Paul Cross Photography

     Website - Blog With More Images On January 26th, 2025, I ventured out to Warnham Local Nature Reserve during a storm, eager to capture some wildlife despite the dreary weather. As the rain poured and the wind howled, the reserve was far from the peaceful, sunny scene one might imagine for a photography outing. But as always, nature had its own plans, and it was the Blue Tits that stole the show. The Resilience of Blue Tits in the Storm Despite the relentless downpour, the Blue Tits were as active as ever. Perched gracefully among the rain-drenched branches, their vibrant blue and yellow feathers stood out against the grey skies. Each tiny bird was covered in droplets, which sparkled on their plumage in the subdued light, adding an unexpected splash of color to an otherwise monochrome day. These birds are incredibly resilient. While many animals might seek shelter during such weather, the Blue Tits continued to flit from branch to branch, darting between the trees and...

     Website - Blog With More Images Stormy weather is often seen as an obstacle for wildlife photographers, but sometimes it presents the perfect opportunity to capture nature's resilience. That’s exactly what I witnessed during a recent visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve on January 26th, 2025. Despite the wind and rain lashing the reserve, the Common Redpolls were out in full force. Dozens of these small, energetic birds took no notice of the harsh conditions. Perched on branches, their tiny forms were speckled with water droplets, yet they remained unfazed by the storm around them. It’s always a treat to see wildlife in its natural element, and even more so when you’re able to witness their resilience. The Redpolls, fluffed up against the chill, carried on as if the storm was just another part of their daily routine. Their striking red caps stood out brilliantly against the grey, overcast sky, making it the perfect moment to capture their beauty in such dramatic cir...

     Website - Blog With More Images Sometimes, the best wildlife moments happen when the weather is at its most challenging. On January 26th, 2025, I braved the wind and rain at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, and to my surprise, so did the birds. Despite the stormy conditions, these resilient creatures continued their routines, each feather slick with raindrops but undeterred by the weather. The rain provided a moody atmosphere, adding drama to the scenes as the birds seemed to carry on with life as usual. It was a reminder of the tenacity and adaptability of nature, even when conditions are far from perfect. Here are some of the highlights from the stormy day: A Blackbird with water droplets glistening on its back, unfazed by the downpour. It perched confidently in the wet landscape, a true testament to nature's perseverance. A Chaffinch, soaked but still showing off its vibrant plumage. Despite being drenched, the striking colors of its feathers stood out beautifully ag...

     Website - Blog With More Images On January 25th, 2025, I had another fantastic day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, capturing some stunning moments in nature. This reserve never fails to surprise me with its incredible wildlife and serene landscapes. Whether it’s the graceful flight of the birds or the quiet beauty of the water, Warnham always offers something special. Here are a few of my favourite shots from that day: Black-Headed Gulls in Flight I managed to capture these Black-Headed Gulls in full flight, their wings spread wide against the sky. The movement and elegance of these birds in the air are always a joy to photograph. A Peaceful Bull Rush Scene The calm, soothing image of Bull Rushes gently swaying in the breeze perfectly encapsulated the peaceful atmosphere of the reserve. It’s moments like these that remind me of the tranquility nature offers. Coots Diving Gracefully Watching Coots dive beneath the surface is always fascinating. Their movements in the...

     Website - Blog With More Images On the 25th of January 2025, I had the pleasure of spending a fantastic day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, a place that never fails to inspire awe. As a wildlife photographer, moments like these are what I live for, and I’m excited to share some of the stunning shots I captured during this visit. The reserve, with its diverse habitats and tranquil surroundings, is always a haven for birds, and this time, I was fortunate to catch some incredible action. One of the highlights of the day was photographing the Blue Tit in mid-flight. This tiny bird’s agility is always a joy to witness, and capturing its flight was truly special. Alongside the Blue Tit, I was also able to snap some beautiful moments with a Coal Tit and a Great Tit—both of which are equally captivating in their own right. There’s something uniquely magical about watching these small, vibrant creatures in their natural habitat. From their quick movements to the way they int...

     Website - Blog With More Images On the 25th of January, 2025, I had the privilege of capturing a breathtaking moment at Warnham Local Nature Reserve. It was one of those instances where everything aligned perfectly—the soft, golden light filtering through the reeds, creating a magical backdrop for a Long-tailed Tit. The little bird, bathed in that warm glow, seemed almost ethereal, standing out against the natural beauty of its surroundings. Backlit and delicate, it moved with such grace, a reminder of the quiet wonders of nature that often go unnoticed. For me, witnessing and photographing creatures like this Long-tailed Tit is always special. There's a sense of peace that comes from being in nature, surrounded by the vibrant life of the reserve. It’s moments like these that reaffirm why I am so passionate about wildlife photography—capturing these fleeting interactions between light, life, and the environment. Nature truly has a way of surprising us with its quiet ...

     Website - Blog With More Images On the 25th of January, I had the privilege of experiencing and capturing a breathtaking moment at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, a place I often find inspiration and serenity. It was late in the day, with the soft glow of the fading sun casting a warm light across the reserve. As I was scanning the surroundings, I was fortunate enough to witness one of nature's most vibrant and captivating creatures – a kingfisher. The bird swooped in and landed gracefully among the reeds, its electric blue feathers contrasting beautifully with the rich brown tones of the surrounding plants. The combination of colors was nothing short of mesmerizing, and I couldn’t resist the opportunity to capture this fleeting moment. Kingfishers are known for their striking appearance and their elusive nature, making them a rare and special subject for wildlife photographers. The contrast between the deep, vivid blue of the bird and the earthy, muted hues of the ree...

     Website - Blog With More Images On the 25th of January, I had the opportunity to capture some incredible shots of Tufted Ducks at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, one of my favorite places to photograph wildlife. The day was absolutely perfect for photography — crisp, clear skies and the kind of calm, serene atmosphere that wildlife photographers dream of. The Beauty of Tufted Ducks in Motion Tufted Ducks are such fascinating creatures. Watching them glide gracefully across the water was a truly mesmerizing experience. Their sleek bodies and distinctive tufts make them stand out, and capturing them in their natural habitat was both a challenge and a delight. There’s something so peaceful about how they move, and I’m always amazed by how they interact with the water and their surroundings. Why Warnham Local Nature Reserve Never Disappoints What makes Warnham Local Nature Reserve so special, beyond the stunning wildlife, is the diversity of its environment. It’s the perfe...

     Website - Blog With More Images On the 19th of January, 2025, I had the pleasure of spending a peaceful day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, a place that never fails to offer breathtaking wildlife experiences. It was an incredibly rewarding visit, as I had the opportunity to photograph a variety of birds and observe their natural behaviors. Among the highlights were the stunning Common Redpoll, the vibrant Goldfinch, the ever-charming Great Tit, and the delightful Long-Tailed Tit. Each bird brought its own unique charm to the day, offering perfect moments for photography. The Common Redpoll’s subtle plumage, the Goldfinch’s brilliant colors, the curious nature of the Great Tit, and the playful antics of the Long-Tailed Tit – all of these creatures added something special to the experience. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love capturing wildlife in its natural environment. If you're a nature lover or a wildlife enthusiast, I highly recommend visiting Warn...

     Website - Blog With More Images On January 18th, 2025, I had the privilege of spending the day at one of my favorite locations, Warnham Local Nature Reserve. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and rich wildlife, it’s always a joy to visit and see what new photographic opportunities nature presents. This particular day turned out to be extra special, as I managed to capture a moment I had been hoping for: a Cormorant soaring gracefully through the sky. Watching these magnificent birds take flight never gets old. Their sleek bodies and powerful wings make for a mesmerizing sight as they glide effortlessly through the air. The combination of their dark feathers against the backdrop of the sky creates a striking contrast, and I was fortunate enough to capture this fleeting moment in time. The challenge of photographing a bird in flight is one that I thoroughly enjoy. The need for perfect timing, fast reflexes, and the right equipment makes it a rewarding pursuit. With the...

     Website - Blog With More Image Winter walks at Warnham Local Nature Reserve always bring something special, and my latest visit was no exception. This time, I spent a while observing the Long-Tailed Tits—tiny, energetic birds that never seem to stay in one place for long. The Challenge of Photographing Long-Tailed Tits Long-Tailed Tits are always a joy to watch, but they certainly put my photography skills to the test! These social little birds move rapidly through the branches, constantly chattering to one another as they search for food. Their delicate pink, white, and black plumage makes them stand out beautifully against the winter landscape, but capturing a sharp shot of them in motion is no easy task. Despite their quick movements, I managed to snap a few shots that I’m really pleased with. It’s always rewarding to capture the personality of these birds—their tiny round bodies and long tails give them such a distinctive look, and their constant flitting adds a ...

     Website - Blog With More Images On January 18th, I spent a peaceful day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, hoping to capture some of its wonderful wildlife. But as nature often reminds us, not every day is filled with dramatic sightings. The reserve was calm, and the usual bird activity seemed more subdued. Still, even on the quietest days, there’s always something to appreciate through the lens. Instead of chasing movement, I focused on the smaller, often-overlooked details that make winter landscapes so special. The soft, feathery textures of Bull Rush swayed gently in the breeze, standing tall against the muted tones of the season. A young Common Hawthorn sapling, though small, held its ground with resilience—its delicate branches hinting at the life and growth to come. And then there was the vibrant moss, clinging to an old branch, a striking contrast to the bare surroundings, proving that even in winter, nature finds ways to stay lush and full of character. These ...

     Website - Blog With More Images On 18th January 2025, I spent a fantastic day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, and as always, it did not disappoint! With the crisp winter air and golden light filtering through the trees, the conditions were perfect for wildlife photography. There’s something truly special about this time of year—the stillness of the season is contrasted by the constant flurry of bird activity, making every visit unique. A Day Full of Birdlife Warnham’s diverse habitats always provide a wealth of photographic opportunities, and this visit was no exception. I was lucky to capture a wonderful variety of bird species, each offering a different challenge and moment of beauty. Aylesbury Duck – This stunning white duck stood out brilliantly against the winter scenery, a striking subject for any photographer. Goldfinches – Flocks of these vibrant little birds darted between the trees, adding splashes of color to the landscape. Blue Tits & Great Tits – Al...

     Website - Blog With More Images On 18th January 2025, I had the pleasure of photographing both a male and female Siskin at Warnham Local Nature Reserve. These small finches are always a delight to see, especially during the winter months when their vibrant plumage adds a splash of colour to the season’s muted tones. A Closer Look at the Siskin The male Siskin is unmistakable with his striking yellow-green plumage, accented by black markings on the head and wings. In contrast, the female Siskin is more subtly coloured, with streaky greenish-brown feathers that provide excellent camouflage among the trees. While the male’s bright yellow stands out beautifully, the female blends seamlessly into the wintry landscape—an incredible example of nature’s design. Feeding Among the Alders At Warnham, these finches were busy feeding among the alder trees, a favourite spot for them during this time of year. Alders produce small cone-like seed clusters, which attract Siskins as th...

  Embark on a visual journey with Paul Cross as we return to the picturesque Warnham Local Nature Reserve in March 2024! Witness the quiet magic of winter as I capture the reserve’s diverse wildlife and tranquil landscapes, showcasing the beauty of nature in the heart of West Sussex. 📸 Highlights:  Explore Warnham Local Nature Reserve during the crisp winter season, where wildlife thrives amidst the serene backdrop. Discover techniques for photographing birds and other species in low winter light. Enjoy the peaceful charm of this West Sussex gem, a haven for photographers and nature lovers alike. 🗓️ Trip Details:  Date: February 2024 Location: Warnham Local Nature Reserve, West Sussex, UK 📷 Equipment Used:  Sony A7RIV Sony 200-600mm  Silkypix Developer Pro - https://silkypix.isl.co.jp/en/  Topaz Photo AI - https://www.topazlabs.com/  Affinity Photo - https://affinity.serif.com/en-gb/photo/ 🌐 Connect with Paul Cross:  https://www.paulcross...

     Website - Blog With More Images On January 12, 2025, I spent a fantastic day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, one of my favorite spots for wildlife photography. With my camera in hand, I wandered through the reserve, taking in the crisp winter air and the peaceful sounds of nature. It wasn’t long before I spotted a group of Long-Tailed Tits flitting through the reeds, their delicate forms standing out beautifully against the golden hues of the bull rushes. These tiny birds, with their soft pinkish-white plumage and distinctive long tails, are always a delight to watch. They move in tight-knit flocks, constantly chattering to one another as they dart between branches. This particular moment, though, was special—one had paused just long enough for me to capture it in perfect detail. Moments like these remind me why I love wildlife photography. The Charm of the Long-Tailed Tit Long-Tailed Tits (Aegithalos caudatus) are among the most charming birds you can find in the U...

     Website - Blog With More Images There’s something mesmerizing about watching a grey heron take to the skies. With its slow, deliberate wingbeats and elegant posture, it always makes for an impressive sight. But on a recent visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve, I captured a shot that made me do a double take—this heron, mid-flight, looked like it had a propeller for wings! A Moment of Perfect Symmetry Photographing birds in flight is always a challenge, requiring patience, quick reflexes, and a little bit of luck. As I tracked this heron through my lens, it stretched its wings into a perfectly symmetrical pose, creating the illusion that it was about to take off like an aircraft. The way its wingtips curved and its body aligned reminded me of an old-school propeller plane, caught in a fleeting moment of aerodynamic beauty. The Magic of Nature Photography One of the things I love most about wildlife photography is how nature constantly surprises me. No two shots are e...

     Website - Blog With More Images There’s something captivating about a foggy morning—the way the mist softens the landscape, muffling sound and transforming the familiar into something almost otherworldly. On the 12th of January, I had the opportunity to witness and capture this ethereal beauty at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, where a grey heron stood motionless amidst the haze. The early morning light filtered gently through the fog, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Everything felt still, as if the world itself had paused to admire the scene. The heron, perfectly at home in its misty surroundings, exuded a quiet patience, waiting for the right moment to strike. These birds are masters of stillness, blending seamlessly into their environment, and in the muted light, its silhouette became part of the landscape. Fog has a way of changing the way we see things. It simplifies the scene, stripping away distractions and allowing small details to stand out—like the gentle ri...

     Website - Blog With More Images On the 12th of January, I headed to Warnham Local Nature Reserve to capture the last of the frosty mornings before the season shifted. The crisp air, shimmering frost, and golden morning light created the perfect setting for some truly magical wildlife photography. Capturing the Winter Atmosphere Frost-covered landscapes always bring a special kind of beauty. The way the sunlight catches on frozen branches, the mist rising from the water, and the stillness of the early hours make for an unforgettable experience. That morning, the reserve was alive with wildlife – birds flitting between branches, their breath visible in the cold air, and the occasional rustling in the undergrowth revealing hidden movement. As a photographer, these moments are what I live for. The combination of stunning natural light and the crisp textures of frost adds a whole new dimension to wildlife shots. Each frame tells a story of winter’s quiet beauty before the...

     Website - Blog With More Images A Day of Capturing Light and Shadows There’s something truly magical about winter light, especially when it transforms familiar wildlife into stunning silhouettes. On my latest visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve (12/01/2025), I had the perfect conditions for capturing some backlit wildlife against a golden glow. The low sun provided a warm, ethereal backdrop, turning everyday moments into dramatic compositions. Wildlife in Silhouette The beauty of silhouettes lies in their simplicity—no intricate feather details or colours, just the striking contrast of form against light. Here are some of the standout moments from the day: ✨ Black-headed Gull – Floating effortlessly in midair, its wings spread wide, outlined perfectly against the soft golden sky. A moment of pure elegance. ✨ Herring Gull – A commanding presence in flight, its bold silhouette cutting through the warm evening glow. Gulls are often overlooked, but against the right li...

  Embark on a visual journey with Paul Cross as we return to the picturesque Warnham Local Nature Reserve in March 2024! Witness the quiet magic of winter as I capture the reserve’s diverse wildlife and tranquil landscapes, showcasing the beauty of nature in the heart of West Sussex. 📸 Highlights:  Explore Warnham Local Nature Reserve during the crisp winter season, where wildlife thrives amidst the serene backdrop. Discover techniques for photographing birds and other species in low winter light. Enjoy the peaceful charm of this West Sussex gem, a haven for photographers and nature lovers alike. 🗓️ Trip Details:  Date: February 2024 Location:  Warnham Local Nature Reserve, West Sussex, UK 📷 Equipment Used:  Sony A7RIV Sony 200-600mm  Silkypix Developer Pro - https://silkypix.isl.co.jp/en/  Topaz Photo AI - https://www.topazlabs.com/  Affinity Photo - https://affinity.serif.com/en-gb/photo/ 🌐 Connect with Paul Cross:  https://www.pau...

  Welcome to Paul Cross Photography, where the world of wildlife photography comes to life! In this episode of "Raw Before," I take you behind the scenes of the captivating journey from raw image to the final, breathtaking masterpiece. 📷 Equipment Used:  Sony A7RIV Sony 200-600mm  Silkypix Developer Pro - https://silkypix.isl.co.jp/en/  Topaz Photo AI - https://www.topazlabs.com/  Affinity Photo - https://affinity.serif.com/en-gb/photo/ 🎨 Editing Process:  Watch as I meticulously enhance the colors, fine-tune details, and bring out the hidden beauty of each wildlife capture. From adjusting exposure to perfecting composition, every step is a dance with nature's elements. 🤔 Want to learn more about wildlife photography and post-processing techniques? Drop your questions and thoughts in the comments below! I love hearing from fellow nature enthusiasts.   🔗 Connect with Paul Cross Photography:  https://www.paulcrossphotography.co.uk  htt...

  Embark on a visual journey with Paul Cross as we return to the picturesque Warnham Local Nature Reserve in February 2024! Witness the quiet magic of winter as I capture the reserve’s diverse wildlife and tranquil landscapes, showcasing the beauty of nature in the heart of West Sussex. 📸 Highlights:  Explore Warnham Local Nature Reserve during the crisp winter season, where wildlife thrives amidst the serene backdrop. Discover techniques for photographing birds and other species in low winter light. Enjoy the peaceful charm of this West Sussex gem, a haven for photographers and nature lovers alike. 🗓️ Trip Details:  Date: February 2024  Location: Warnham Local Nature Reserve, West Sussex, UK 📷 Equipment Used:  Sony A7RIV Sony 200-600mm  Silkypix Developer Pro - https://silkypix.isl.co.jp/en/  Topaz Photo AI - https://www.topazlabs.com/  Affinity Photo - https://affinity.serif.com/en-gb/photo/ 🌐 Connect with Paul Cross:  https://www....

  Embark on a visual journey with Paul Cross as we return to the picturesque Warnham Local Nature Reserve in February 2024! Witness the quiet magic of winter as I capture the reserve’s diverse wildlife and tranquil landscapes, showcasing the beauty of nature in the heart of West Sussex. 📸 Highlights: Explore Warnham Local Nature Reserve during the crisp winter season, where wildlife thrives amidst the serene backdrop. Discover techniques for photographing birds and other species in low winter light. Enjoy the peaceful charm of this West Sussex gem, a haven for photographers and nature lovers alike. 🗓️ Trip Details: Date:  February 2024 Location:  Warnham Local Nature Reserve, West Sussex, UK 📷 Equipment Used:  Sony A7RIV Sony 200-600mm  Silkypix Developer Pro - https://silkypix.isl.co.jp/en/  Topaz Photo AI - https://www.topazlabs.com/  Affinity Photo - https://affinity.serif.com/en-gb/photo/ 🌐 Connect with Paul Cross:  https://www.paulcr...

    Welcome to Paul Cross Photography, where the world of wildlife photography comes to life! In this episode of "Raw Before," I take you behind the scenes of the captivating journey from raw image to the final, breathtaking masterpiece. 📷 Equipment Used:  Sony A7RIV Sony 200-600mm  Silkypix Developer Pro - https://silkypix.isl.co.jp/en/  Topaz Photo AI - https://www.topazlabs.com/  Affinity Photo - https://affinity.serif.com/en-gb/photo/ 🎨 Editing Process: Watch as I meticulously enhance the colors, fine-tune details, and bring out the hidden beauty of each wildlife capture. From adjusting exposure to perfecting composition, every step is a dance with nature's elements. 🤔 Want to learn more about wildlife photography and post-processing techniques? Drop your questions and thoughts in the comments below! I love hearing from fellow nature enthusiasts. 🔗 Connect with Paul Cross Photography:  https://www.paulcrossphotography.co.uk  https:...