Earlier this year, one such opportunity arrived after my involvement in the Yorkshire Dales Photography Show, which led to a feature interview with Nick Smith from Outdoor Photography Magazine for Issue 323.

The interview encouraged me to reflect on how design, storytelling and decades of visual experience shape my approach to landscape photography today. Below, I’m sharing some of those thoughts for anyone interested in composition, creative process or the evolving journey behind my work.

The human element in landscape photography

A strong theme in my photography is the subtle presence of people within the natural world. I’m drawn to locations where human influence meets landscape such as a castle, a lighthouse or a quiet village framed by the environment.

One standout example is Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland, a location known from The Last Kingdom and a favourite among UK photographers. For me, it represents:

• dramatic coastal landscape
• deep historical roots
• the perfect blend of natural and human storytelling

The final image from that shoot was created during a brief window on a family holiday. Despite imperfect timing and patchy cloud cover, the atmosphere aligned beautifully with the “classic yet contemporary” look I aim for in my landscape work.

How design principles influence my landscape photography

I have spent 30 years in graphic design, a discipline that  influences every frame I capture

Key design-driven elements in my photography include:

• negative space for balance and impact
• clean lines and strong structure
• portrait-oriented landscapes ideal for editorial and print use
• intentional composition that works visually both online and in print

I often ask myself, “Would this landscape image work beautifully on a printed page?”

Understanding the traditional rules of photography (and knowing when to break them) gives images a clarity and confidence that resonates with both viewers and art buyers.

From busy schedules to creative renewal

Like many photographers, I once found myself short on time due to business commitments and family life. But around 20 years ago, I picked up a digital camera as a hobby, after a year year hiatus, and quickly remembered how much I’d missed the craft.

Within six months I had upgraded to a DSLR, then a couple of year later, I had started to take on commercial assignments, and reignited a creative passion that had been dormant for years. This return to photography set me on a new path, one that now includes:

• expanding my landscape portfolio
• gaining my Associateship qualification with the BIPP exploring more naturalistic and classic landscape styles
• continually refining my technical and creative approach

Having three images make the final of the International Print Masters competition was both unexpected and deeply motivating, reflecting the direction my work is naturally taking.

Behind the interview with Outdoor Photography Magazine

My feature with Nick Smith of Outdoor Photography Magazine wasn’t just a conversation about kit or technique. It became a deep dive into:

• my early years in darkrooms
• the influence of graphic design on composition
• the transition to digital photography
• the importance of quality imagery in print
• why classic composition still matters

The surprising part?

The whole thing was sparked simply by taking part in the Yorkshire Dales Photography Show — a reminder that creative opportunities often come from showing up, engaging with the community, and sharing your work in real spaces.

You can buy the issue here.

Continuing to learn and explore as a landscape photographer

I’ve never claimed to be the most naturally talented photographer. But I’m determined, curious and always learning — traits that have served me throughout both my design and photography careers.

As I continue developing my photographic portfolio and navigating the next stage of my creative journey, it is all about refining my approach. Two aspects being learning from every shoot, good or bad. And not chasing the light. You can have really successful shoots outside of golden hour!

If you came across my feature in Outdoor Photography Magazine, thank you for reading. Those connections make the journey even more rewarding.

What’s next?

I have certainly become ncreasingly focused on creating work that feels authentic, thoughtful and grounded in a sense of place. The landscapes I’m drawn to, whether the rugged coastline of Northumberland or the quiet valleys of the Lakes, all have a rhythm and character that reward patience.

Slowing down, embracing the conditions and listening to what a scene offers has become as important to me as pressing the shutter. That mindset is shaping the direction of my current projects and the images I hope to share in the coming months.