Paul Ritchie (thelizardwizard)'s photostream  

I’m a keen amateur photographer from Southampton who specialises in wildlife; mainly dragonflies and butterflies, although any animal, bird or insect I encounter in or around Hampshire are worthy subjects.

There is nothing I like better than to spend a few hours outdoors far from human habitation in the company of all nature has to offer, whether it be on the banks of a pond observing the aerial acrobatics of dragonflies, in a summer meadow filled with wild flowers in the company of butterflies or strolling through a forest alert to any animal or bird among the trees.

Photography is a passion I have indulged in over the past three years and the acquisition of a macro lens brought me closer to the little things in life. I am by no means a technical expert and like many things in my life I tend to break the rules, preferring to act on instinct rather than academic know-how.

Nevertheless I am aware that in order to break the rules you have to know them, so I am constantly learning ways and methods to improve my technique while retaining my artistic individuality.

Animals and insects provide a challenge for me with their unpredictable nature and as a subject are far more beautiful to observe and photograph, although I can and do appreciate a good landscape when the opportunity presents itself.

I hope you enjoy my contributions and feel free to visit my dedicated websites.

I also have a long and experienced knowledge of reptiles - especially geckos - which I've kept and bred for more years than I care to remember.



Current Equipment:;-

Nikon D90 (Acquired October 2010)
Nikon D60 (Acquired August 2008)
Nikon AFS DX Nikkor 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6G VR
Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX D Macro (Highly recommended)
Sigma 70-300mm f/4-5.6 APO Macro DG
Lowepro Fastpack 200 (Highly recommended)
Giottos GTMML 3270B Monopod

I generally shoot manual and with the Sigma I'm restricted to manual focus on the D60 and tend to prefer using manual focus on the D90. I may use the bare minimum of post-processing if needed to alter sharpness, contrast or to crop. Those shots that don't make the grade are binned.

Not that I'm by any means qualified to advise, but if I could give one pointer it would be get out there, Everywhere. Especially don't ignore your own local surroundings. There are a wealth of wonderful things around you which you may have ignored in the past. With a camera everything becomes so much more interesting.

I have websites dedicated to the dragonflies and butterflies of Hampshire and the New Forest which can be viewed by clicking the links below:

Hampshire Dragonflies

Hampshire Butterflies

If you're not into dragonflies or butterflies you are welcome check out the other sets on my photostream where hopefully you can find something which appeals to your particular interest.

If you wish to favourite a photo. please do the honour of leaving a comment. It only takes a few seconds. I try to reciprocate on contacts and will eventually mark you as a friend if there is continued interaction. This will allow you to view my photos large.

I reserve all the rights to my photographs. If you wish to use any of my photos please contact me first.

I've had several reptile photographs published with and without articles and so long as the intended usage is above board and not for profit or commercial use permission will be granted.