Selfridges Birmingham, Christmas, 2024.

The shop designers at Selfridges Birmingham are always ahead of the game when Christmas arrives. Yes I know Christmas is arriving earlier and earlier each year. These pictures were taken on 4th November when we went in for a shopping expedition. I love the ground floor of Selfridges and the attention to detail is wonderful to see. Seeing the Christmas decorations reminds me of when I was growing up in Manchester as a young boy, my parents took me into Kendals department store on Deansgate. I was so excited to see the store’s decorations and the feeling of expectation of what Father Christmas may bring me.

When we visited, the first port of call was the ground floor to see the various shops all set up for Christmas. I enjoy seeing the Lego sets (yes the boy in me is still there), looking at the Christmas cards and this time checking out the extensive Jellycats stand. I also visited the White company as I know that is the place Sandy likes. I was planning ahead for her birthday and Christmas in the next few months.

Selfridges Birmingham, Christmas, 2024.
Having a marmalade sandwich with Paddington.

We had brunch at the Medicine Bakery. Before Covid, I had a dental clinic at Boots every Monday. I used to spend an hour taking photographs before arriving at the Medicine Bakery for a coffee and a croissant. Then I hotfooted across town to Boots to start the day. Their pastries are wonderfully light and the filling is delicious. Just outside the café, Paddington was on a bench eating marmalade sandwiches. It would be rude not to have a picture of Siân and Mason with Paddington.

Selfridges Birmingham, Christmas, 2024.
The Bull at Selfridges.

The Selfridges Bull, not to be confused with the Bullring bull, was sporting some splendid Christmas decorations. The rest of the shopping centre was also getting into the spirit of Christmas and I am sure that I will be back again several times over the festive period.

Selfridges Birmingham, Christmas, 2024.
The Bull Ring shopping Centre is quiet on a Monday morning before the Christmas Shopping begins.

There will be many more blog posts before Christmas but if you wish to revisit Christmas 2023 then I have the following link for you to visit.

Jewellery Quarter, Halloween, Pumpkin extravaganza, October 2024

The Jewellery Quarter is a picturesque part of Birmingham.  In the centre of the neighbourhood are two cemeteries, Warstone Lane and Key Hill.  Both graveyards are the resting place to the great and the good of Birmingham. During the day they are a quiet tranquil place where the peace is occasionally interrupted by workers from the Jewellery Quarter taking their lunch break. At weekends, there are groups of people touring the cemeteries. At night, the place is an ideal setting for more ghostly happenings.

Jewellery Quarter, Halloween, Pumpkin extravaganza, October 2024
The candlelit path to the catacombs
Jewellery Quarter, Halloween, Pumpkin extravaganza, October 2024
The Warstone Lane catacombs with lights and pumpkins.
Jewellery Quarter, Halloween, Pumpkin extravaganza, October 2024
The pumpkins on display with the different carvings.

The JQ BID put together a Pumpkin Extravaganza which was centred around the catacombs at Warstone Lane Cemetery.  IgersbirminghamUK were invited to take photographs of the event. The evening included visiting the various stalls that had set out their Halloween displays. Activities included the opportunity to carve your own pumpkin.  The Friends of Warstone Lane and Key Hill cemeteries had put out a display of skulls and other interesting spooky objects.  The Coffin Works were demonstrating how to make badges using techniques normally used on coffins.  

Jewellery Quarter, Halloween, Pumpkin extravaganza, October 2024
A frightened pumpkin

There were tours of the catacombs and our guide, Josie, gave us a historical background to the area plus a few ghost stories as well.  The low light made photography difficult but there were still many opportunities for pictures from the lights of the Pumpkins which were arranged in front of the doors of the catacombs.  A spooky night was enjoyed by all as the pictures show.  Thank you JQ BID for your organisation of the event.

Jewellery Quarter, Halloween, Pumpkin extravaganza, October 2024
Josie, our guide, in the Catacombs.
Jewellery Quarter, Halloween, Pumpkin extravaganza, October 2024
Spooky atmosphere
Jewellery Quarter, Halloween, Pumpkin extravaganza, October 2024
Ghosts walking amongst us.

If you enjoyed this blog about the IgersbirminghamUK photographic meetings then follow the link below and look out for details of our meetings on the IgersbirminghamUK Instagram page.

Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024

IgersbirminghamUK were contacted by the National Trust to ask if we were interested in holding an Instameet at Coughton Court.  This approach is part of the National Trust’s summer campaign to bring people together to explore their properties and enjoy the outdoors.  This aligns with the IgersbirminghamUK group which aims to organise photographic Instameets with the aim of photographing and enjoying a day out at  different locations.

Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
Scaffolding around the historic Tudor building.

Coughton Court is a historic Tudor House and is undergoing an extensive program of repairs to the roof of the building.  The cost of these repairs is £3.3 million and the conservation project will finish in 2025.  During the building work, parts of the house remain open to the public.  

Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
Hard hats and high visibility vests. IgersbirminghamUK photographers ready to go “Through the roof”.

We gathered at the property early on a Sunday morning in August.  The often-photographed building looked so different with the scaffolding and plastic sheeting covering the brickwork.  Our National Trust host, Gum, gave a warm welcome and outlined the plans for the day.  After introductions and the obligatory picture, we split into two groups of 10.  One group visited the house whilst the other climbed the scaffolding to review the restoration project. Both groups then swapped over.   

Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
Beautiful views from the top.
Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
Looking out towards the Birmingham Road.
Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
Dropping a penny from the viewing platform.
Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
Details of the repairs on the Tower roof.

There are 88 steps up to the Visitor Viewing Platform.  We donned blue protective hats and hi-vis yellow jackets and then we made the journey to the top.  On the way up, we began to see the beautiful Warwickshire countryside.  There were many photographs to be taken of the unique views of the house and the surrounding estate.  The view of the restoration work on the roof of the tower showed the extensive renovations being done.  I have climbed the tower in previous years and this view was different to what has gone before.  I have photographs taken before the restoration, but to see the stonework close up was very exciting.  The drop penny shute was fun especially as James had a coin to drop into it.  Whilst the views made it tempting to linger around the top of the tower, there was another group waiting to go up and there was still the house to visit.

Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
A view of the ceiling in the entrance hall

The “Through the roof” project is highlighted throughout the house and we were shown around via the temporary entrance to the main hallway.  Everything looks different to what I am normally used to as the restoration of Coughton Court is extensive and involves several areas.  Some of the rooms are inaccessible and others have furniture stored away.  There is a feel of a family house undergoing decoration, as items are cleared away, although this is on a much grander scale than your average family house! There are informative displays throughout the large room that normally has a grand table set out for dinner.  One of the most impressive areas was the lounge.  The National Trust has taken the opportunity to lower the chandeliers to allow cleaning of these intricate beautiful creations.  There were a few more rooms to pass through and then it was out to the gardens.  The house visit was a new experience and as photographers we were getting a feast of opportunities for pictures.  

Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
New displays of the different rooms undergoing restoration.
Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
Storage room with ceiling decorations and other items carefully stored away.
Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
Lego men helping with the work.
Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
The chandeliers are at ground level allowing detailed inspection and cleaning.
Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
Crystals and family photographs.

The gardens were looking beautiful and the lime tree walks lead out to the large green space.  Looking back there are views of the building, although this time it is covered up for the restoration work.  As I made my way up to the river Arrow, I saw the stalls for Myton Hospice who have a summer display along the river.  Along the west riverbank, there are numerous butterflies planted along the waterside as memorials to loved ones.  These lead onto the footbridge and the riverwalk.  There is so much to explore at Coughton Court and each visit is a different experience.

Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
The rear view of the Tudor house under renovation.
Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
The butterfly display by Myton Hospice on the river banks.

There was still one more treat in store as we were given an early access to the walled garden. This was a wonderful opportunity to view the various ‘rooms’ of this extensive garden without too many people spoiling the picture.  There are several picturesque views and the flowers were in full bloom.  There were many bees out and about especially on the lavender borders.  I took many pictures in the garden and I noticed that many other photographers were doing the same thing.   I particularly liked the quirky growth on the Lysimachia flowers. They resembled ducks with their crooked growth.  After taking our fill of the gardens, we retired to the outside courtyard for a well-deserved coffee break.  There was a quick review of our pictures and the we said our goodbyes. 

Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
The water feature within the walled garden with St Peter’s church in the background.

The National Trust is highlighting the importance of take time out of our busy lives to reconnect with nature. This reminds us of how beautiful nature is and the joy and happiness that it can bring.  This IgersbirminghamUK Instameet was an opportunity to do just this and we wish to thank the National Trust for allowing us to visit Coughton Court. Thanks to Nicky Warwickshire of the IgersbirminghamUK team for organising the Instameet.

Coughton Court, National Trust, Warwickshire, August, 2024
Thanking Gum and her team for allowing us to spend time in Coughton Court. We loved our time and the opportunity to take photographs.

If you enjoyed this report on the IgersbirminghamUK meeting or wish to visit other National Trust properties I have put links to other blog entries below.

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Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024

With the long summer nights upon us, the IgersbirminghamUK team came up with the idea for a photowalk that started at St Paul’s Square and finished at St Philip’s Cathedral. Along the way we could photograph interesting views of Birmingham. The walk went down Ludgate Hill, over the Pedestrian Bridge towards Church Street finally arriving at St Philip’s Square affectionately known by locals as Pigeon Park.  The call went out a week before on social media and on the evening a group of photographers assembled outside St Paul’s Church.  A list of some interesting places and buildings had already been circulated on our social media channels. Many of these suggestions were taken up by our band of photographers. I usually have my iPhone and my Fujifilm x100vi on any city walk. I just find these two cameras so useful to tell the story of the streets as they are easy to carry and use. They also take good pictures.

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The walk started with lovely warm sunshine and St Paul’s Square looked good in the evening light.  As we moved down Ludgate Hill towards the Birmingham Canal, the sky clouded over but it did not stop us taking pictures of our favourite Brummie locations.   

Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Steps on the canal

The canal passes underneath the BT tower. There is graffiti and concrete posts yet the canal locks blend in well with the surroundings. Further along, the pedestrian bridge is always a favourite photography location. The light was dimming so it was possible to practice a few long exposures of the traffic passing underneath.  

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As we approached St Philip’s Square along Church Street, we could see the recently installed Big Wheel lit up against the late evening light.  Then came the rain. Just as we reached the square, the heavens opened and we got very wet.  Some of us were fortunate as we had brough a water proof coat or umbrella. Others were less lucky.  We first thought that this was going to be a miserable end to a good evening of photography.  After the initial heavy downpour, we saw that the rain had created reflections on the surrounding pavements. The Big Wheel was lit up in different colours, and the resulting images with the reflections gave a range of interesting effects.  Also people were walking past with umbrellas casting their shadows in the puddles. The picture opportunities were unending. After a while no one minded the rain or the fact that they were soaked through.

Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Part of the ramp from the bridge. Not the best part of Brum.

Those of us that were left behind after braving the rain finished our walk at the Wolf pub on Constitution hill. During our well deserved refreshments, the IgersbirminghamUK team planned our next adventure.

Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
The Wolf Pub

This are my own pictures from the @IgersbirminghamUK walk. If you want to see the pictures of all the other talented photographers that took part then follow the link #igbUK_meet_sq2park

The walk back from the Wolf pub to Snow Hill station was short but interesting and here is a set of five pictures showing how the light and reflections after the rain can create a wonderful range of colours.

Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Looking across the street at Old Snow Hill
Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Warm lights on Water Street
Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Under the arch
Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Lights and reflections on Lionel Street
Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Puddles at Snow Hill Station

If you have got down to here then there are other IgersbirminghamUK meetings to read about on my blog. Enjoy reading about our activities. The team at IgersbirminghamUK look forward to seeing you at one of their future meetings.

Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024

The appearances of poppies near to where I live is becoming unpredictable.  Typically, poppies flower around the beginning of June.  However, poppy fields are more difficult to find as farmers are changing their farming practices to be more competitive.  The once large poppy fields around Worcestershire are undergoing a slow transformation into Heathland under the supervision of the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust.  This makes finding the location of a flowering poppy field challenging, but with the help of friends and careful monitoring of social media, a few fields were reported near to Kinver Edge in South Staffordshire.  The next challenge was the weather and to find a time when there would be a good sunrise or sunset.  I prefer sunrises in the countryside especially for poppies.  The light is clearer and cool but the biggest advantage is the lack of other photographers and people.  If a field is popular then spectators and photographers will flock to the area.  Morning is preferable.

Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024
There was a mist over the fields before sunrise.
Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024
The beautiful colours of a poppy field
Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024
The white and red mix of wildflowers

Setting the alarm clock for 3am, I made the 45min drive to Kinver in South Staffordshire.  There was some delightful early morning mist and I quickly stopped in a nearby village for some pictures of the misty landscapes.  Arriving at the field, I met Simon Lea, an old friend, who takes some beautiful woodland and landscape pictures.  We quickly caught up on news and then looked to our photography as the sun was ready to make an appearance.  The field was south facing with a gentle slope towards where we were standing.  The land is near to Kinver Edge and so there is an undulating landscape. I had been advised to take my 400mm zoom lens and I am glad that I did.  The owner of the field had fenced the surrounding perimeter with barbed wire and did not wish any trespassers on their land.  

Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024
The view of the poppy field landscape

The field was nearing its peak and the poppies were set back and interspersed with a mix of white feverfew and purple vetch.  Just before sunrise, the light was cool and the poppies took on a dreamy feel in the mist.  I took several pictures at this time.  Once the sun had risen the light became intense.  

Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024
Poppies in the sunlight
Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024
The heat glare of the sun burns off the mist

Most of my pictures were taken with my Canon 5D MKIV with a circular polariser.  I also had my x100vi with me which I used for a sunrise picture and hoped for the best. The picture taken with the Fujifilm was good and is the front cover of the blog.  As the sun became brighter, I walked, with my tripod and camera, further up the road where there were several pictures still to be taken.  There was one of three poppies against the barbed fence that provided symbolism of previous wars.  The sun catching the petals of the many poppies provided some further pictures.  

Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024
Poppies behind a barbed wire fence.
Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024
An abundance of poppies

Then it was time to go.  The mist in the distance was still lingering and I found a place near to Kinver to take more landscape pictures.  My Waze satnav took me back over a sleepy backwater of the canals along Windsor Holloway.  Then it was back through Churchill onto the main roads and home for breakfast at 7.30am.  On such summer mornings, one is left with the feeling that you have experienced two days.  The first a magical sunrise and then a day where I return to my normal life.  

Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024
A view of the Staffordshire canal
Poppy field, Kinver, June, 2024
Mist over the Staffordshire countryside

I have included a link to last year’s field in Bewdley which sadly is not there this year.

Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.

Leamington Spa has streets of white tall elegant buildings. All are fine examples of Regency architecture. Away from the Regency style avenues, buildings in the old town have become canvases for stunning street art several courtesy of the Brink Leamington Mural festival. The train station is a good starting point for exploring the streets of Leamington being close to the old town and the Grand Union canal. On the corner of Crown Terrace and the High Street, a mural advertising the Brink contemporary arts community is displayed. The cartoon character, Gru supervillain turned secret agent, greets you as your first introduction to the artwork that follows. Street art is always fun to photograph but ensuring the artist is always credited can be a challenge. Therefore if I have missed anyone out, I apologise and refer you onto the Brink Contemporary Arts links including a map of the art work and their Instagram page.

Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Future Synth by Void One
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Royal Leamington Spa by MIG 29
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Phone Home

The street mural next to the rail arches on Clement street is an attention grabber and at the other end near the canal is the Leamington Spa mural. We identified the Micro Pug, a small pub next to the canal, as a good place to visit and started a circular walk back to the pub. Part of our route would take in the Lady of Shrubland Street. This mural reflects the Victorian architecture of nearby Shrubland Street Primary School and was created by Tim Robottam. I have used filters for the colours and a Flickr friend to pose for the picture. The old part of Leamington has streets with character and this mural enhances the look of the area . Near to the mural stands the Green Man pub where the Lenny Henry TV series “Three Little Birds” was filmed.

The circular route back to pub took in the murals around the disused factory area which may be approached via Eagle Recreational Park. The murals line up alongside the Grand Union Canal and the path leads to steps and a footbridge taking you over the canal. As you go up the steps a glance to left reveals the stunning art by the artist N4t4. The canal was busy and a narrowboat passing by the graffiti strewn factory was an added bonus. We headed back to the Micro Pug for a drink and to plan the later part of the day.

Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Canal Boat passing by.
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Figure and face.

We took a general walk through the Regency half of the town. Jephson gardens was looking good in the sun with people enjoying the fine weather. The usual “honey spot” pictures of Jephson Gardens, the Parade and Clarendon Square were taken before finally it was time to go home.

Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Enjoying the water fountains
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Mind your Head
https://damienwalmsley.com/leamington-street-art/
Bridge over the River Leam
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
The architecture of the Royal Priors
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Busy roads in Leamington Spa
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Phone boxes
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
The beauty of Clarendon Square

I have completed another chapter in my photographic blogs which feature Leamington Spa. My last blog picks up many of the other murals that are present in the town. Finally why the moniker Silicon Spa? The town has exploded in the digital world and is a hub for computer game developers and other computer software programs. The streets maybe lined with code but the artistic community is keeping up by painting the walls with colours.

Finally the “we” and “my Flickr Friend” is JohnBrum69 who kindly guided me around the streets of Leamington.

Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024

Woodland photography is one of my interests as there are several woods near to me that I love wandering around taking photographs with my camera.  The skills that are involved with taking such pictures, I have learnt by trial and error.  However, my technique is rather low key and much of what I do is point the camera and take pictures that look appealing.  The opportunity to learn woodland photography skills arose after a chance meeting at the Photography Show with Miffyohara.  Miffy is a classically trained photographer who has a great love of woodland photography.  We talked about a photography walk and the place Miffy chose to start my woodland photography journey was Hagley Park next to the Clent Hills.

Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
The outlines of these branches make a pleasing geometric shape.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
A window created by the tree branches.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
Two walkers passing through the woods.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
I included the path which is partially covered with blossom so as to lead to the light.

The park has 350 acres of Worcestershire countryside to explore with an abundance of woodland.  When I arrived, I realised that a tripod was essential.  Never go anywhere without your tripod. This was my first lesson of the day.  Fortunately the light was good and the sun was breaking through the clouds.  During our visit, the sun was diffused by cloud cover although occasionally there were long periods of sunshine. Therefore we waited for these patches of light to illuminate the woodland. Similar to wildlife photography, a calm, non-hurried approach is required.  This is so difficult for me as I do tend to rush around.  For the first 30 minutes, we observed and photographed one tree.  We slowly walked around the tree, looking at how the sun fell on the branches and leaves.  I learnt about “windows” created by tree branches that open your photographs in a similar way to framing.  This aspect of woodland photography is appealing to me as I enjoy taking a picture within a picture.   I found the opportunity to place people into the scene although I acknowledge this is not what woodland photography is about!   The bluebells were in full bloom and offered splashes of blue throughout the day.  Another learning point was the avoidance of man-made structures in the photograph and therefore paths which allow a leading line were not considered but I did occasionally break the rules.  Therefore I used the branches and arrangement of the trees to lead the eye.

Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
A tree of interest that tells a story.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
A view of Hagley castle framed by a tree.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
The imposing Hagley castle.

Hagley Park has a circular route that takes in several follies that were placed by previous owners to add a pleasing spectacle to the eye.  The structures follow classical architectural designs as may be seen in my photographs. The current ideas of the park keepers are to reduce the prominence of these follies and allow the woodland views to take centre stage.  The first folly we came across was Hagley castle which is designed to resemble a small ruined medieval castle.  The castle is an imposing structure over this part of the park and whilst it was fenced off, it was still possible to view the architecture.  Leaving the castle, the path dipped steeply down towards the stream that passed through the south of the park.  On our way there were several interesting trees worthy of photographing.  We climbed back up and then came upon Milton’s seat which gave beautiful views of Hagley Hall and the surrounding Worcestershire countryside.  This was a place where one could linger and let time pass you by.  The light was good and it was possible to view the hills in the distance.  

Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
A tree with personality.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
Fungi patterns on a dead tree.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
More patterns created by the fungi.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
Milton’s seat with a view that takes in Hagley Hall and the mountains in the distance.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
The woman in the red jacket had to be photographed.

Our next point of interest was the Palladian bridge which is very photogenic.  You are spoilt with the different compositions that arise from the bridge and the surrounding woodland. The bridge is at the head of the lake and set in a valley of trees.  There are reflections in the lake and the lay of the land offers both high and lower-level interpretations of the scene.  I settled for an eye level view taking in the reflection and the setting of the bridge along the lake.  Processing the picture in black and white provides balance and allows blending between the man-made structure and the woods.  The bridge is at the start of three lakes which lead upwards to the classically styled Rotunda.  On the way past the lakes, there is a memorial to the English poet William Shenstone in the form of an urn.  Again I was drawn into photographing the urn and the Rotunda amidst the woodland trees. There were also other interesting trees to take in and photograph.

Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
The Palladian Bridge in Black and White
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
The view over the lake.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
Shenstone’s Urn
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
A window onto the Rotunda.
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
The Rotunda blending into the surroundings.

On returning to the café, we discussed our photographs and then discussed how to process the pictures. Whilst proficient at Lightroom, I do need to revisit Photoshop and use the layers function to bring out features in my photographs.  Once again this is all part of the learning process.  

Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
Details from a fallen tree.

Woodland photography is a genre to visit.  I learnt how to look at woodland scenes, and carefully pick out areas of interest.  The need to slow down and take in your surroundings allows you to seek out new photographic scenes that you would miss if you just walked through the park.  By slowing down, you are also able to look at how the light falls on the woodland.  Looking for windows and diagonals in the branches of the trees helps your woodland photography stand out.  This walk was during the day and the woodland would naturally light up during the golden hours. I will look for future opportunities to pursue this genre of photography especially at the start and end of the day. 

Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
Tree textures
Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
Rushes

At the start, we talked to Alex one of the Park Rangers who gave us insight into the care of the park. Alex also agreed to be part of my 100 strangers project that is nearing completion. Here is a picture of Alex leaning against one of the Park Ranger trucks.

Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
Alex a park ranger at Hagley Park.

A final thank you to Miffyohara who was an excellent teacher and guided me through the skills required for woodland photography. In our discussions, subjects ranged from composition of woodland scene to a debate on giving titles to our pictures. The sharpening of my observational skills was one outcome of the day. The final word goes to Hagley Park which is a must visit location and will appeal to everyone not just photographers.

Woodland Photography, Hagley Park, Worcestershire, 2024
An iPhone picture of an interesting tree and thank you to Miffyohara for showing me the beauty of trees.

If you wish to see more of my previous woodland photography then I have added a link below. I will revisit Hay Wood with a different eye to my compositions.

Bluebells, Hay Wood, Near Baddesley Clinton, April 2024

The bluebell season is here and is earlier than normal.  Usually the flowers are in full bloom around the May Bank holiday weekend.  This year their arrival appears to be 1 to 2 weeks early.  A blue carpet of bluebells is always stunning especially when set against the backdrop of the woodland.  This year I went to Hay Wood as a fellow photographer had taken a picture of the blue carpets of flowers and the scene looked stunning.  

Bluebells, Hay Wood, Near Baddesley Clinton, April 2024
The blue carpet of bluebells.

Hay Wood is part of Forestry England and is a small wood which is near to Baddesley Clinton. The latter is an outstanding National Trust property which is always lovely to visit. We are fortunate to have Hay Wood nearby.  The bluebells appear on specific patches to the east and west parts of the woodland.  The easterly display was at its peak and even though I was there around midday, the light was wonderful.  The new shoots of green leaves glistened in the sun and the bluebells contrasted against the trees rising upwards.  

Bluebells, Hay Wood, Near Baddesley Clinton, April 2024
Light and shadows highlighting the scene.
Bluebells, Hay Wood, Near Baddesley Clinton, April 2024
Bluebells around the trees.

The bluebells to the west of the wood looked beautiful and they were still flowering.  More photographs of the blue carpet were taken.  The western part of the wood has a public footpath that links with St Michael’s church that is adjacent to the Baddesley Clinton estate.  I visited the church as there is the opportunity to take a picture of the bluebells in the foreground and the church providing the background interest.

Bluebells, Hay Wood, Near Baddesley Clinton, April 2024
A solitary bluebell plant with a backdrop of green and blue.
Bluebells, Hay Wood, Near Baddesley Clinton, April 2024
Old tree trunks add interest to the scene.
Bluebells, Hay Wood, Near Baddesley Clinton, April 2024
Muddy paths led to the bluebells.
Bluebells, Hay Wood, Near Baddesley Clinton, April 2024
St Michael’s Church, Baddesley Clinton with bluebells.

All these pictures were taken with my Fujifilm x100vi and  I bracketed the exposure of the pictures.  The 3 photographs were merged with the HDR function in Lightroom.  Some adjustments of the shadows and highlights plus dodging and burning were made.

If you enjoyed these pictures of the bluebells then please follow the links below to see previous entries in my blog.

IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024

Birmingham has a long and rich history and the names of George and Richard Cadbury are linked with the story of the City  Their success in creating Cadbury’s Chocolate led to the building of their factory in Bournville.  The brothers created a Garden Village around the factory to cater for their employees.  Sadly Richard died before seeing the project completed although this spurred on George Cadbury to complete the project.  Bournville village is now run by a Trust and is a legacy which is enjoyed by both residents and visitors to the area.

IgersbirminghamUK, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
The Rest House which is at the centre of Bournville Village.

IgersbirminghamUK organised their first photographic Instameet of 2024 at Selly Manor which is part of Bournville Village Trust. Selly Manor also has a long story. The original building “Smythes Tenement” dated back to 1476. Over time, the building deteriorated and was split into separate dwellings called the “Rookery”. The house was saved from demolition by George Cadbury who brought the property in 1907 and relocated Selly Manor from Selly Oak to Bournville Garden Village. The House was rebuilt next to the Chocolate Factory in 1916 and opened as a museum. 

IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
Daniel addressing the IgersbirminghamUK photographers.

Nearly 30 photographers arrived at the Museum on a bright sunny Saturday morning.  We received a welcome from staff member, Daniel, who gave us an overview of the house and then encouraged us to visit the rest of the area.  We were given a leaflet of the heritage trail that takes in all the notable buildings in the Bournville village.  We have some excellent photographers in the IgersbirminghamUK ranks as evidenced by the pictures that emerged on Instagram.  You can follow the pictures and reels from the day with the following tags and I have provided links to the relevant pages.  Please take some time to visit the pages and see the wonderful pictures. Thanks to the other members of the IgersbirminghamUK team for their organisation and help with the meeting Nicky Warwickshire, LenaMac77 and James_never_Jim.

The following is a selection of my pictures from the Selly Manor and Bournville Village Visit.

IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
Guide books at the ready.
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
A view of the Minworth Greaves building from a window in the Manor.
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
Beautiful detail of this head dress.
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
Civil war helmets.
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
A priest hole in the attic.
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
Easter decorations.
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
Beth and Adam dress up for the day.
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
Easter egg hunt in the gardens (sadly not the chocolate variety).
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
The stocks are waiting for you.

Further reading on Selly Manor and the Bournville Village Trust.

Following on from Selly Manor some photographers moved onto the Bournville Quaker meeting House where one of the Quakers, Anne, was most kind and showed us around inside.  The outside of the church does have a fairy castle feeling.  Inside the large hall was impressive with light streaming through the windows.  There is a raised platform with chairs and table from the Selly Manor museum.  This, as Anne pointed out, is not used for worship as Quakers sit around in circles in the centre of the hall usually with a table.  Anne then took us up to the balcony to see the organ and from here we were able to take pictures down into the hall.  I was even fortunate that Anne agreed to be in my 100 Strangers project. 

IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Quaker Meeting House, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
Bournville Quaker Meeting House.
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Quaker Meeting House, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
The hall inside the meeting house.
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Quaker Meeting House, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
The light streaming into the Hall.
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Quaker Meeting House, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
Organ Pipes
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Quaker Meeting House, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
The command centre 🙂
IgersbirminghamUK, Selly Manor, Quaker Meeting House, Bournville Village Trust. March 2024
Thank you to Anne who kindly showed us around the Meeting House.

There is much more to see in and around the Bournville Village Trust and those photographs will have to wait till another day. I spend much of my time talking to other Instagrammers during an Instameet and do not get the opportunity to take that many photographs.  Catching up with others and seeing what they have photographed is a bonus with such Instameets.  After the meeting we headed off to the Glass House brewery by the canal in Stirchley.  We had a good catch up including talking about that elusive picture that got away!

If you are interested in the @IgersbirminghamUK Instameets then I have other accounts on my blog with the one below as a starting point.

Our beating heart, Snow Hill Square, Birmingham, March 2024

A big, revolving, mirrored heart has appeared in Snow Hill square accompanied by lights and seventies disco music.  Quite a combination when you think about it.  Such retro art installations catch my imagination.  “Our beating Heart” is a pop-up show sponsored by Colmore Business District and is free to view.  

I hurried along after a meeting at the MAC to see the latest art installation that Birmingham has on show.  Snow Hill was quiet, sparsely populated with commuters heading home.  In the middle of the square was the heart slowly revolving and lit up by lights.  The 11,000 mirrors reflected the light around the darkened buildings of the square.  The effect was pleasing and mesmerising as shards of coloured light gave a snowfall effect on the buildings.  The music was very much retro.  Whilst I was there taking pictures, songs from my youth were blasted out into the night.   Heart of Glass by Blondie and Saturday Night Fever by the Bee Gees are two examples of the disco style music.  This an open-air disco and luckily there was no rain.   

Our beating heart, Snow Hill Square, Birmingham, March 2024
View from the Station end of the square.
Our beating heart, Snow Hill Square, Birmingham, March 2024
No bikes allowed!
Our beating heart, Snow Hill Square, Birmingham, March 2024
Colour popping

Just to emphasise the fun of the evening two people were dressed up in multicoloured swap-shop jackets and were ready to engage in conversation with passers-by.  The installation was Instagram friendly and I was not alone in taking photographs.  Some serious picture taking was happening and a look at the socials shows how everyone wanted to have a piece of the action.  The heart was not the easiest object to photograph, very bright lights against the dark is tricky at the best of times.  My humble offering of photographs may not be the best but they give a flavour of the atmosphere.  There is much more information on the Colmore Business District web site and the pity is that the heart is only around for a few nights.  There was a board, where you could post supplied stickers saying how the heart made you feel.   I enjoyed seeing the heart but left bemused that a disco light shaped as a heart with retro hits has captured everyone’s imagination.  But that is what good art does by making you give an opinion.  My advice go and visit as the heart is worth seeing just for the picture taking.

Our beating heart, Snow Hill Square, Birmingham, March 2024
Multi-coloured swapshop jacket.

More information on the Beating heart designed by Studio Vertigo and the Colmore Business District.