Dawn Photography Series by Stephen Paul Young

Dawn photography is a captivating art form, focused on photographing the serene beauty of the early morning hours. As the sun rises and casts its first rays, the world is bathed in soft, natural light, creating the perfect conditions for stunning sunrise photography. (Gallery) Why Dawn Photography is Perfect for Capturing Beauty The early hours of the day, just before and after sunrise, are a dream for photographers. Known as the golden hour, this time offers natural light that is soft, warm, and evenly diffused. The dynamic color palette—from subtle purples and pinks to fiery oranges and yellows—provides endless creative opportunities. The Unique Appeal of MorningRead More →

Dawn Landscape Photography

This morning, I ventured out on one of my favorite photography walks in the UK countryside—the stunning route from Watership Down to Ladle Hill. Known for its rolling hills and historic landscapes, this area in Hampshire is a dream for anyone interested in dawn landscape photography. With temperatures dipping to -3°C and a crystal-clear sky, the conditions were perfect for capturing frosty morning photography during the magical moments just before and after sunrise. How to Get There The Watership Down to Ladle Hill walk is located in Hampshire and is accessible via several entry points. For this morning’s shoot, I started at White Hill, aRead More →

Icelandic sunset that inspires my 100 blog posts in 2024

As 2024 comes to a close, I can’t help but reflect on the journey I’ve had in the world of photography. It’s been an exciting year filled with creativity, learning, and, of course, plenty of photos! In this blog post, 100 blog posts in 2024, I’m going to take you on a quick tour of my photography blogs, highlighting some of the most exciting categories I’ve written about. My 100 Blog Posts in 2024 Let’s dive into everything from winter landscapes to 35mm film and even a few quirky posts about planes, trains, and automobiles. 2025, here we come! Winter Landscapes: Capturing the Chill andRead More →

Early Morning Photography on the Kennet and Avon Canal at Aldermaston Wharf

An early morning photography walk in winter offers a unique atmosphere for photography, and the Kennet and Avon Canal at Aldermaston Wharf provided the perfect setting. Armed with my newly acquired Canon EOS R5 and the reliable 24-70mm L-series EF lens, I ventured out to capture the quiet beauty of the winter season. Pre-Dawn Stillness Early Morning photography is all about embracing the soft, muted tones of the pre-dawn hours. The cold air, though not frosty, added a subtle crispness to the scene. The canal reflected the silhouettes of bare trees against a deep navy sky, creating a tranquil and moody setting. One of theRead More →

Positive Affirmation Photography: The Release of Towpath Reflections

I am thrilled to announce the release of my latest coffee table book, Towpath Reflections: Positive Affirmations and Photographs from Aldermaston Wharf. This positive affirmation photography book holds a special place in my heart, as it represents not only four years of photographic work but also a personal journey of reflection, peace, and positivity. The towpaths around Aldermaston Wharf, England, have long been a favourite retreat of mine, a place where I can slow down and take in the serene beauty that so often gets overlooked in our fast-paced lives. The Creation of Towpath Reflections Over the course of four years, I walked the towpaths near AldermastonRead More →

Coffee Table Photo Book - Echoes of Calleva

Every photography project I embark on feels like an exploration, but Echoes of Calleva – Landscapes Beyond the Stones was something truly special. This coffee table photo book represents over a year of walking, wandering, and losing myself in the landscapes surrounding the ancient Roman town of Calleva Atrebatum, which lies near Silchester. There’s something about this place that captivates me every time I visit. It’s not just the visible ruins or the ancient Roman walls that still stand despite centuries of wear—it’s the land itself, the rolling hills, and the quiet stillness that feels heavy with the weight of history. The Accidental Beginnings The projectRead More →

Introducing My Second Book: Paths of Watership Down

Photo Book I’m thrilled to share the news that my second photo book, Paths of Watership Down: A Photographic Exploration, is now available! This project holds a special place in my heart, and I wanted to take some time to talk about what inspired it, how it came together, and what this journey has meant to me. A Love Letter to the Landscape For years, the rolling hills surrounding Watership Down—White Hill, Ladle Hill, and the winding valleys in between—have been a source of inspiration for me. I’ve spent countless hours walking through this landscape, watching how the light changes, how the scenery shifts with theRead More →

Watership Down Mid Summer Sunrise

Embarking on a personal photography project inspired by Richard Adams’ timeless 1972 Watership Down masterpiece, is a venture both thrilling, profound and deeply personal. While I pondered ideas for photography project, the allure of this literary landscape has beckoned me to undertake a year-long journey, a visual exploration of the landmarks woven into the fabric of Adams’ narrative. This project is not merely about capturing images; it is an immersive journey through the essence of the book across the four enchanting seasons. Watership Down, a tale of resilience and camaraderie, has left an indelible mark on me since childhood. In this blog post series, IRead More →

Kentmere Film to record a winters day along the Kennet and Avon Canal.

In the delicate dance between vintage film and modern technology, my recent photography session along the tranquil Kennet and Avon Canal near Aldermaston Wharf was a captivating exploration. As a dedicated photographer specialising in capturing life’s fleeting moments, this session marked a significant milestone – the premiere use of the Kentmere Film Pan 400 Film, 120 Medium Format Film. Unveiling Kentmere Film Pan 400 As I embarked on my photographic journey, armed with the Pan 400, I wondered at its ability I’d seen in other photographers images to capture the subtleties of light and shadow. The film’s grain structure ensured that every detail was renderedRead More →

Watership Down: 5 Black and White Film Images to Calm You

As a photographer, there are moments that transcend the ordinary and beckon you to capture the essence of a place in its raw and unfiltered state. Watership Down near Kingsclere, a location made famous by Richard Adams’ novel, is one such place. In the quiet embrace of February, armed with my trusty Bronica ETRSi and a roll of Ilford PAN F+ film, I set out to explore this iconic landscape through the lens of black and white photography. Camera Gear + Black and White Film Choice Equipped with my Bronica ETRSi, a medium format camera renowned for its sharpness and versatility, I opted for theRead More →

Hamble-le-Rice

Hamble-le-Rice Introduction Embarking on a day trip to the coastal haven of Hamble-le-Rice, armed with my trusty old Canon AE-1 and a roll of Ilford HP5+ ISO 400 film, I set out to capture the timeless beauty of this charming village. Join me on this visual journey through the historic old town, narrow streets, and quirky surprises that awaited my lens. About Hamble le Rice Aspect Description Location Hamble-le-Rice, South Coast of England Maritime Heritage Renowned for its maritime history, with a significant association with shipbuilding and seafaring activities. River Situated on the River Hamble, which flows into Southampton Water. Architecture Known for charming andRead More →

Elevate Your Creativity: 13 Enchanting Photographs from Mottisfont Abbey

As a photographer, every session is an opportunity to weave a visual tapestry that tells a unique story. Today, let me take you on a captivating journey through my lens and photographs, as I ventured into the enchanting Mottisfont Abbey or Mottisfont House in Hampshire, England, on an early January day in 2024. Embracing Mottisfont Abbey Gardens Winter Palette The canvas for my artistry was set against the backdrop of Mottisfont house (Mottisfont Priory), a location steeped in history and natural beauty. Armed with my trusty Bronica ETRSi and the warmth of my creativity, I embarked on a photographic expedition. The film of choice? MyRead More →

Mastering The Best Settings for Low Light Photography

As the winter season approaches, I find myself drawn to the enchanting world of low light photography. Hi, I’m Steve, and I’m excited to share my insights on navigating the captivating challenges and embracing the wonderful opportunities that the best settings for low light photography conditions present for photographers. Winter brings a unique ambiance, with its early sunsets and cozy indoor festivities. It’s during this time, especially around Christmas, that the allure of capturing moments in subtle lighting becomes irresistible. In this article, I aim to provide a personal perspective on the art of low light photography, offering a guide tailored not just for enthusiastsRead More →

low light photography settings

As I sit here in my cosy home in rural North Hampshire, gazing out of the window, I’m reminded that winter is upon us in the United Kingdom. The days are growing shorter, and the familiar scenes of Autumn are slowly fading into the embrace of this enchanting season. The countryside transforms into a winter wonderland, and it’s a magical time for photography enthusiasts like me. I’ve had the privilege of experimenting with various photography techniques and settings, particularly delving into the realm of low light photography settings. Over time, I’ve learned the art of optimising these settings, a crucial skill for any photographer, especiallyRead More →

landscape photography

The Kennet and Avon Canal, Aldermaston Wharf, has always held a special place in my heart as one of England’s most picturesque landscapes, perfect for capturing its natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of the stunning countryside, this canal has become my haven as a photography enthusiast, offering breathtaking views throughout the year including canal boats, locks and wildlife. In this comprehensive guide, I invite you to join me on an exploration of the mesmerising natural beauty of the Kennet and Avon Canal at Aldermaston Wharf. Together, we’ll discover invaluable tips and secrets to help you capture truly exceptional photographs. As for the definition ofRead More →