Now that the days are getting longer and oh-so-slightly warmer, how about getting outside with your camera? There are plenty of opportunities in spring to capture bright and fresh images, so dust off your lens and get snapping!

Find a great setting

As nature starts to wake up after the harsh winter weather, there are some spectacular sights to see. Go for a woodland stroll in search of a thick carpet of bluebells – the perfect photo opportunity.

Get up close

Once you’ve got some stunning spring landscape shots, try moving in closer to get more detailed shots. Experiment with the ‘macro’ setting on your camera to take amazing close-up pictures of delicate and colourful flowers, buds and leaves. These will look great displayed around your home.

On your doorstep

You don’t even need to venture too far for some great photos. If you have a bird feeder in your garden you’ll have noticed plenty of activity as our feathered friends get busy nesting and feeding chicks. Use zoom so you can keep your distance, and select a quick shutter speed to capture sharp shots of fast-moving small birds.

Hello sunshine!

It can be tricky to deal with bright sunlight when taking photos. Try to keep the sun behind you when taking photos, and make sure your subject is not partially shaded – this will give too much contrast in your shot. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly good times to take photos, as the sun’s light will appear more ‘golden’ at these times.

Get into the habit of taking your camera everywhere with you – from dog walks to family days out. You never know when photographic inspiration may strike…