Each week we focus on a different member of the Telegraph & Argus Camera Club. This week, it is the turn of JOHN TEBBET, of Pudsey
How did you get into photography?
I’ve taken photos all my life, since the days of Box Brownie cameras. I’ve enjoyed taking snapshots of family over many years, particularly on holiday.
But last year I bought a “serious” camera and really got into nature and wildlife photography, and exploring local sites in Yorkshire – mostly local reserves, to capture birds and butterflies in particular. I also enjoy landscape photography, but need to develop my skills, and buy a decent tripod!
Who or what inspires you most?
I’m inspired by nature and the wonderful world we can all enjoy, often on our doorstep.
Great images by world-class photographers like Joel Sartore are also inspirational and really awe inspiring. The exotic locations he visits are incredible, and I hope maybe one day I’ll get there too. But they are not necessary to get magical shots of nature – they are all around us if we really look!
What’s your favourite kit at the moment?
My favourite kit is my Olympus OMD EMImk2. It is a mirrorless camera that is light as well as powerful, and is ideal for nature photography. I use it with a Panasonic 100-300 telephoto lens, which gives a powerful 600mm full frame equivalent reach, but is very portable.
Because I do a lot of hiking, lightweight kit is essential. I also use my iPhone, as it can take excellent shots, especially of landscapes and at night.
What would be your advice for any new photographers?
Have fun! Don’t compare yourself with anyone but yourself, and how you progress over time.
Try to take pictures of what you really like. In order to learn the technical side, go on YouTube or join an online camera course like A Year With My Camera – it’s superb and it’s free. Take your camera everywhere you can and wear it ready to take the next great shot – you never know what’s around the corner!
Tell us about your favourite shots.
The seal shot taken in October is one of a group of seals sunbathing at the very end of Filey Brigg.
Good nature shots require sharp focusing to capture detail, like in the dragonfly shot, taken at the Rodley Nature Reserve and the Green Veined white butterfly, taken at an RSPB reserve near Doncaster. The toadstool, the Fly Ageric, taken on Otley Chevin, was shot at ground level. The Ring necked Parakeet lives with lots of his friends in Apperley Bridge, on the Canal, and, although much maligned as an invader, has a special beauty. I also love to get a decent background, like my shot of the Jay at the Adel Nature Reserve in Leeds.
Join the Telegraph & Argus Camera Club
How to get in touch with John:
E-mail: jt07@btinternet.com
Instagram: @johnfrompudsey
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