Summer’s approach

The lily of the valley and cow parsley are fading fast now, as spring gently gives way to summer.

We’ve been spending time in our soon-to-be new neighbourhood: still very rural, still in the Calder Valley.

Our next home reminds me very much of our little cottage in Lancashire: it backs onto farmland, there are beamed ceilings and stone stairs. But instead of being on a busy road we’ll be situated on a lane which runs along the brow of a hill. The views are spectacular and we’re looking forward to watching the seasons changing…

This time of year allows us to take more evening walks, and to appreciate the soft light before dusk falls.

We’ve had a spell of hot, sunny weather which is wonderful for sipping coffee on the garden steps and for drying the washing, but it doesn’t lend itself to my style of photography. Too much contrast: bright light, harsh shadows.

But mornings and evenings are perfect for camera rambles. And one of the best places to observe the subtle transition from spring to summer is the canal. I walk to work most of the time, and if I set off early I can extend my route to take in a section of the towpath. It involves crossing the river, which always looks pretty, to reach it.

The canal itself is such an interesting place to explore; nature, industry and community all blend together. It’s ideal for photo walks.

The bluebells, lilacs and wild garlic have now gone over, making way for the vivid colours of foxgloves and poppies. I’ve noted where the wild raspberries are growing, where the dog roses are in bloom. Later there’ll be fruit and hips.

Meandering with a camera allows us to take these mental notes and to become more aware and appreciative of the natural world around us.