless to say, the usual syndrome hit - if it isn't blogged straight away then it gets more and more difficult to get it done. New priorities usually take over and sadly, there have been posts such as this which have fallen by the wayside in this way in the past, not least my visits to Mildenhall and Lakenheath airbases which I made with the very same group. This time, I was determined not to let it pass by and here, a little later than planned, is my 'not such an aircraft buff' view of one aspect of our day. (My apologies to those who have been waiting for this post) The other part of the day may at some point, be afforded the same attention...
I hope!

What a welcome at Kattleberg Airfield. The beautiful weather...

...the inviting club house with a view to envy, quirky touches and..

...an amazing host - Kjell Brattfors (pronounced Shell)

I may not understand a whole lot about aeroplanes, even though I married into a family where the aircraft industry was an important part of life but what I did understand was that Kjell has a passion. A passion for his own aircraft - an Antonov An-2, and a passion for his own little Kattleberg Airfield, nestled in a spectacular swathe cut through an otherwise wooded area about 30 miles outside Gothenberg. This beautifully kept tarmac airstrip was not only home to Kjell, his house being at the eastern end with a view down the runway but it was also home to his colourful beast of a machine LY-ABK, a Russian-built An-2. The look of this single-engine bi plane was deceptive as it appeared more vintage than its actual years. Having had a production-run of 18,000+ over 45 years, some of the later produced aircraft, including this one, were not as old as could be expected.

Tucked away inside a large open-fronted hangar, Kjell proudly showed us his shiny yellow, red and blue An-2 and we couldn't fail to be impressed. Answering the raft of questions that everyone had, he was happy to point out the shiny silver exhaust pipe sweeping back and down from the right hand side. To me, this looked nothing unexpected but the others knew it was non standard. This was a modification that Kjell had made, and so successful it was in preventing the fuselage becoming spattered in engine oil as well as, more importantly, increasing the efficiency of the engine, he had put it into small batch production. Here was someone who clearly knew what he was doing.

As conversation became incomprehensibly technical, I happily went about acquainting myself with this impressive machine. Although appreciating the skill of those who have learnt to fly I just have to admit that everything but the sat-nav in the cockpit is double-dutch to me. As for the knobs and dials, well I had no chance of understanding, but then neither would anyone else who wasn't up to speed with Russian.

However, what I could appreciate were the beautiful shapes and forms, curves and rivet patterns. I happily absorbed the beauty of this beast, enjoying the odd smile of amusement along the way. The others were also being taken by this beast, judging by the strokes of admiration that were being sneaked.

If it wasn't enough to have one of these Russian work-horses-of-a-plane, Kjell had a second one tucked away at the far end of the runway, with this one certainly not hiding its Russian heritage. From what I understand, this second An-2 was to be used for parts, although in some ways it would be a shame to do anything to it as the fading sign writing and the original interior had a charm and character all of its own.

As we all ambled back along the runway, carrying out an impromptu FOD patrol and enjoying the clear Swedish Spring skies, I thought about what I had gleaned (as a non-buff) from my visit. I admire the passion and drive which people such as Kjell possess. I am always amazed by the mine of information that this group of friends have on board. I have learnt a little about Antonov An-2s. I enjoy new and different opportunities and experiences such as these. I like Sweden, even after such a small taster. I would be quite happy to return to and stay in Kattleberg to appreciate the tranquillity of the place (and perhaps have a chance to enjoy the sauna I spied tucked away in the corner of the club house!)

I think that is reason enough to feel that mad days out such as these are exciting and worthwhile, and hope that my blog, an observational view rather than a technical spec piece does justice to it all.
I must thank all those who organised everything both at the UK end and in Sweden and also the one who cared to invite both myself and himself along. Most of all here, I would like to thank Kjell.

Bluebell Time

When my old mum moved to live in the same town as us six years ago, I made a promise that each year when the bluebells were in bloom in a local wood, I would take her to see them. Today was that day for the annual visit, some three weeks earlier than the visit last year but then how different the Springs have been. Mind you, isn't that the joy of nature, the quirks and variations that give us all something to note in our mind's diary or give us something to talk about.

However, the show of bluebells, whenever they happen, is always something to talk about, and as for the scent of these Spring wonders - you just have to be there to take it in.

Stunning!

Late May

Greater Stitchwort Stellaria holostea

We have all been aware of the completely barmy weather, wildlife and nature problems of late, and we are all fed up with guessing when Spring might turn up. Well, this morning I made the most of a beautiful morning, taking mutt for a walk in my favourite woods. Clearly we brought the good weather back with us from West Cork, and I'm not complaining!

I happily listened to the songs of the Chiff-chaff and Blackcap, punctuated by the 'keee' of the Buzzard up above, whilst down below, I marvelled in the creamy waist-high lace of the Cow Parsley surrounding me like a skirt as I walked through the deer paths. The Bluebells, although now fading, still gave a blue haze through this vegetative lace, lit by the dappled sunlight through the fresh green leaves.

The beauty of this English woodland walk compared with the beauty of a West Cork coastal walk, although different in feel, are both equal in my mind and I enjoy them in their turn. However, today I noted clear signs of this seasonal madness we have been enduring.

The fields of rape have germinated poorly, and where left to grow rather than being ploughed in as a bad crop, have flowered a whole month later than the last few years.

The Hawthorn Crategus monogyna is in most parts, struggling to live up to it's name as 'May blossom'. Buds are still tight and are notable by their absence in general.

Even the ever-hardy Common Nettle Urtica dioica appears to drooping under the strain.
















However, there were still glimmers of delight when I looked a little closer.

The intense blue of the tiny flowers of the Germander Speedwell Veronica chamaedrys punctuated the green of the path verge.

The vivid pink heads of the slightly mis-named Red Campion Silene dioica popped above the swaying grass.

But the best secret, hidden away in the mixed vegetation of the meadow corner, were the darkly spotted leaves of a beauty yet to flower. The Common Spotted Orchid Dactylorhiza fuchsii.















I will certainly be back to catch these in flower, although who knows whether they will be on time, or late just as many flowers currently are. Still, that doesn't matter to me, as it means all the more reason to go back to my favourite woods, and I'm sure mutt won't mind either.

Do Not Disturb...

Spring is Sprung, the grass is riz.

I Wonder where the (lady)boidies is?

Shhhh! Better not disturb them!

Surprises and Wishes

On Tuesday I was basking in the comparatively balmy temperatures of 13+ degrees whilst out on my daily walk.
It was beautiful!
Finally, after a miserable Winter, Spring was with us at last...

...or was it? This morning we woke to a covering of snow and had to face almost blizzard-like conditions out on the walk. Although a change of weather had been forecast, it had still surprised us.

During this time of changeable weather, it is more important than ever to continue with feeding the garden birds, and as a result it becomes a source of pleasure to sit and watch the birds from our kitchen window. Our avian neighbours arrive with eager anticipation for the daily helping of meal worms which I put out on the wall. Next, they are all carefully gobbled up, unbelievably systematically, from left to right, dunnocks, wood pigeons and blackbirds all arriving for a share.

However, some seem to secure a larger share than others, and it has been noted that the female blackbirds, of which there appear to be two regulars, come in for their essential nutrition in preparation for the impending breeding season. So in need are they, that they do anything to chase off all other food contenders in their quest, over-sized wood pigeons included. They are feisty to the degree that even the male blackbirds have learnt to give them a wide berth, just as this one I caught today, always keeping half an eye to ensure they don't get surprised by the future mother of their brood.

Motherhood (existing or impending) is clearly powerful both in the natural world and in our own lives, and so with that, I would like to send my wishes to my mother and thank my own off-spring for their wishes too on this Mothering Sunday.

To mothers everywhere, all good wishes.

Mad March Hares

Hey, Listen-up all you sleepy-heads!

Spring is with us, and with Spring come the hares.
You know you have always wanted to see hares from close quarters, and even more so, you would love to photograph them, but don't think you have the skill or equipment to do so.
Well here is your chance.

On Sunday 17th March, there is a unique opportunity to visit Havergate Island in Suffolk, a haven for hares - and much, much more.

With exclusive access to the island, owned and managed by the RSPB, hares, birds, landscapes and nature in close-up will all be workshopped in this series of one day photographic events.

"Photography: Day of Discovery"  (Click for more details)

Places are filling up fast, and with only a few days to go before the first event, there is no time like now, to hop over to the link above.

If you can't manage that date, then tell someone else about it!
If you can't manage that date, then no worries. What about the April or May events?

Whatever, this is a unique opportunity to observe wildlife at close quarters, whilst four differently experienced tutors are on hand to guide you in aspects of photography.


Wake up to Spring!


Photography: Day of Discovery has been co-ordinated by Monika Koch in association with the Vodaphone 'World of Difference' programme

(Transport suitability and wildlife spotting subject to weather conditions)

Keeping an Eye on Things

Tomorrow will be the beginning of a new month. The month where traditionally the birds do their pairing up.
The month where there are fabulous opportunities to be had, out photographing the happenings in nature.
And do I want to be out there doing that? You bet!

However, there are happenings going on here at 'Ailec Towers' in the next month or two, and so you will have to forgive me if postings on my blog become a bit patchy. I will do my best to bring you anything fun, exciting and interesting of course but if you see nothing here, it's not because I don't want to share it with you, it is more a case of I just can't find a spare moment. All will become clear why in due course.

Just as this mother blackbird was keeping a beady eye on me today, for the next few weeks I will be keeping a motherly eye on some things too. Even so, I will have to pop up for air occasionally and I will certainly blog and give you all a wave whenever I can.
So, will you bear with me for a little while, please?
Thanks! I knew I could count on you and, as I know you are all so brill, I thought it was only polite to let you know about this temporary slow-up in advance.

Heady Lime-Time

Over the past couple of weeks I have been so busy, (just like this fella) that my blog has been devoid of regular posts. Forget the fast-paced Olympic torch relay or my relentless plugging (do apologise!) for a certain 'event' taking place at home this weekend and next, this is a catch-up of some of the simple things in life that are here to be enjoyed too.

One of the pleasures I'm looking forward to now that this 'event' (not going to mention the name) is under way, is getting out for my regular walks with mutt. Sure, I've been out with her but she has had her exercise cut short due to my activities and the locations have not been the most interesting for her. We both love those walks out in our beautiful surrounding countryside where I can enjoy the space, listen to the sounds and observe the progress of nature.

However, a little bit of very local nature has been unavoidable in that time. On my way to almost anywhere in town, I have to walk past a mass of Lime (Tilia) trees. Some may know these trees as Linden but whichever, the fact is the same for both. Late June / early July is flowering time.

The first indication of the arrival of the sticky flowers on the bracts that the lime trees produce, is the almost intoxicating aroma that wafts on the air. However, it is upon arrival under this heady canopy that it is most striking... it buzzes!
Why? The first image explains exactly why.
Bees.
Those that have managed to rid their wings of excess raindrops, have made that bee-line for this seasonal Apidae picnic, just as we have determinedly shaken off our brollies this summer in an attempt to enjoy a barbecue.
The flowers have all but gone over now but there are still some other little critters that are dependent on the lime tree for its life-source.

Red protrusions from the upper surface of the leaves, denote the presence of Eriophytes tiliae or the Lime nail gall mite. Chemicals are produced by these sap-sucking mites, which cause the galls to grow throughout the summer. By Autumn, the mature mite emerges, finding a suitable crack in the bark of the tree where it overwinters, before emerging again in the Spring for the cycle to start all over again.

There is a whole world sustained by this, and indeed, by almost every tree, which so often we walk by without even a thought.

So, take a look, smell and a listen next time you are beneath one of our precious trees- you never know what you might find.

An Impostor

Bloody-nosed Beetle (Timarcha tenebricos)

The Invertebrate Conservation Trust Buglife are once again in search of the Oil Beetle. As Buglife states,
"Oil beetles are incredible insects, but they are under threat. Four of Britain’s native oil beetles are thought to be extinct, and the remaining four species have suffered drastic declines due to the changes in the way our countryside is managed."
They are asking everyone to keep their eyes open during countryside walks, and to report any sightings to Buglife (via this link).
Needless to say I got a bit excited when I saw this splendid fella crawling through the new green undergrowth today. Not because it was the first beetle of the Spring but because it might just be one of the searched-for specials (Forget looking for Faberge eggs in London streets, this is much more exciting!)

On my return home, I quickly looked up my Billy Beetle, only to find he is a bloody-nosed beetle and an impostor! What a shame. Oh well at least the same can't be said of these other wonderful indicators of Spring. There is certainly no doubting the identities here.

Sweet Violet (Viola odorata)

Lesser Celandine (Ranunculus ficaria)

Hazel Catkins (Corylus)

Norway Spruce cones (Picea abies)