One of the joys of writing these quarterly photo retrospectives is the opportunity to revisit the images I’ve captured and reflect on the moments they preserve. Not every photo is destined for my portfolio, but each one holds a personal connection that makes it worth sharing. Without these seasonal reflections, many images might only appear briefly on social media or remain unseen altogether.
This post marks the sixth installment of my “New Photos” series, highlighting some of my work from spring 2025. My spring adventures included short trips to the Welsh mountains and the Cornish coast, alongside extensive time spent photographing woodland landscapes. My aim this season was to deepen my understanding of woodland photography—learning to create compelling compositions from the natural shapes and patterns within the forest canopy, rather than relying solely on tree portraits or atmospheric conditions like fog.
Early Spring in Snowdonia
I began the season with an early spring visit to Eryri, better known as Snowdonia. Due to scheduling constraints, my exploration fell within that transitional period when winter has receded but spring colors are still sparse. Despite this in-between season, the experience was rewarding. I spent time hiking the hills, exploring the terrain, and photographing the majestic landscape. While I’ve selected only a few images to share here, the visit offered countless moments of inspiration and reflection.
Woodland Photography in Spring
Beyond traditional woodland shots, this spring I focused on the intricate forms and textures found within and around the trees, particularly within the canopy. The forests I frequent feature a mix of ancient, gnarled trees and tall Scots pines, providing a variety of subjects and compositional opportunities. The challenge, as always, lies in locating these ideal subjects, but the reward is a deeper engagement with the forest’s subtleties. This season, I concentrated on capturing both the character of individual trees and the broader interplay of light and shadow, revealing layers of texture and pattern that often go unnoticed.
Cornwall’s Coastal Scenes
In April, I spent a brief family getaway on Cornwall’s south coast, visiting the small village of Polperro. Being early in the season and experiencing less-than-ideal weather, the normally busy village was peaceful and largely empty. My photographic focus during this trip was limited, but I managed to capture a few scenes along the coast. These images reflect quiet moments by the sea, highlighting the muted colors and textures that characterize early spring along Cornwall’s shores.
Expanding Landscape Work
Aside from Snowdonia, I dedicated limited time to traditional landscapes this spring, dividing my attention between London for my ongoing “Timeless City” project and local woodlands. Nevertheless, I did manage a few notable shots. In Sussex, an early morning drone flight captured a striking cloud inversion, revealing the subtle beauty of the region from above. Closer to home, I spent mornings exploring open heathlands near the woodland, documenting the evolving light and textures of the local environment.
Some landscapes I photograph regularly have become personal seasonal projects. A particular spot adjacent to my woodland has become a habitual morning stop. Arriving before sunrise, I often pause for a cup of coffee while watching the sun gradually illuminate the scene. Over time, this simple routine has allowed me to witness the changing light, weather, and seasonal transitions, creating a layered narrative through repeated observation. These repeated captures offer not only aesthetic satisfaction but also a meditative connection to place.
Reflections on the Season
Spring 2025 was defined by exploration and introspection, both through travel and local surroundings. From the stark, quiet beauty of Snowdonia to the textured canopies of familiar woods, and the tranquil coastal vistas of Cornwall, each photograph represents a moment of engagement and discovery. By focusing on observation, composition, and subtle details, I aimed to push my own creative boundaries and find new perspectives within familiar settings.
These seasonal retrospectives remind me of the value in slowing down, looking closely, and capturing the ordinary in ways that feel personal and meaningful. While not every image will make it into a portfolio, each one contributes to a broader narrative of the season, reflecting not just the landscapes themselves but the experience of observing them.
