November 2024

While I am a fan of birds of prey, one woodland bird is definitely in my Top 10, and maybe higher still in my favourite subjects to photograph, and that is the crested tit.

I first saw one of these in the summer of 2010, at Loch Garten, but it is a Schedule One species, and we were understandably limited to the views of one nesting near a public footpath that day.

Since then, I have enjoyed workshops with them (ones I have paid for, and ones I am now running myself for other photographers), and the charm of these little birds never wanes.

My clients have enjoyed some fantastic workshops with them so far this winter, and left with many images and big smiles. They too, have fallen in love with these birds.

So when we had a good dumping of snow recently, I braved the elements to reach the site. Thankfully I had just had my all-season tyres fitted to my "new" car, and it was my first test of how good it might be in such conditions. Happy to report, it's as good as the Yetis I had before. I have a SEAT Ateca now, so still got the same four-wheel drive system as before, just in a larger car.

The snow, where it had drifted, was way over my knees, and the woodland looked utterly magical. I've not seen so much snow there before, so was keen to make the most of it, and I had an image in mind too.

After seeing snow buntings in the snow some years ago, and leaving with some gorgeous "high-key" shots of them, I wanted the same with the cresties.

Using the same techniques I would for my clients, I set up the shot, and hoped. They such accommodating birds, and were soon perching in the right place for me to get the images I wanted.

Simply put, you over-expose the image somewhat, so any detail on the brighter surrounding areas is lost, and you're left with just the subject in a white mush, somewhat like a pencil drawing on white paper, as someone on my social media feed suggested.

I took lots of images, but this one is possibly my favourite, and takes the monthly spot.

If you fancy a workshop for these birds, please email me.

Unlike cheaper sessions where you're left to do your own thing, I am with you throughout the day. I do the legwork of setting up the shot, watching and alerting you when the birds are approaching, and suggest images to make the best use of the light. Crested tits are quick, and it's tricky to get what you want when you're having to do all the work alone. By accompanying you on the workshop, I strive to ensure you have a productive session, and it's enjoyable too.