Jacks blog & news page

Fuji Finepix HS20 EXR Bridge Camera

2011-12-08T16:22:00.001+01:00

In stock now

The Fuji FinePix HS20 EXR is innovative, versatile and more. The HS20 EXR features a 16 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor, a 30x optical zoom lens covering focal lengths from 24-720mm (35mm equivalent), high speed continuous shooting capability (up to 8 fps at full resolution), versatile video functions and an improved user interface. The Fuji FinePix HS20 EXR sets new standards in bridge camera functionality and performance. I have put this new model through my usual tests and I am very impressed with it.
The camera feels very well built and everything is easy to use, if you want to use this camera in full auto mode you can, simply set EXR auto and the camera will set everything for you including choosing the right scene mode. However if you want to be more creative with your photography then there lots of setting to choose from, in fact the camera looks and feels like a miniature SLR camera.
I think the button layout is one of the best yet on a bridge camera I have seen. On the top of the camera you have a nice big shutter button, with 2 smaller buttons behind it but not to close, for adjusting the bracketing and selecting the frame rate. You then have the main control dial which is a sensible size. This gives you quick access to the following settings, EXR (full auto with scene selection), Program, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Manual, Custom functions (this allows you to save settings that you may use regularly and then select them) Panorama mode (you can record full 360 degree images with this) this is a nice idea which work very well (with practice) you then have 2 SP modes (scene position) which allows you to select frequently used scene modes, save them and return instantly to them, next to this is ADV mode which is an advance pro focus setting, this allows you to experiment with advance pro focus and pro low light modes. Next to this dial is a slightly smaller but well placed dial for adjusting settings when you use the short cut buttons to the left of the main screen on the rear of the camera.
On the back of the camera you have a large a very sharp 3” screen which you can tilt, this is a very nice touch, I tried it when doing close up (macro) shots with the camera and found it very helpful.
Next to the screen down the left hand side you have the following buttons which are very handy short cuts to camera settings that saves you having to go into the main menu all the time, from the top, ISO allows you to quickly change the ‘film speed’ in manual modes, AE which you can use to change the metering pattern, AF which allows you to change the focus mode from centre, multi or tracking, AF c-s-m, quickly change focusing mode from single shot, continuous or manual, lastly you have WB (white balance), this allows you to adjust the WB setting from auto to various settings depending on the shooting conditions, I like the ‘live’ adjustment you see on the screen when you make any changes.
Moving to the right of the screen you have a instant video record button, great feature simply press it start recording video instantly. You then have an AE/AF lock button which allows to lock metering and focus. The ‘flat’ joystick has RAW settings, yes can even record your images in RAW or jpeg and both at the same time if you wish. There is also a macro select button, flash settings button and self timer. In the middle is the main menu button. You also have a display setting button and an image play back button, the display setting button allows to adjust info you see on the screen. Finally the lens has a manual zoom and a manual focus ring. I really like the manual zoom idea, which allows you quickly compose your picture and should save on battery power.
This is a perfect camera for anyone wanting to advance their photography but not go down the SLR route and carry lots of heavy kit/lenses. It’s small enough to fit a large jacket pocket or would take up very little room in a rucksack.
I know this is one of my longest reviews to date but I really like this camera and think it deserves it. The quality of the prints I achieved from it are superb. I have them at the shop if you want to have a look. Oh and one very cool feature I nearly forgot to mention, if you have the screen on and then decide to use the cameras built in view finder, it automatically switches between the two for you when you put the viewfinder up to your eye. I really like this feature which saves you time not having to remember to press a button before the view finder works.
Manufacturers link

Features

· Megapixels	16.0
· Sensor type	EXR-CMOS
· Sensor size	1/2 inch
· Optical zoom (x)	30x
· Focal length (tele)	720 (35mm)
· Focal length (wide)	24
· Exposure modes	27 Scene Modes
· Advanced Anti-blur technologies	(image stabalisation)
· Viewfinder type	LCD
· Screen size (inches)	3.0
· Screen resolution (pixels)	460000
· Flash type	Built in / External
· Movie mode	1080p HD
· Card format	20MB Internal, SD, SDHC, SDXC
· File formats	JPEG (Exif Ver 2.3), RAW, H.264(MOV)
· Connectivity	USB, HDMI Mini connector
· Battery model	4x AA Batteries

I look forward to seeing you; don’t forget you can take test pictures with any camera you are looking at, which I will print instantly for you to. I also set up every camera sold with my customers and show them how to use it.
Thanks
Jack
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NIKON COOLPIX L120 BRIDGE CAMERA

2011-10-06T17:04:00.001+02:00

NIKON COOLPIX L120 BRIDGE CAMERA

Considering this camera has a 21x optical zoom it’s still very small and fits well into your hands. Its is very easy to use with 17 scenes modes that you can either set yourself or let the camera do it for you. During my test shots the camera produced very sharp images which were correctly exposed and the colours and tonal range were amazing. I found the VR (vibration reduction) to be very affective, when you consider that the 21x NIKKOR optical zoom gives you the 35mm equivalent of 525mm this is definitely a good feature to have. You can either zoom the lens in and out by using the controller in front of the shutter button on the top of the camera or there is a zoom controller that is located on the lens barrel. A very clever idea that enables you to concentrate on taking pictures with the shutter button and adjust the focal length at the same time. I also really like the quick video button that saves you having to change modes and miss the moment. The only thing that for me is missing on this camera is a view finder; however this is more than made up for by the large, bright, high res 3” screen for you to look. I had no problems looking at it during my test. This does however make the camera a lot smaller than some other Bridge camera. In fact the camera is very well put together and designed to make it very easy to use from the complete beginner to someone with a bit more knowledge. A very good customer & friend of mine has bought one of these cameras and takes fantastic macro (close up) photographs of insects & moths. The images are very sharp and beautifully coloured.
Nikon Link

Features

· Easy-to-use: boasts dedicated buttons for all major functions and superior ergonomic design for comfortable handling.

· High-power zoom: NIKKOR 21 x zoom lens with wide-angle to super-telephoto coverage (35mm equivalent: 25-525mm). Offers outstanding precision and sharp resolution.

· 14.1 megapixel CCD image sensor lets you capture outstandingly detailed images and produce stunningly sharp enlargements.

· Large, high resolution 7.5 cm (3-in.) 921k-dot LCD monitor with wide viewing angle and anti-reflection coating. Simplifies composition and playback, even in bright sunlight.

· Crisp HD (720p) movie recording with stereo sound: a dedicated video record button makes it easy to begin filming, and optical zoom with autofocus is available during recording. Features a built-in HDMI connector so you can connect the camera directly to a HDTV.

· Side zoom control enables smooth, steady zooming throughout the 21x zoom range when shooting photos or movies.

· 4x anti-blur automatically counters blurred images in four different ways. Hybrid VR (Sensor-shift and Electronic Vibration Reduction) Vibration Reduction) reduces the effect of camera shake and can be set simultaneously for additional protection. High ISO (up to 6400) light sensitivity reduces the risk of blurred images with fast-moving subjects or in low-light.

· Motion detection compensates for camera and subject movement.

· Best Shot Selector (BSS) automatically selects the sharpest of up to 10 sequential shots.

· Smart portrait system: advanced automatic features for perfect portraits. Smile Timer takes the shot when your chosen subject smiles. Skin softening adjusts uneven skin tones on people's faces for smoother looking skin.

· Advanced Face Priority AF with in-camera red-eye fix lets you quickly detect and focus accurately on up to 12 faces in the frame, and corrects false eye colour due to flash the instant you take the shot.

· Powered by four AA-size batteries: making it easy to replenish your camera’s power source, no matter where you are.

· 17 scene modes automatically optimize settings for popular photographic styles, effects and locations.

Thanks

Jack

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PANASONIC LUMIX FZ45 CAMERA BLACK

2011-09-22T16:56:00.002+02:00

PANASONIC LUMIX FZ45 CAMERA BLACK
The build quality of this camera is one of the best I have seen in Bridge Camera format. It feels very comfortable to hold and has well positioned controls. I have just done some test shots with the camera, primarily to test the awesome lens; the results that I printed at A4 were staggering. Very sharp at 25mm edge to edge, the colours and metering are the best I have yet seen in the format! The tonal range and clarity are superb. At 24x optical zoom (600mm) you would expect things to be a bit softer, however the image still looks very sharp, I keep looking at the prints because I can’t quit believe the quality! I took the images on standard settings without any additional sharpening which you can do with this camera. They were standard jpeg images; the camera will record RAW files. The power IS (image stabilization) works very well to help prevent to camera shake.
The intelligent scene mode worked well in my test with the camera adjusting the scene well when changing your location/viewpoint
The DMC-FZ45 can record HD movie in AVCHD Lite with high sound quality of Dolby Digital Stereo Creator. Motion JPEG format is also available (1,280 x 720 pixels). I like the quick video record button on the top of the camera, which you can press to start shooting video instantly, without having to change menus or adjust anything.
There are also quick buttons on the camera for access to things like, exposure bracketing, flash settings, AE/FE lock, ISO, macro and quick menu. All of these are clearly labelled and not to fiddly. The main dial on the top of the camera controls all the cameras main shooting functions, including full auto (just turn the camera on and start taking pictures the camera will do the rest for you), aperture priority, shutter priority, manual, video, program and manual scene selection mode, there are also some very useful quick selection scene modes and you can even set up to 3 custom functions. A lot of settings on the camera you would normally expect to find on a full blown SLR camera. All this might seem a bit daunting to some, but everything is clearly labelled and explained as you change settings, it offers you a great deal of flexibility and creativity with your photography. And don’t forget you can just set the camera to do everything for you if you wish.
To conclude then this is a really outstanding bridge camera, that does everything you will ever need and much more. Oh and I nearly forgot to mention it even has a view finder that you can look through on those rare occasions when you can’t or don’t want to use the 3” screen. If you come to the shop to look at one for yourself I will show you the prints which speak for themselves. EXCELLENT!!
This is a perfect camera for anyone wanting to advance their photography but not go down the SLR route and carry lots of heavy kit/lenses. It’s small enough to fit a large jacket pocket or would take up very little room in a rucksack.
PANASONIC LINK

Features

·         14.1 megapixels
·         24X OPTICAL ZOOM
·         IS (MULTI MODE IMAGE STABILIZATION)
·         MACRO MODE (CLOSE UP PHOTOGRAPHY)
·         25mm Wide-angle 24x Optical Zoom f/2.8-5.2 LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT Lens

· Focal Length

(25-600mm in 35mm equiv.)

·         FULL HD Movie in AVCHD Lite with Creative Movie Mode
·         iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode with Power O.I.S.
·         23+ scene modes
·         3" LCD with Wide-viewing Angle
·         EYE VIEW FINDER
·         FACE RECOGNITION
·         DOLBY STEREO SOUND RECORDING
I look forward to seeing you; don’t forget you can take test pictures with any camera you are looking at, which I will print instantly for you to. I also set up every camera sold with my customers and show them how to use it.
Thanks
Jack
EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
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SOMERSET
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T: 01643 862026
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SPECIAL OFFER

2011-08-19T13:12:00.000+02:00

FREE
CAMERA BAG & SANDISK 4GB SD ULTRA MEMORY CARD WITH EVERY CAMERA SOLD!
OFFER ENDS 30TH SEPTEMBER 2011
(subject to exmoor photography terms & conditions)
Exmoor Photography Gallery & Camera Shop Link

JACK’S CAMERA REVIEWS 9TH AUGUST 2011 CANON POWERSHOT A3300 IS CAMERA SILVER

2011-08-09T17:19:00.000+02:00

Hi,
Another new camera now in stock,
CANON POWERSHOT A3300 IS CAMERA SILVER
Well this really is a cool camera, nicely designed and put together it feels very comfortable to hold. All the buttons are clearly labelled and easy to change. It has a very clear, bright and sharp 3” screen. A nicely positioned mode dial on the top of the body allows you change all of the camera modes including setting it to shoot video, program and smart auto which selects the best camera settings for the lighting you are shooting in. When I tested it, it even recognised when I was shooting macro mode (close ups) I like the little window that comes up on the screen to tell you what mode the camera has chosen, very clever. I also like the live view mode that allows you to adjust various picture settings while framing the shot in real time. All the cameras different modes that I tested appeared to do what they are supposed to, the face detection worked very well as did macro mode. The camera metered the test shots I took accurately and they appeared to be sharp and nicely coloured. If you have read any of my other Canon reviews you will know what a big fan I am of there Digic 4 processor which is also installed in this camera. There is an impressive choice of 32 scenes modes that you can select yourself if you are feeling more creative or you can let the camera do it for you. It also has a ‘hints & tips’ feature that gives you an on screen explanation of the mode you are choosing and what is does to the image. The camera also has optical image stabilization which helps to reduce camera shake and has dynamic IS which uses the optical image stabilizer to reduce wobble on movies. I am selling this camera with a free case.
Features
• 16.0 Megapixels
• 28mm wide, 5x zoom lens
• Optical Image Stabilizer
• 7.5 cm (3.0") LCD
• Smart Auto, Easy mode and Hints & Tips
• HD Movies (720p) with Dynamic IS
• Live View Control and Creative Filters
• Face Detection, Auto Red-Eye Correction
• DIGIC 4
• Li-ion battery
I look forward to seeing you; don’t forget you can take test pictures with any camera you are looking at, which I will print instantly for you to. I also set up every camera sold with my customers and show them how to use it.
Thanks
Jack
EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
THE HIGH STREET
PORLOCK
SOMERSET
TA24 8PT
T: 01643 862026
M: 07790 885506
E: exmoorphotography@btconnect.com

JACK’S CAMERA REVIEWS 9TH AUGUST 2011 NIKON COOLPIX L23 SILVER

2011-08-09T17:18:00.000+02:00

Hi,
Another new camera now in stock,
NIKON COOLPIX L23 SILVER
SPECIAL OFFER ONLY £69.95
INCLUDING NIKON CAMERA CASE, BATTERIES
& 2 YEAR WARRANTY
This is probably one of the easiest cameras I have ever used. It would be ideal for the complete beginner on a smaller budget. It has an impressive list of functions that I would normally expect to find in a camera for twice the value. I particularly like the inclusion of ‘easy auto mode, I have tested this and it works. I also like the fact that you can override the flash, bracket your exposures if required and take close up images (macro). All of these can be selected by the press of a button on the rear of the camera. You have a clearly labelled ‘flat joystick’ to allow you to make these changes, if you want to or you can simply turn the camera on start taking pictures and let it do the rest for you. The test pictures I have done appear to be sharp and correctly metered. It was a gloomy overcast day when I tested the camera. I think it should be very capable of printing ‘A4’ size images. The focusing appeared to work well and was accurate. I also like the inclusion of a 5x optical zoom, normally you would be lucky to get 3x in the price bracket. The screen was bright, clear and easy to see, perhaps not the sharpest I have seen but it does the job ok. The perfect camera for anyone just starting out in photography, the COOLPIX L23 boasts a host of automatic technology for perfectly effortless shooting.
Wherever you are and whatever you want to shoot, Easy Auto Mode optimizes all camera settings for superior results, making it simple to capture the shot you want.
The wide-angle 5x zoom lens lets you capture everything from sharp close-ups to stunning group photos with ease, and Nikon’s Smart Portrait System ensures perfect portraits every time. Compatible with AA-size batteries and boasting a slim body, it’s easy-to-power and easy-to-carry anywhere.
The COOLPIX L23 - A great way to start. Overall a great little camera that is sensibly priced and very easy to use. Put simply, it does what it says on the tin!
Features
• Easy operation: conveniently placed control buttons and helpful automatic technology for effortless shooting.
• NIKKOR wide-angle 5x zoom lens offers outstanding precision and sharp resolution. (35mm equivalent: 28-140mm).
• 10.1 megapixel CCD image sensor lets you capture outstandingly detailed images and produce stunningly sharp enlargements.
• High quality body available in a range of stylish colors.
• 3x anti-blur automatically counters blurred images in three different ways. Electronic VR (Vibration Reduction) reduces the effect of camera shake. Motion detection compensates for camera and subject movement. Best Shot Selector (BSS) automatically selects the sharpest of up to 10 sequential shots.
• Generous 6.7 cm (2.7-in.) LCD monitor with brightness boost function to enhance visibility.
• Smart portrait system: advanced automatic features for perfect portraits. Smile Timer takes the shot when your chosen subject smiles. Blink Proof alerts you when someone had their eyes closed. Skin softening adjusts uneven skin tones on people's faces for smoother looking skin. In-camera Red-eye Fix corrects false eye color due to flash the instant you take the shot.
• Easy Auto mode optimizes all camera settings according to the light you are shooting in.
• Powered by two AA-size batteries: making it easy to replenish your camera’s power source, no matter where you are.
• 17 scene modes automatically optimize settings for popular photographic styles, effects and locations.
• EXPEED C2: Nikon's advanced image processing system optimizes all camera technologies for superior performance and maximum image quality.
I look forward to seeing you; don’t forget you can take test pictures with any camera you are looking at, which I will print instantly for you to. I also set up every camera sold with my customers and show them how to use it.
Thanks
Jack
EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
THE HIGH STREET
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JACK'S CAMERA REVIEW FUJI FINEPIX F550EXR

2011-07-27T12:35:00.000+02:00

Hi,
Another new camera now in stock,
FUJI FINEPIX F550EXR CAMERA BLACK
Take your photography to the next level with a camera that you can carry in your pocket.
I have just finished putting this camera through its paces. And I love it; the images are simply stunning, I have printed some wide angle, full 15x optical zoom (360mm) and macro shots. All are perfect, awesome colours, sharpness, WB (white balance) and tonal range. The detail is excellent and there is no noise (grain) at all!! The design of this camera feels very robust and has a finger and nicely placed thumb grip. The Fuji FinePix F550 EXR digital camera is packed with features and loaded with some of the latest technological innovations. The F550 EXR is the ideal camera for discerning point-and-shoot photographers or SLR users who want to travel light but don’t want to compromise image quality and picture-taking versatility. Superb results are assured with exciting new features including an innovative 16 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor, advanced GPS functions, high speed shooting capabilities, a 15x wide-angle zoom lens, Full HD video functionality and an improved user interface. With a stylish design and pocketable dimensions, the FinePix F550 EXR is set to become the must-have compact. The focusing is very fast and accurate and the tracking mode seems to work well. I like the 27 scenes modes which are very useful and the ones I tested did very well. I really like the on screen instructions that tell you what the mode you are choosing is likely to do. The main function dial is angled to face you at the top of the camera a design feature that shows some clever design by Fuji. I particularly like the one touch video button on the back of the camera, which makes missing that moment less likely. The 3” screen is very bright and one of the sharpest of have yet seen. It performs very well in bright sunshine I was still able to see the image clearly standing in bright sunshine. The zoom is very fast and accurate and the image stabilization works well. The camera metering seems to be very good; I have noticed that some Fuji cameras can under expose in certain lighting conditions, but not this one! You even have a choice of spot metering a feature that I really like. The only thing that I think takes a bit of getting used is the pop up flash, although this is automatic which I like (on some cameras you have manually activate it) you do have to remember to move your finger to allow it to raise. Over all a fantastic camera, you can even record RAW files with it. I really do think that Fuji have thought of pretty much everything with this camera.

Features

Megapixels – 16.0

Sensor type – EXR-CMOS

Optical zoom – 15x

Focal length (tele) – 360

Focal length (wide) – 24

Image stabilisation – yes

Exposure modes – 27 scene modes

Viewfinder type – LCD 3”

Screen resolution – 460000

Flash type – built in

Movie mode – 1080p

Face detection technology – yes

Card format – sd, sdhc, sdxc

File formats – jpeg, raw, mov

Thanks

Jack

EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY

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JACK’S CAMERA REVIEWS UPDATE 2 JULY 2011

2011-07-05T15:23:00.002+02:00

JACK’S CAMERA REVIEWS UPDATE 2 JULY 2011
Hi,
Another new camera now in stock,
PANASONIC LUMIX DMC-TZ8 CAMERA BLACK
Another great camera from Panasonic featuring the Leica DC Vario-Elmar lens. This camera is part of the very impressive Panasonic super-zoom range of digital cameras. The 12x optical leica lens has a zoom range that is the focal length of 25mm to 300mm (in 35mm terms). During my testing of the camera I found this range very useful, the wide angle 25mm was great for landscapes etc and the 300mm full zoom was great for reaching those more distant subjects. This focal length is actually what I use for a lot of my wildlife photography. I’m not suggesting that it is as sharp as my Canon 300mm 2.8L series lens. But then you don’t need a second mortgage and a very understanding wife to buy this camera either!! All joking aside I was very impressed with the printed results from this camera at both ends of the lens focal length. The Leica lens produced crisp, sharp images at 25mm, which were exactly what I was looking at on the screen when I took the pictures, The meaturing appeared to be accurate and the colours were superb. I particularly like the lack of noise (grain) on the prints that I did. At the other end of the lens (300mm) the results were some of the best I have seen on a camera of the class and price. Not quite as sharp as the 25mm end but not far off at all. I liked the ‘depth’ of the images and how well it coped with shadow areas. The focus was quick and accurate during my test and I found it easy to take macro (close up) shots with the camera. Again the results were sharp and accurately exposed. I like that you can override the flash, which of course you don’t always need or want for macro work. The optical image stabiliser performed well during my test, to help keep images blur free. The TZ8 records 1280x720HD video at 30fps. I also tried all the programs including Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Manual exposure modes. This is a great compact camera which has everything you need to be more creative with your photography, but also does everything for you with full auto and intelligent auto if you want it to. If you don’t want to go down the SLR route and carry lots of kit and heavy lenses this is a great alternative. I certainly wouldn’t mind having it in my kit bag.
Features
Camera Effective Pixels
12.1 Megapixels
Optical Zoom 12x
Focal Length f=4.1-49.2mm (25-300mm in 35mm equiv.)
Extra Optical Zoom (EZ) 14.7x (4:3 / 8M), 18.8x (4:3 / 5M), 23.4x (under 3M)
Intelligent Zoom 16x
Lens LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR / 10 elements in 8 groups / (2 Aspherical Lenses / 3 Aspherical surfaces / 2 ED lenses)
29 scene modes Yes
Optical Image Stabilizer Power O.I.S. (Off / Auto / Mode1 / Mode2)
Digital Zoom 4x / ( Max. 48.0 x combined with Optical Zoom without Extra Optical Zoom ) / (Max. 93.8 x combined with Extra Optical Zoom) Focus
3” SCREEN
Normal / Macro, Zoom Macro, Quick AF On/Off (On in Intelligent Auto), Continuous AF On/Off, AF Tracking

I look forward to seeing you; don’t forget you can take test pictures with any camera you are looking at, which I will print instantly for you to. I also set up every camera sold with my customers and show them how to use it.
Thanks
Jack
EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
THE HIGH STREET
PORLOCK
SOMERSET
TA24 8PT
T: 01643 862026
M: 07790 885506
E: exmoorphotography@btconnect.com

Gallery Update July 2011

2011-07-01T18:12:00.002+02:00

Gallery Update
New Pictures of Stoats, Exmoor Ponies Foals and Red Deer Calves now in stock (shop). I will update the website with these new images when I get 5mins!!
I also have a new colour range of mounts in stock
Stoats
I have had a fantastic time photographing a family of Stoats on Exmoor the Kate and I found completely by chance recently. There were 5 Kits (babies) in all who were intent on chasing each other around playing, climbing trees and being generally boisterous. They didn’t seem to mind us being there at all. One of them actually came towards me nearly to my feet. For a brief moment he was to close to photograph!! A totally awesome experience, one I won’t forget for a long time.
Exmoor Ponies
We have had some great evenings and very early mornings photographing the Ponies this year, always being careful not to get to close and disturb them. The foals have been very playful and full of energy. Wish I could say the same!! Great fun to watch and photography though.
Red Deer Calves
We counted 12 in one location the other morning, still very very young and we didn’t want to disturb them so didn’t get close. Beautiful to see though, I love their colours and small size. All the ones we saw were looking healthy and well looked after by their mums. Didn’t realise how much I missed photographing them having missed most of the spring on Exmoor last year, while I was photographing the Kingfishers.
Jack
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THE HIGH STREET
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JACK’S CAMERA REVIEWS UPDATE JULY 2011

2011-07-01T17:16:00.002+02:00

JACK’S CAMERA REVIEWS UPDATE JULY 2011
Hi,
I have increased the range of cameras I sell which now includes both the following cameras,
PANASONIC LUMIX FS35 BLACK CAMERA
I have just been doing some test shots and prints with this camera, the first thing I noticed is how very easy it is to use. The screen is bright and clear and gives on screen text that tells you what you are doing. A function that most main manufactures are now including on their cameras. The image sharpness, colour reproduction, contrast and tonal range are excellent. Which surprised me a bit, given that this is a small mid range camera. The Leica DC VARIO – ELMAR lens performs well in this body, giving results that are better than I expected. I have seen better optical zooms (for twice the cost) however this one is still very good and the image stabilisation performs well. The focusing appeared accurate on all the test shots I did. And the macro (close up) mode was very sharp. I like the warning it gives you if you are to close to your subject. The cameras metering appeared accurate in the conditions I tried and the WB (white balance) was good, giving crisp vivid colours, in bright sun shine or shade. The lens offers focal lengths of 28-224mm (35mm camera equivalent) and features Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) to reduce blur in pictures caused by camera shake, even at maximum zoom. Considering this is a camera aimed at the smaller budget I think it gives very good results and has all the functions you would expect from a modern digital compact camera. And is still small and light enough to fit into a pocket or handbag.
Features
• Megapixels 16.1
• Optical zoom (x) 8.0
• Focal length (tele) 224
• Focal length (wide) 28
• Image stabilisation Yes
• Exposure modes 28 Scene Modes
• Viewfinder type TFT Screen LCD Display
• Screen size (inches) 2.7
• Movie mode 720p HD
• Face detection Technology Yes
PANASONIC LUMIX FS18 BLACK CAMERA
What a cracking little camera, even smaller and thinner that the FS35, but apart from having a smaller optical zoom of 28-112mm (35mm camera equivalent) and features Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) to reduce blur in pictures caused by camera shake. It has nearly all the features that the FS35 has. I am simply amazed at the image quality this camera produces, very crisp and sharp, lovely colour reproduction and tonal range. The prints I produced from it were identical to the scene I took, which is very impressive in deed for a camera of this price and size. Like its ‘big brother’ I think this camera is ideal for landscapes, family get together and nights out with friends. Very compact and incredibly easy to use. I would be more than happy to show people the results that this camera produces. I have test pictures from both these cameras and all the models I stock for you to see.
Features
• Megapixels 16.1
• Optical zoom (x) 4.0
• Focal length (tele) 112
• Focal length (wide) 28
• Image stabilisation Yes
• Exposure modes 26 Scene Modes
• Viewfinder type TFT Screen LCD Display
• Screen size (inches) 2.7
• Movie mode 720p HD
• Face detection Technology Yes
I look forward to seeing you; don’t forget you can take test pictures with any camera you are looking at, which I will print instantly for you to. I also set up every camera sold with my customers and show them how to use it.
Thanks
Jack
EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
THE HIGH STREET
PORLOCK
SOMERSET
TA24 8PT
T: 01643 862026
M: 07790 885506
E: exmoorphotography@btconnect.com

RICHARD COOPER & COMPANY

2011-06-16T16:45:00.000+02:00

I am now stocking Bronze ‘Country Life’ Sculptures by Richard Cooper & Company. These are simply stunning solid Bronze Sculptures, as a wildlife and Nature photographer they are the most natural and lifelike that I have seen. The sculptors and designers have really captured the beauty and majesty of are native British Wildlife in all it’s splendour. Many Thanks
Jack

RICHARD COOPER & COMPANY

FINE ART IN BRONZE

Limited Additions

Butler & Peach Fine Bronze Range

Richard Cooper & Company work with UK sculptors and designers to create stunning and unique foundry bronze sculptures. Products range from the flamboyant figurative work of Landanski, through to the detailed wildlife studies of Michael Simpson. All bronzes are produced using the lost wax method. Each bronze is decorated and finished either using traditional patinas or by hand painting with acrylics and enamels. Prices start at £25 retail.
Bronze has been valued from the earliest civilisations in Greece, Egypt and Rome to the modern world today. It has been used to make utensils, weapons, furniture, statues, and monuments. In fact virtually anything that needs strength and must wear indefinitely.
It is fascinating to realise that a foundry from the old world would employ similar techniques to todays. Naturally there have been improvements over the generations but the system remains intact and true to the heritage.
The same high skill level to manage the intense heat generated in the process is needed, yet at the same time a delicate hand has to create the rich patina associated with bronze. A product from the ancient world would look similar if crafted today.
The appreciation of decorative bronze sculpture is probably more relevant today than at any time in the past. The style of homes in the Victorian era for example was full of objet d'art but today we favour clean uncluttered lines. One fine bronze sculpture is all that is needed.

EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
THE HIGH STREET
PORLOCK
SOMERSET
TA24 8PT
T: 01643 862026
M: 07790 885506
E: exmoorphotography@btconnect.com

JACK'S BUSHNELL EXCURSION EX 10X36 BINOCULAR REVIEW

2011-06-14T18:11:00.002+02:00

JACK’S BUSHNELL BINOCULAR REVIEW
BUSHNELL EXCURSION EX 10X36
IN STOCK NOW
(BUSHNELL EXCURSION EX 7X36 BIRDING SERIES ALSO IN STOCK)
What a great pair of Binocular these are, they are extremely light weight but they have a rugged, go anywhere feel and tough build quality, which would explain the life time ltd warranty that comes with them. I recently sold a pair of these to a customer who wanted a bright view, easy and comfortable to use pair of binoculars. She instantly liked these; they are very easy to focus with a smooth centre focus wheel that has a nice grip to it. The twist up eye cups stops your eyelashes touching the lens and interfering with your view. The high-performance multi coated optics provide superb brightness and edge-to-edge clarity and are housed within a light-weight, nitrogen-purged double bridge body which is water proof, fog proof and sealed against moisture and dust. The body’s rubber amour not only protects them from knocks and scrapes but also makes them extremely comfortable and easy to hold in the hand. They come with a very sturdy case and bag, single strap and a brilliant ‘quick attach’ shoulder harness which is padded. These binoculars are ideal for bird watching or general nature viewing. I really like the design of the lens caps, the rear attaches to the straps and the front ones are attached to the body. Both can be easily removed if you wish. But if you’re anything like me you will probably want to leave them attached, I regularly empty my car boot looking for missing lens caps!!

· MODEL 243610

· MAGNIFICATION 10X36

· SIZE CLASS MID SIZE

· FOCUS SYSTEM CENTRE

· PRISM SYSTEM ROOF

· PRISM GLASS BAK-4

· BEST OPTICAL SYSTEM IN ITS CLASS (FULLY MULTI-COATED LENSES + PC-3 PHASE COATED PRISM)

· FIELD OF VIEW (FT.@1000YDS/M@10000M) 341/114

· EYECUPS TWIST UP

· WATER / FOGPROOF YES

· DIOPTIC ADJUSTMENT

Thanks

Jack
EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
THE HIGH STREET
PORLOCK
SOMERSET
TA24 8PT
T: 01643 862026
M: 07790 885506
E: exmoorphotography@btconnect.com

JACK'S BUSHNELL TROPHY XLT 10X42 BINOCULAR REVIEW

2011-06-14T18:08:00.001+02:00

JACK’S BUSHNELL BINOCULAR REVIEW
BUSHNELL TROPHY XLY 10X42 CAMO
IN STOCK NOW
(BUSHNELL TROPHY XLT 10X28 CAMO OR GREEN ALSO IN STOCK)
This binocular is bigger and slightly heavier than the EX range, but it still feels very comfortable to handle, the focus is very quick and the image is incredibly clear. The magnification is fantastic for those subjects that are further away. The build quality is designed for durability, light transmission, clarity and a rugged go anywhere build quality. They are very good at locking onto and focusing on a moving subject, a very obliging Buzzard flew over the shop the other day while we were outside trying these binoculars!! The detail, sharpness and clarity were very impressive. I particularly like the design of the grip on the lens barrels which make them feel solid and sturdy to hold. The central focus system is easy to reach and quick to focus, it has a nice grip finish to it. The lens caps are attached to the front to prevent loss, theses can be removed. The rear caps can be attached to the strap. They come with a versatile bag and straps. This bag can also be attached to your belt or rucksack straps. This is very useful design feature. The camo finish is very effective, it is very similar to my camo jacket that has served me so well over the years; I think this should help you blend into your surroundings nicely. I think these are a very well designed pair of binoculars, offering extremely clear images and excellent magnification, but still not big or heavy to use.

· MAGNIFICATION 10X42

· SIZE CLASS STANDARD

· FOCUS SYSTEM CENTRE

· PRISM SYSTEM ROOF

· PRISM GLASS BAK-4

· LENS COATING FULLY MULTI

· FIELD OF VIEW (FT.@1000YDS/M@10000M) 325/108

· EYECUPS TWIST UP

· WATER / FOGPROOF YES

· DIOPTIC ADJUSTMENT

Thanks

Jack
EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
THE HIGH STREET
PORLOCK
SOMERSET
TA24 8PT
T: 01643 862026
M: 07790 885506
E: exmoorphotography@btconnect.com

JACK'S CAMERA REVIEWS UPDATE JUNE 2011

2011-06-05T14:32:00.002+02:00

Hi, I am stocking both the following cameras,
Canon IXUS 115 HS
What a cracking little camera! I have had a good look at this camera and taken some test shots with it. Wow, it really does what it says on the tin, crisp sharp images and excellent colours. It has a very user friendly layout and again features the Canon ‘pop up’ advice screen text that tells what you are doing when you change modes etc. The 28mm 4x optical zoom lens gives lovely results and is image stabilized, which is very effective at preventing camera shake. For those of you that like doing macro photography it has a very good macro setting which is easy to activate. In fact all the cameras main settings are featured on a nicely placed button and flat ‘joystick’ on the back of the body. There is even a one touch movie record button to activate the 1080p HD movie recording. This means you can change instantly from stills to video without having to enter the settings menu and miss the moment!!! The camera features 32 scenes modes including auto scene mode and has some very useful manual settings if you want to be more creative with your photography, including things like exposure compensation (bracketing) and even spot meaturing! You can of course let the camera do all the work for and use it on full auto, simply turn the camera on and start shooting. I also really like that there is no delay between pressing the shutter button and recording the image. I think this is a very well built slim metal bodied camera that boasts some fantastic features, a small size and very bright, clear 3” screen. It also has the Canon DIGIC 4 processor which I am a very big fan of.

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Features

HS System (12.1 MP)

28mm, 4x zoom. Optical IS

Slim metal body

7.6 cm (3.0") PureColor II G LCD

Full HD. Dynamic IS. HDMI

Smart Auto (32 scenes)

High-speed Burst & Super Slow Motion Movie

Movie Digest

Creative shooting modes

Optional Waterproof Cases

CanonWebsite Link

Fuji Finepix S3200 Bridge Camera

Wow, Wow, Wow!!!! I simply love this camera it is an awesome piece of kit. Very well designed and simple to use. The 24x optical image stabilized zoom lens is fantastic. It is actually the 35mm equivalent to a 576mm lens! The features don’t stop there though, it also has a very useful super macro feature, you can almost touch the subject you are photographing with the front of the lens. The camera body is light but metal has a nice grip on the lens barrel and a comfortable thumb grip on the rear of the body. Not only does it have a large 3” bright screen but also has a viewfinder (eyepiece) that you can look through. The main control dial is well placed on the top of the body and has a nice grip. All the main functions are on this dial including full auto mode, Program mode, shutter priority, aperture priority, manual, custom functions, video, panorama mode, scene selection and auto scene mode. The auto scene mode is an amazing feature, the camera recognises you environment, lighting etc and select/changes the scene mode automatically. This feature does work I have tried it!

The zoom button is well placed to the front of the shutter button, both of which are well sized for small or big fingers (or gloves). There are very useful face detection and continuous shooting buttons placed behind the shutter button. Everything else is position to the rear of the camera next to the screen, including the menu, quick zoom, macro, flash and self timer buttons. These are clustered on a well sized menu and flat ‘joystick’ design. You also have a very well placed exposure compensation (bracketing) button, which you can press and change with you thumb, I know I have tried it, very useful.

This is a perfect camera for anyone wanting to advance their photography but not go down the SLR route and carry lots of heavy kit/lenses. It’s small enough to fit a large jacket pocket or would take up very little room in a rucksack.

Features
14 Megapixel CCD

24mm wide-angle -super zoom lens

Dual Image Stabilisation

3.0" LCD screen (460K dot resolution on the S4000 and 230K dot on the S3200)

EVF (200K dot resolution)

Full HD stills and 720p HD movie capture (30 fps)

HDMI port for easy image display on any HDTV

Up to ISO6400 (at reduced resolution)

Easy web upload to Facebook and YouTube

Face Detection with Blink detection and Smile and shoot mode

Face Recognition technology

SR Auto (Scene Recognition Auto)

Full Manual Controls

Tracking AF

Motion Panorama mode

Intelligent Flash

Image Search function with Photobook assistant

Auto Rotate

4 x AA batteries

Fuji Website Link

I look forward to seeing you; don’t forget you can take test pictures with any camera you are looking at, which I will print instantly for you to. I also set up every camera sold with my customers and show them how to use it.

Thanks

Jack
EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
THE HIGH STREET
PORLOCK
SOMERSET
TA24 8PT
T: 01643 862026
M: 07790 885506
E: exmoorphotography@btconnect.com

SHOP NEWS JUNE 2011 - NEW CAMERAS

2011-06-02T16:05:00.007+02:00

I am now stocking 2 more great new cameras, both have impressive specifications, build quality and functions that will impress new photographers and those of you perhaps looking to upgrade.
The Canon PowerShot SX130 IS digital camera is an easy to use family camera with an impressive 12x optical zoom lens. This lens offers focal lengths from 28mm to 336mm, enabling you to capture almost any shot in almost any location, from wide landscape photos to close-up action shots of sports or wildlife. The lens is image stabilized to prevent blur and can also be used to capture amazing 720p HD video. The 12.1 megapixel SX130IS features Smart Auto mode that detects the type of scene being photographed and chooses the best setting appropriate to that shot, ensuring you always get the best possible photo. In addition to the clever auto modes, the Canon PowerShot SX130 IS also provides full manual controls, giving you even greater creative options. This camera also has the DIGIC 4 processor installed, which as you know I am very impressed with. It helps to provide crisp, sharp images, is very good in low light conditions and has excellent colour reproduction.
I really like this camera, I think it is well built, has a very useful optical zoom, very good custom functions and manual settings as well as full auto settings. It is also small enough to fit in your jacket pocket! I particularly like its design and the control layout. Canon has also included the on screen manual that comes up on screen to tell you what you are doing a feature I really like.
CANON WEBSITE LINK
The second camera I am now stocking is the Fuji FinePix F80EXR which is equipped with a 10x zoom lens that offers focal lengths from 27-270mm (35mm equivalents) for both wide-angle landscape or interior photography and close-up action and wildlife shots. To help keep images blur free, the powerful zoom is paired with Dual Image Stabilization to reduce the effects of camera shake.
This is another great camera, I know I keep saying this but as a photographer I am trying to stock a range of cameras that will cater for all levels of photography, from complete beginners to serious amateurs and pros. This is another well built solid little camera, with all the custom functions and full auto modes you would need. It has a very clear 3” screen, a very useful 10x optical zoom, 18 scene modes and very clever film simulation mode. The EXR sensor boosts the cameras performance, resolution etc by increasing the image quality depending on the lighting conditions. I have tested this feature and I am really impressed with it, it works very well without ‘overcooking’ the images. The resulting image quality is way beyond what you would expect for a camera in this price bracket.
FUJI WEBSITE LINK
I look forward to seeing you; don’t forget you can take test pictures with any camera you are looking at, which I will print instantly for you too look at. I also set up every camera sold with my customers and show them how to use it.
Thanks
Jack
The shop address is, I am open every day 10.00am - 6.00pm
EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
THE HIGH STREET
PORLOCK
SOMERSET
TA24 8PT
T: 01643 862026
M: 07790 885506
E: exmoorphotography@btconnect.com

SHOP NEWS - CANON EOS 1100D Now in Stock

2011-05-24T16:22:00.007+02:00

I have just taken delivery of the Canon EOS 1100D EF-S 18-55II kit. This is a fantastic entry level camera from the Canon range, ideal for those of you wishing to step up to the next level with their photography.
CANON UK WEBSITE LINK
The new Canon EOS 1100D entry level DSLR offers EOS imaging power in an affordable, easy-to-use package. With a 12.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and technology inherited from Canon’s professional models, it ensures crisp, sharp images even in low-light conditions. The Canon EOS 1100D combines exceptional still shooting with the ability to shoot HD (720p) video. To satisfy your creativity it features full manual control and selectable frame rates. The Canon EOS 1100D allows continuous shooting of large JPEG images at speeds of up to 3.2 fps, while the wide-area Auto Focus system uses 9 separate focusing points to track your subject. Canon’s built-in dust prevention system guards images against dust. I have taken some test shots with this camera and I am very impressed with the quality, colour, tonal reproduction and low noise. It actually has the Digic 14-bit DIGIC 4 image processor similar to my Canon 1DMK4!!!
I really like this camera and would recommend it to any one wanting the ability to advance their photography. I especially like the on screen text 'tutorials' it gives you when you change settings. Which is a bit like having your own professional photographer stood with you to give advice!!
Thanks
Jack
CLICK HERE FOR SHOP DETAILS

The shop address is,
EXMOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
THE HIGH STREET
PORLOCK
SOMERSET
TA24 8PT
T:01643 862026
M:07790 885506
E:exmoorphotography@btconnect.com

SHOP NEWS MAY 2011

2011-05-14T11:25:00.003+02:00

Hi,
The first month in the new shop has gone well; I have received lots of support from Porlock residents and visitors alike. The Kodak instant print Kiosk has been well used, customers like the fact that I will show them how to use or even do it for you!!! The Kodak image discs have arrived so you can now back up your digital images using the Kiosk for future use and storage.
The passport service has been popular, don’t forget you don’t have to book, if I’m not busy in the shop I will do them straight away for you.
The cameras have been received well, customer seem to like my knowledge and the personal service offered. Customers have been taking test shots with me and I have then printed samples for them to see. I have also set up every camera sold with the customer before they leave the shop. I have increased the range of cameras sold, which now includes the fantastic Fuji Finepix S3200 and the Canon Ixus 115 HS. Please don’t hesitate to visit the shop or contact me for details and advice on the cameras I sell.
The Gallery is busy, customer seem to appreciate the effort that has gone to my work and the quality of the products we sell. I have also printed and mounted some of my local landscapes which are for sale.

Thanks again to everyone for your support; I look forward to seeing you in the shop.

Jack

GALLERY & SHOP INFO

2011-05-05T14:26:00.001+02:00

Hi,

The open evening for the new shop went very well last weekend, it was really great to see everyone, thank you for your support.
The first full week of trading has been really good, the canvas prints and cameras have been very popular and the Kodak Kiosk has been well used. Don’t forget if you haven’t used one before I am very happy to show you or even do it for you!
The passport service I am offering has also been used, despite an initial problem with the dedicated printer! This was replaced overnight by the supplier.
I have increased the range of cameras I am stocking; I now have digital compacts, bridge cameras and SLR’s. Don’t forget anyone looking at a camera can take some test shots with me, which I then print straight away for you to see. I will also set up any new camera purchased and explain it to the customer. As a photographer myself I have spent a lot of time researching the stock I have, making sure they are all easy to use, good quality and affordable. I am stocking Canon, Fuji, Nikon and Kodak Cameras.

See you soon
Thanks
Jack

New Gallery Shop

2011-04-01T14:53:00.010+02:00

More great news, I have finally found a shop to open my own Gallery. We will be opening on Monday 25th April 2011. The address is, Exmoor Photography, The High Street, Porlock, Somerset, TA24 8PT.
M: 07790 885506
T: 01643 862026

I will be selling my own work including the following,

Prints
Mounts
Frames
Canvas Wraps
Calendars, Post Cards, Greetings Cards and Gifts.
Digital Cameras, Batteries, Memory cards & Bags
We will also be providing a Passport image service and a Kodak Photo Printing Kiosk.

I look forward to seeing you,
Thank you
Jack.

New Website

2011-04-01T14:52:00.000+02:00

Hi,
My new website is now live, please click on this link to open it.
Exmoor Photography

I have also started a Facebook page, please click on this link to find it.
Facebook

Thank

Jack

New Website, latest news & Facebook.

2011-02-02T22:37:00.002+01:00

I am currently building a completely new website having at last found some software that does everything I want it too!! I have also started a Facebook business page for Exmoor Phototgraphy.
I will post links to both when they go live, the old website is still up and running as normal in the mean time.
January has been a busy month this year, I have been photographing Exmoor’s Red deer, I watched a 30+ stag herd on Sunday. I haven’t seen this many together for years. It was great to see and they were very close to the road so I didn’t have to walk far. I am really suffering with my back and ankle at the moment, I don’t think all the cold weather has helped.
The ‘farm’ hide has been very productive, I am concentrating on birds in flight at the moment, so far I have Great Spotted Woodpecker, Jay’s, Long-tailed Tits and Great Tits amongst other things.
I have also been to Slimbridge WWT this month. I haven’t been for years during the winter. I wanted to see and photograph the Whooper and Bewick Swans, I wasn’t disappointed, the weather was fantastic, we had a rare sunny day, the light was perfect. I got all the shots I wanted of the swans, including some lovely flight shots in the afternoon sun.
I also arranged for Katie to meet the education officer Sue at WWT. We had a brilliant meeting with her, it was very interesting and informative.
I have also just been given permission to put a hide on some land to try and photograph Brown Hares, I can’t wait to have a go. I get asked a lot for Hare photographs, so fingers crossed!!
I will post all the latest images here and on the website as soon as I have the chance to edit and catalogue them!!!

Jack

Stock Update

2010-12-29T21:37:00.002+01:00

I have now completely run out of my Nature Calendars for 2011, however if you want to order 10 or more I will re order, retail and trade enquiries welcome, please contact me for info.

I will be publishing a variety of different Calendars next year, including Kingfishers and Red Deer Calendars. I will be selling these on the website and at Country Shows / Fairs we attend in 2011. I will publish details of these on this blog. please contact me for info.

We still have a selection of greetings card available, retail and trade enquiries welcome, please contact me for info.

Jack

Red Kites Gigrin Farm

2010-12-28T20:18:00.002+01:00

Went back to Gigrin Farm with Jane and Katie on the 17th of December. Drove up in heavy snow, took us 3 hours to get there and 5 to get back!!! There was a good foot of snow when we arrived and another 2” on the car when we left. Glad I put new all terrain tyres on the Disco this year, they performed really well.

The feeding was amazing; the cold weather had definitely brought more birds in. At one point the sky was black with Red Kites. There were also a lot of Buzzards, Kestrel, Hen Harrier and a very brave Grey Heron! We were lucky with the weather it stopped snowing for and hour and then started again in the last 15mins before we left.

One of the best days photography I have ever had, I managed to get all the shots I wanted and more. I will update the website gallery in the New Year. I have quite a back log of images to catalogue as usual.

Jack

Red Kites

2010-12-16T11:01:00.001+01:00

Had another great visit to Gigrin Farm recently. The Red Kites were fantastic and came in very large numbers. Got some great shots even though the sun disappeared and the clouds rolled in as we arrived!! I will upload all the new images onto the website soon, check the Raptors’ Gallery for latest updates. I am also planning to go back when it snows!!

click here for website gallery

Jack

NEW EXHIBITON PORLOCK VISITOR CENTRE

2010-12-11T14:10:00.002+01:00

A big thank you to all the customers we met at the West Somerset Garden Centre Christmas Market, Alison and I really enjoyed chatting to you all, it was a lovely atmosphere and very busy, thank you for your custom.

We would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas

& Happy New Year.

Jack
We now have a selection of my work (including Our Christmas Cards & my limited addition Nature Calendar 2011) for sale at the
Porlock Visitor Centre
The Old School, West End,High Street, Porlock, Somerset, TA24 8QD.
Phone: 01643 863150

Don't forget you can also still see a large exhibition of my work for sale at the
Shelduck Bookshop & Gallery
The High Street, Porlock, Somerset.

West Somerset Garden Centre Christmas Market

2010-11-30T18:10:00.019+01:00

Thank you to all the customers we met at the Exmoor Christmas Fair, it was lovely to see you all, we now look forward to seeing customers new and old at the below venue this weekend.

West Somerset Garden Centre

Christmas Market

Saturday December 4th between

9am and 4pm

Mart Road, Minehead, Somerset,

TA24 5BJ

Exmoor Christmas Fair 2010

2010-10-18T20:55:00.010+02:00

Exmoor Christmas Fair

and Demonstrations.

Porlock Village Hall

Saturday 27th November

3-7pm

Sunday 28th November

10am-4pm

Not to be missed........

We will be there for both days this year in the main hall,
there will be a large selection of my work for sale,
including Canvas, Frames, Mounts, Calendars and Christmas cards.

We look forward to seeing you there.

RED DEER RUT EXMOOR update 18 10 2010

2010-10-01T14:29:00.014+02:00

The Rut is now going strong, I have had a brilliant 2 weeks on Exmoor. Aldermans Barrow seems to be the best place to see Rut action at the moment. I watched 2 stags fighting for at least 20mins very early there the other day. In 25years it was one of the most aggressive fights I have ever witnessed. Got some great shots and video!! Everything was eerily quiet, there was no bolving at all and I was watching one stag who was fast asleep with his hinds, suddenly a second larger stag appeared. In stead of the usual bolving, bluffing and head rolling/shaking, they just charged at each other like 2 freight trains and their horns/antlers remained locked for at least 20mins, neither one wanting to give up. Eventually the smaller stag saw off the larger one, both were completely worn out after the battle, fantastic!!!

Unfortunately I have had to remove one of my hides, due to inconsiderate people trespassing on the owners land, we were both worried about unnecessary disturbance of the deer.

(I heard my first one last year a week ago), still plenty of time yet, the rut was very early last year. Sorry the picture is a bit ‘hazy’ it was actually pouring with rain!!

Thanks to B, A and S for all your help. I will post new images as soon as I can. The Stag below was not where I normally see him, he still seemed perfectly happy to have other stags around his hinds. I have only heard one ‘bolver’ so far this year

PS DOES ANYONE KNOW OF A SHOP/GALLERY THAT MAY SELL MY WORK? I ALREADY SUPPLY GALLERIES IN SOMERSET AND DEVON, BUT UNFORTUNATELY ONE OF MY BEST ONES HAS JUST BEEN SOLD, SO I NEED A REPLACEMENT. I AM TRYING TO RAISE FUNDS TO OPEN MY GALLERY, BUT ALL THE BANKS WANT MASSIVE DEPOSITS THESE DAYS!!!

Click here for website Gallery
Jack

The Big Cheese

2010-09-12T22:18:00.003+02:00

If you are planning to visit Exmoor for this years Red Deer Rut, then why not visit
'The Big Cheese, High Street, Porlock, West Somerset, TA24 8PT Tel: 01643 862773.'
Your Local Cheesemonger, Delicatessen & Coffee Room. New Bigger Premises Open Now.
Martin & Sharon will offer you a very warm welcome, and the following,

50+ Cheeses West Country our specialty
Cheese Room, Come in unwind & relax. Try a Cheese Platter or Ploughmans, with a glass of wine or cider, or a cup freshly ground coffee, then browse a while in their shop.
Gift Shop, slate cheese boards, olive oil drizzlers, antipasti trays, cheese knives etc.
Out walking, Come in & order a Picnic or ramblers pack.
No time to stop, Take away hot pies, pasties, sausage rolls, demi baguettes or sandwiches made to order.

Porlock Arts Festival 9th – 12th September 2010

2010-09-09T22:17:00.002+02:00

You can see an exhibition of my work at the Porlock Village Hall, Porlock, Somerset for the duration of the above festival. I have a display of my images in the hall with other exhibitors and a selection of my canvas images in the main hall.

See link below for the festival schedule.
Jack
click here for festival link

Red Deer Stag Rut

2010-09-09T22:03:00.008+02:00

It’s nearly that time of year again and I can’t wait, although the nights are drawing in now I always look forward to watching the Rut on Exmoor. This bolving stag is still one my favourites, he really is a magnificent, powerful and graceful animal.

Jack

click here for website Gallery

Fox cubs

2010-08-14T23:11:00.003+02:00

The Fox cubs are exploring further afield now if somewhat nervously. There is a definite pecking order amongst the litter, the largest male takes great pleasure stalking his siblings and then diving into the middle of them, sending them all scattering!
The smallest cub who ‘J’ has named ‘squealer’ is getting even more boisterous, hissing and squealing at anything that gets to close. While sitting in the hide the other evening I suddenly realised that there was now 7 cubs out. I had previously only seen 4? I suspect this is possibly an extended family a sibling of the breeding vixen perhaps, something that I have heard of but never seen.
Jack
Click here for website Gallery

Kingfishers

2010-08-14T22:20:00.005+02:00

I have now spent nearly 3 months photographing Kingfishers, one of my favourite birds.

My thanks to J and K for all their help and assistance. I have been very lucky and had some fantastic days observing and photographing these birds. We have witnessed some fascinating behaviour, including courtship and mating, which I have never seen before.
Jack
Click here for website Gallery

Puffins

2010-08-01T23:07:00.005+02:00

My wife and I went to Skomer at the end of June to photograph Puffins.

Having been told that we need to be there early we decided to travel over the night before and camp. Big mistake, those of you that know me will know about my bad back, I could not get comfortable in the tent so I gave up and sat in the car. After a night of no sleep, we got up at 4.30(am) and walked down to the booking office at Martins Haven. I’m very glad we did, by 6.30 there were 50 other people and by 7.30 there were 200+. As they only take 250 over to the island each day you definitely need to get there early, unfortunately you can’t pre book! Anyway when we got to the island the access was not too bad for me, once you get up the steps! Alison and I found a nice quiet spot away from the crowds which had some very obliging Puffins. Had an absolutely fantastic day, the weather was perfect and I got all the shots I wanted and more.
Jack

Link to Skomer Island web site

Click here for website Gallery

BLOG, WEBSITE UPDATES & Fox, Kingfisher, Puffin, Bittern samples.

2010-06-30T00:18:00.022+02:00

Some of you have noticed that my blog is a month out of date!! Sorry about that I have been extremely busy, I will be back soon.

I am also about 2 months behind with the website at the moment, the two hides I have are keeping me very busy, as well as some trips further afield. The weather, so far, has been fantastic this year.

I have a huge amount of images to upload when I am in the office for more than 5 minutes!!!!

Including the following,

• FOX CUBS

• BITTERNS

• PUFFINS

• KINGFISHERS

• GREEN WOODPECKER

• GREAT CRESTED GREBES

• NUTHATCH

• WATER VOLE

• DIPPERS

• STOAT

I am hoping to find time in the next couple of weeks to update everything.

Jack

BITTERN

2010-05-21T23:50:00.010+02:00

Had a fantastic week photographing the Bitterns on the Somerset levels this week.

I really like these birds, but they a very hard to photograph! Once they have landed in the reeds, they disappear almost instantly, so good is their plumage. I have been very lucky and finally got some shots in the reeds and good flight shots.

Jack

FOX

2010-05-14T17:30:00.003+02:00

The Fox I have been watching from one of my Exmoor Hides came in very early today and gave me some great photo opportunities, including this one which my daughter says looks cute.
Still no cubs yet though, but fingers crossed should be any day. I have seen some elsewhere briefly.
Jack
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HERON

2010-05-14T17:26:00.005+02:00

The Heron chicks are growing very quickly now and still making a lot of noise.
I managed to get some lovely views of them on Monday morning this week as the sun came up. The Heronry is located near Bossington, Porlock, Somerset.
Jack
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Porlock Visitor Centre

Great crested Grebes

2010-05-14T17:19:00.006+02:00

The Great Crested Grebes have built a great nest on Ham Wall Nature reserve, Somerset Levels this year.
I have been very lucky managing to photograph them Dancing, 'weeding' and nest building. I went back again on Monday this week and noticed that one egg and hatched. The chick gave us all a few moments of concern as is ventured off the nest into the water. However the parents were very quick to return it to the safety of the nest. I have also just heard that 3 chicks have now hatched, cheers for that Rob.

Update - Grebes chicks all doing very well, had good views of all 3 this week. Mum and dad are doing a great job of looking after them, even if they do all fall off when mum has a shake! Doesn't dad look proud in the photo?
Jack

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FIGHTING PHEASANTS

2010-05-14T17:14:00.003+02:00

Spent another glorious day at Shapwick Nature reserve recently, when my attention was drawn to these to Cock Pheasants having a go. They were at it for a good 20mins with neither one wanting to give in.
Jack
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RED KITE

2010-05-14T16:58:00.005+02:00

We went to the Gigrin farm feeding station in March this year for the first time.
Arriving early (nothing to do with my driving) we set up our gear in one of the ground floor hides and waited. Not for long as it turned out, the first specks appeared on the horizon floating on the thermals. The Buzzards and crows came in first and began to sort out the best places to wait. The Red Kites not far behind arrived and put up most of the Buzzards and Crows. When the tractor arrived with its load of feed, I was surprised at how quickly the feeding frenzy began. The Buzzards and crows squabbled with each other, but the Kites were obviously dominant. They began to swoop in a bit like Hobbies and snatch their food on in the wing, it was amazing to watch and very fast. We stayed for 4 hours in the end, what a very rewarding day out. I think next time I go, I will try one of the new hides upstairs and you definitely need a 'blue sky' sunny day for photography.

Jack
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MINK

2010-05-14T13:28:00.008+02:00

Mike had already spotted this Mink while walking on the Somerset Levels and he was kind enough to show me. I know they are not everyones favourite thing, but he did look rather cute and he seemed very keen to have his photograph taken! Jack Click here for website Gallery

RED SQUIRREL

2010-05-13T22:58:00.007+02:00

Spent the day on Brownsea Island, Poole, Dorset earlier this month.
Never been before, what a great place. Saw lots of waders, Sika Deer and a Kingfisher. My visit was mainly to photograph the Red Squirrels and they were very obliging. With a bit of patience and keeping quiet I was very lucky to get most of the shots I wanted. My thanks to the warden on the Dorset Wildlife Reserve for all her help. And to Jamie and Lisa who came with me and helped with my gear. Jack
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NEW GALLERY

2010-05-13T17:07:00.000+02:00

Shelduck café and Gallery

You can now see an exhibition of my work for sale at the Shelduck Book shop and Gallery at the High Street, Porlock near Minehead in Somerset. Their phone number is 01643 862266.
Jamie and Lisa will offer you a very warm welcome, something nice to eat and drink, in relaxing and peaceful surroundings.
My thanks to them both for sharing our passion for wildlife and the opportunity to display our work.

FOX

2010-05-13T15:53:00.005+02:00

Had a great time this winter photographing Foxes among other things from one of my hides on Exmoor. Got very cold at times, but it was worth it! This Vixen was a regular visitor to the location. I think the cold got to her as well as one morning she walked up the hide and poked her nose underneath it, looked at me and walked off. As you can see she was in fantastic condition and it was very interesting watching her behaviour. Looking forward to seeing cubs in the spring if we are lucky.
Jack
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Also see photo of the month

GREEN WOODPECKERS

2010-05-12T23:45:00.007+02:00

Spent some great days this month photographing one of my favourite woodland birds, the Green Woodpecker. I have uploaded the new images onto my main website. My thanks to Mike and Jamie for all their help.
Jack
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