http://claireheavenphotography.com/animals daily 0.75 2023-07-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428162721938-TO8ZQISZ8GD29QVP12WF/oryx+dunes+2.jpg Animals - You lookin' at me? Taken in Sossusvlei, Namibia in Sept 2013. We went out early, before sunrise, to watch the sun come up over the dunes. The way the light hits the sands is truly breath-taking. We came across this oryx, standing by the side of the road. A very distinctive creature standing out against a sandy background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428162721938-TO8ZQISZ8GD29QVP12WF/oryx+dunes+2.jpg Animals - You lookin' at me? Taken in Sossusvlei, Namibia in Sept 2013. We went out early, before sunrise, to watch the sun come up over the dunes. The way the light hits the sands is truly breath-taking. We came across this oryx, standing by the side of the road. A very distinctive creature standing out against a sandy background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428162808045-DPGF6QQBXITAZXU08AQB/oloiden+lake+15.jpg Animals - Times two Taken in Lake Oloiden, near Naivasha, Kenya in January 2011. I couldn't tell you what these birds are but they were just two of many different birds on Lake Oloiden. We spent about 2 hours on the lake, gliding through flamingos, hippos, reeds and these birds. I love the way the water picks up the greens of the bushes and trees around the lake, offsetting the colour of the birds.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428162888889-JGODRQYASU3APGRXT4RM/martial+eagle+2.jpg Animals - Beautiful bird Taken in the Masai Mara in January 2011. This was a beautiful martial eagle was sunning itself on a branch but still keeping an eye out for its next prey. I couldn't get over its talons - wouldn't want to meet this bird in a dark alley! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427127227569-O1OKKK3ULIMZ1NN9E3O5/market+3.jpg Animals - My almost pet goat! Taken in Lalibela Market in Ethiopia, January 2011. I fell in love with this goat. We were walking through the main Lalibela Market, a huge affair, when we came across this goat sitting all by itself. It looked at me with this cheeky little smile, and I thought 'can I get him into my suitcase?' I asked my guide to enquire how much he cost, out of interest. A bargain at $15 USD!! Sadly, I had to leave him in Lalibela - strict luggage allowance! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427127371266-8LPSFHFJGY4WD5H9FE00/cheetahs+3a.jpg Animals - Three brothers #1 Taken in the Maasai Mara in January 2011. These three cheetahs were well known to the local guides. Apparently they were three brothers who were always seen together.       https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428004233866-XZ5LRLB767Y72CEEMEWA/cheetahs+16.jpg Animals - Three brothers #2 Taken in the Maasai Mara in January 2011. These three cheetahs were well known to the local guides. Apparently they were three brothers who were always seen together. We came across them one morning, enjoying each others company on top of a rather large termite mound. Magic.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428004233819-CLKY7DD1D4HY1CZO1WNE/cheetahs+11.jpg Animals - Three brothers #3 Taken in the Maasai Mara in January 2011. These three cheetahs were well known to the local guides. Apparently they were three brothers who were always seen together. We came across them one morning, enjoying each others company on top of a rather large termite mound. Magic. It was particularly fun watching them clean themselves; I managed to click this photo as one of the cheetahs licked his nose. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428004237551-1AJXGQI3DJPHL3MU3TCP/cheetahs+20.jpg Animals - Three brothers #4 Taken in the Maasai Mara in January 2011. These three cheetahs were well known to the local guides. Apparently they were three brothers who were always seen together. Here they are as they headed off into the long grass, after something caught their eye. They disappeared into a ravine, probably going to get a spot of lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287371423-Z2R6Z9YX97LB5K6A3E6U/cheetah+14a.jpg Animals - Maasai the Cheetah Taken in South Africa in 2012 This lovely male cheetah was part of a safari park and had been tamed to walk along with visitors. He was happy to pose for photos as long as he got his treats! Sad to see a cheetah in the confines of a park but amazing to see a cheetah up close and personal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471632081363-8A5KJR052HZK2JGOYI84/ellies+stormy+2.jpg Animals - Stormy skies Taken in the Masai Mara in January 2011.   This photo reminds me so much of what the Mara was like when I was there. It would be a beautiful sunny morning and then suddenly the sky would darken behind us, sillouetting the animals. This mama and baby were oblivious to both us and the sky, having a nice old munch on some grass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427127223120-AVJ99P23IJRI4F16IUXO/ellie+male+3.jpg Animals - Don't mess with me! Taken in the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, in January 2011. I was very miffed with my driver as he provoked this lone male elephant into displaying his displeasure about having a car in his path. But it certainly made for a great photo! Luckily this elephant seemed to be all show. After a bit of noise, he carried on his way - and we went in the opposite direction! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428005002003-JJS7CBSE5LLNJOXJQ2QS/rhino+6.jpg Animals - Did you get my best side? Taken in Lake Nakuru, Kenya, January 2011. We spent a wonderful day driving around Lake Nakuru. Known for its mass of flamingos, I was surprised to see several rhino wandering around the park. This particular white rhino couldn't have been less bothered that he had an audience as he grazed on the grass. It was really special to see such a majestic animal up close. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437928276000-FKSJO2G2ETOOH2A6D6G6/side+stripe+jackal+1-1.jpg Animals - Glowing eyes This beautiful side-striped jackal appeared in the long grass in the late afternoon sun. He played hard to get so we never got too close to him. But he did pause once or twice in the grass so I managed to take a couple of photos of him.   Taken in June 2015 in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437928274022-284ANGCWRPR65ZSUJEHO/side+stripe+jackal+2-1.jpg Animals - Side stripe jackal Taken in June 2015 in the Okavango Delta, Botswana.   This beautiful side-striped jackal appeared in the long grass in the late afternoon sun. He played hard to get so we never got too close to him. But he did pause once or twice in the grass so I managed to take a couple of photos of him.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437928580462-GG72X6RNEOLWRY3YCR4L/leopard+6-1.jpg Animals - Spot me! Taken in June 2015 in the Okavango Delta, Botswana.   This beautiful female leopard just came wandering out of the bush as we were driving through the area early one morning. She was quite happy to check out our vehicle - and even posed for a few photos! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437928572800-9Y6SEDJDSYLAEN82I7NQ/fish+eagle+1-1.jpg Animals - Did you get my good side? Taken in June 2015 in the Okavango Delta, Botswana.   This majestic fish eagle was perched above one of the channels in the Delta looking for its dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437928577347-CJTB7OS6WFWOHMSDOBUE/owl+1.jpg Animals - Shhhh, I'm trying to sleep Taken in June 2015 in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. This African Eagle Owl was fast asleep in a tree. I'm not sure how our guide spotted it, but he did - and I'm so glad. What a beautiful bird. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437928572489-PBKQ8JSWJ8F29MF398FH/goshawk+2-1.jpg Animals - Are you lookin' at me?! Taken in June 2015 in the Chobe National Park, Botswana.   This goshawk was sunning itself in the morning sun - perched on a branch, bold as brass, for everyone to see. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1522696592544-0NGYMLVRM5QB4SP0NE3V/lions+2+morning+7.jpg Animals - Rise and shine Taken in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania, January 2011. This sleepy lion was just getting up from his perch in the grass on the crater floor early in the morning. I think he was licking his lips thinking of his breakfast meal! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562767649720-RPWTFPXAMNW7OY61QQU5/ellies+morning+4.jpg Animals - Out for a morning stroll Taken in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania in January 2011. The morning light in Africa is beautiful and it was no exception in the Ngorongoro Crater. It was also good to get there early to beat the crowds! This lone ellie was strolling along in the early morning, seemingly oblivious to its wonderful surroundings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562767648929-H5D5BSTCQ7DO8PEL06XI/monkeys4-1.jpg Animals - All mine! Taken in Bali, Indonesia in June 2014. There are so many monkeys in Bali! This particular one was being looked after by some carers who looked after the temple surroundings (where the monkey lived). So this one was lucky enough to be given a big chunk of mango, which he was keeping all to himself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562767653535-P5SD799EHITLWA0A04GP/uluwatu+monkey+6-1.jpg Animals - Contemplating my water beard Taken in Bali, Indonesia in June 2014. This cheeky monkey had stolen a water bottle from an unsuspecting tourist and had enjoyed a quick drink before I snapped this photo. You can see his little water beard! I think he’s thinking ‘I should have nabbed more bottles!’ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316369582-PTTBUQ834J6LYF9276JK/flamingo+1+copy.jpg Animals - Did you get my best side? Taken in the Havana Botanical Gardens, Cuba, January 2018. The weather was a bit dull and rainy, so the locals were trying to keep warm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316369068-87OBKJM8RO2A4X9B64X0/flamingo+2+copy.jpg Animals - Look at my reflection! Taken in the Havana Botanical Gardens, Cuba, January 2018. Flamingoes are such posers … even on a dull day, they are bright and exotic. Loved these guys hanging out in a corner of the gardens. http://claireheavenphotography.com/home-gallery daily 0.75 2025-02-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427559601106-MSFBOHWNB5FWYTD8S1F1/Africa+2.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427559601106-MSFBOHWNB5FWYTD8S1F1/Africa+2.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427559605554-070TWGFHACR43JT55XRL/empire+state+building+27.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551623724316-8LXYT2IWCA1NWYXWLFI6/side+stripe+jackal+1-1.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551623803776-A05XHN62OAW83H1NYQ5L/Canada+-+Pitt+Meadows+1.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427559608309-WDOJZDH7K7AB63PK3B6N/far+east+1-1.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427559613002-SUXYS90GBZHYPKW7NDAT/UK+-+Lake+District+-+lake+view+-+Copy.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551623755915-MST4IH454I3S399FI8DO/owl+1.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427559613635-5L060WROO63W1VO1OEJ1/stone+town+4.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551623827286-9J1EQV8XVT7WBOEWKDLM/roses+9+-+britannia.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610288368573-NGS53MKOXVIY47H8JGSN/dead+vlei+23.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610288390371-SG9I3ZPEHZI5RQ91UJJJ/best+5.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1739120225244-KH36IRI1WJ5VNN7HBS8G/20241231_111138+copy.jpg Home gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1739120263841-2LT34MSV9DX30BYSZ0XD/sorrento+sunset+4.jpg Home gallery http://claireheavenphotography.com/middle-east-asia daily 0.75 2026-02-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052183764-OCM6NI6BC4XGPVPBF42I/damascus+spices+1.jpg Middle East / Asia - Spicey! Taken at Damascus Market, Damascus, Syria, in November 2010. Syria was an amazing country, and I'm so glad I was able to visit it before the war broke out. I had always wanted to go to Damascus, and although it was very interesting, I did find the city fairly unfriendly - and certainly unwelcoming to women. Maybe tensions were already bubbling when I was there, but I was glad to leave and move on to see the rest of the country. But we did manage to spend a bit of time in one of the main markets in Damascus. There were many things on sale - but of course, one of the main things: spices! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052183764-OCM6NI6BC4XGPVPBF42I/damascus+spices+1.jpg Middle East / Asia - Spicey! Taken at Damascus Market, Damascus, Syria, in November 2010. Syria was an amazing country, and I'm so glad I was able to visit it before the war broke out. I had always wanted to go to Damascus, and although it was very interesting, I did find the city fairly unfriendly - and certainly unwelcoming to women. Maybe tensions were already bubbling when I was there, but I was glad to leave and move on to see the rest of the country. But we did manage to spend a bit of time in one of the main markets in Damascus. There were many things on sale - but of course, one of the main things: spices! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000663591-3IXN31JQN6PVVNTLF0LQ/mosque+5.jpg Middle East / Asia - Conversations in the courtyard Taken in Damascus, Syria in November 2010.   This is the main courtyard to the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. What struck me as slightly at odds with the beautiful building and religious surroundings was the casual conversations that people were having in the courtyard. Young people sat in groups laughing, their voices echoing off the building's facades. It was nice in a way to see the modern take place alongside the old. I suspect it is nothing like this now. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000666957-RL8ZCM7TPKW1R0CR3HN3/palmyra+-+baal+temple+3b.jpg Middle East / Asia - A temple no more Taken at Palmyra, Syria in November 2010.   I am so glad I was able to see Palmyra before it was destroyed. It was a huge ancient site with temples, columns, theatres, marketplaces and more. This is the Temple of Baal (also known as Bel), which was a wonderful example of a building being reused in its lifetime. It first started as a pre-Roman temple and then was rebuilt and used as a Greco-Roman temple. It then got a new life as a Christian church before finally becoming a tourist attraction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000667330-70IWFL85NTUQOER6O0EF/palmyra+-+colonnade+7.jpg Middle East / Asia - Cheeky monkeys Taken in Palmyra in November 2010.   I thought this was a hilarious moment and I'm so glad I captured it. We were walking along the main columned promenade, when this motorcycle came roaring past. The guard standing by the columns just watched as the cheeky monkeys rode past. Well, what could he do?! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052185244-TUIZO2ZXBKHATFK5CDL0/hamma+waterwheels+3.jpg Middle East / Asia - Water wheels Taken at Hama, Syria, in November 2010. We only stopped for about an hour at Hama to see the ancient water wheels - but it was a glorious afternoon and I managed to take this photo of one of the water wheels along the river. Hama is one of the many cities that has been badly damaged by the war. I don't think these water wheels exist any longer. I'm glad I got to see them before it was too late. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562785762917-I5XDOUTTQXNB7QTKT4S7/Amman+citadel+1.jpg Middle East / Asia - Amman's beginnings #1 Taken in Amman in February 2005. These are some of the ruins of the Amman citadel, located on one of the seven hills that originally made up Amman. The ruins now overlook the sprawling city. This is the Temple of Hercules, dating from the 2nd century. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562767328998-8SRULQQOP49ZLAIO99WM/Amman+citadel+3.jpg Middle East / Asia - Amman's beginnings #2 Taken in Amman in February 2005. These are some of the ruins of the Amman citadel, located on one of the seven hills that originally made up Amman. The ruins now overlook the sprawling city. This is a Byzantine church, from approximately 550AD. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562767322066-6CSVR01YBIRW8HSCQXJ0/Amman+citadel+2.jpg Middle East / Asia - Amman's beginnings #3 Taken in Amman in February 2005. These are some of the ruins of the Amman citadel, located on one of the seven hills that originally made up Amman. The ruins now overlook the sprawling city. This is a Byzantine church, from approximately 550AD. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1522696851490-PEIENOQCSLKS3N3DJ0YB/petra+1.jpg Middle East / Asia - Indy, where are you?! Taken at Petra, Jordan in February 2005. This site is everything you imagine it to be. It really does feel like Indiana Jones could come leaping out from the building! It is definitely one of the most amazing places I have visited. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451987666909-236HPPP3OGLVMHMZGPVO/rice+fields+2.jpg Middle East / Asia - Rice fields of Bali Taken outside Ubud, Bali in June 2014. While I wasn't that impressed with Ubud (too commercial and overrun with tourists!), the surrounding rice fields were beautiful. It was lovely to see the lush green rice shoots against the blue sky. Very peaceful.     https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562767330883-NC4PEDE94YQEN81BT1A6/rice+fields+4-1.jpg Middle East / Asia - Seeing double Taken in Ubud, Bali in June 2014. The rice fields around Ubud provide the perfect opportunity for reflecting back the skyline. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052180210-0J2Q4CDVBELVFP7AV64Q/far+east+1-1.jpg Middle East / Asia - Let there be light! Taken at the Chinese Market in Singapore, in June 2014. I spent a couple of weekends in Singapore, visiting friends. I really liked Singapore, apart from the heat! I snapped this photo as we were walking through the Chinese Market. A lot of what they sold was tourist junk, but I really loved the colours and designs of these lamp shades. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000662341-UUWAI6F47JGG9SASQQ0Z/gardens+by+bay+view+2.jpg Middle East / Asia - View from up high Taken in Singapore in June 2014.   This is a view of the Gardens by the Bay and the bay beyond from the Marina Bay Sands hotel. It was quite a humid afternoon but lovely to be up high and look down on the Gardens that we had visited earlier in the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471631156066-KA6CASTZZFIPQG37VAOI/garden+65.jpg Middle East / Asia - Tall Trees Taken in Singapore in June 2014.   This is a view of the Supertree Grove and the Domes in the Gardens by the Bay. I love this view because it looks so futuristic and I also love the reflection of the 'trees'.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471631155769-FM8DCXCOC02L8QNDB2SN/garden+6.jpg Middle East / Asia - Standing Tall Taken in Singapore in June 2014.   This is a closer view of the Supertree Grove in the Gardens by the Bay. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000661460-7YK2UQN92IJ3RU822HQA/garden+38.jpg Middle East / Asia - Orchids galore Taken in Singapore in June 2014.   This is a view from within the Cloud Forest Dome at the Gardens by the Bay. There were so many different types of flowers - especially orchids - that can grow in all types of forests. Well worth a visit. And great for photography! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471631169290-AD63YOM99EN0GBXD9CIB/singapore+bay+1.jpg Middle East / Asia - Ships Ahoy! Taken in Singapore in June 2014.   This is a view of the bay from Marina Bay Sands. Lots of big and small ships out there - the afternoon sun making the white and red of the boats stand out against the blue water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1769950052044-9MQOTPZ681RSRBNMKNWJ/night+4+copy.jpg Middle East / Asia - Beacons of Light Taken in Hoi Ann in January 2019. The sun had set and the lights were starting to come on in town. These colourful lanterns took on an extra glow as they started to light up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1770718410150-2VW889PZSK7C2EWQ5NAZ/Jade+Mountain+Temple+12a+copy.jpg Middle East / Asia - Reverence Taken at the Jade Mountain Temple in Hanoi, Vietnam in January 2019. There are so many temples dotted about Hanoi, but I especially liked this one framed by the trees. It had a real sense of growing up entwined with nature. http://claireheavenphotography.com/africa daily 0.75 2021-01-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052116517-IMVUX659L9TKTJPXNTIP/Africa+2.jpg Africa - Red gold #1 Taken in Sossusvlei, Namibia in September 2013. We drove into the Sossusvlei - the giant sand dunes of Namibia's Namib desert - just before sunrise. I found it surprising that we were in the middle of nowhere, but there was a paved road cutting through the main dunes. We watched as the sun came up and bathed the dunes in light, casting interesting shadows over their shapes. An amazing place - full of light, shadow, colour, silence and above all, beauty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052116517-IMVUX659L9TKTJPXNTIP/Africa+2.jpg Africa - Red gold #1 Taken in Sossusvlei, Namibia in September 2013. We drove into the Sossusvlei - the giant sand dunes of Namibia's Namib desert - just before sunrise. I found it surprising that we were in the middle of nowhere, but there was a paved road cutting through the main dunes. We watched as the sun came up and bathed the dunes in light, casting interesting shadows over their shapes. An amazing place - full of light, shadow, colour, silence and above all, beauty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052129978-7IMPL5EHAFI7U2RY6JZ8/dunes+6.jpg Africa - Red gold # 2 Taken in Sossusvlei, Namibia in September 2013. We drove into the Sossusvlei - the giant sand dunes of Namibia's Namib desert - just before sunrise. I found it surprising that we were in the middle of nowhere, but there was a paved road cutting through the main dunes. We watched as the sun came up and bathed the dunes in light, casting interesting shadows over their shapes. An amazing place - full of light, shadow, colour, silence and above all, beauty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052131649-4MA5U1HJB8KT9WN77GNZ/loge+view+1.jpg Africa - Red gold #3 Taken in Sossusvlei, Namibia in September 2013. We drove into the Sossusvlei - the giant sand dunes of Namibia's Namib desert - just before sunrise. I found it surprising that we were in the middle of nowhere, but there was a paved road cutting through the main dunes. We watched as the sun came up and bathed the dunes in light, casting interesting shadows over their shapes. An amazing place - full of light, shadow, colour, silence and above all, beauty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562769834334-A0AHPSCPVK03B1JC5JJB/sand+dunes+2.jpg Africa - Red gold #4 Taken in Sossusvlei, Namibia in June 2015. This was my second visit to Sossusvlei - the giant sand dunes of Namibia's Namib desert. This is one of my favourite places that I’ve visited in the world! The colours, light and shadows are truly spectacular. As with my first trip, we travelled down the paved road just before sunrise and watched as the sun came up, bathing the dunes in light, casting interesting shadows over their shapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562769833305-D691GQJOF4GNWUDZJYWA/sand+dunes+3.jpg Africa - Red gold #5 Taken in Sossusvlei, Namibia in June 2015. This was my second visit to Sossusvlei - the giant sand dunes of Namibia's Namib desert. This is one of my favourite places that I’ve visited in the world! The colours, light and shadows are truly spectacular. As with my first trip, we travelled down the paved road just before sunrise and watched as the sun came up, bathing the dunes in light, casting interesting shadows over their shapes. I particularly liked this photo as you can see someone has walked in the sand towards the dune. No one is visible now; just their footprints. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471628689629-9XRZHEOYXCTVWZWXWJVZ/big+daddy+7.jpg Africa - Sossusvlei Taken at Sosussvlei in the Namib Desert, part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park of Namibia, in Sept 2013.   This is one of those special places. The light and colours are amazing. And if you get there early, when there aren't a lot of people around, the silence is complete. You can just enjoy the scenery and watch the colours change as the sun rises over the dunes.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052126918-O9A6NPR29ILY6FTQI4LN/dunes+3.jpg Africa - The beginning of the day #1 Taken in Sossusvlei, Namibia in September 2013. We drove into the Sossusvlei - the giant sand dunes of Namibia's Namib desert - just before sunrise. I found it surprising that we were in the middle of nowhere, but there was a paved road cutting through the main dunes. We watched as the sun came up - a breath-taking display of colour. . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052128147-TUMZAEHVJ1WC910BEHI3/dunes+sunrise+1.jpg Africa - The beginning of the day #2 Taken in Sossusvlei, Namibia in September 2013. We drove into the Sossusvlei - the giant sand dunes of Namibia's Namib desert - just before sunrise. I found it surprising that we were in the middle of nowhere, but there was a paved road cutting through the main dunes. We watched as the sun came up - a breath-taking display of colour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437930001822-HAXT20SSVLY2XUJRVRES/dead+vlei+19.jpg Africa - Dead Vlei series #1 Taken in June 2015 in Dead Vlei, Sossousvlei, Namibia   While the weather wasn't great, I spent a fantastic couple of hours in Dead Vlei one morning in June. It is a stark and atmospheric place - and one of the most memorable I've been to on my travels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437930003287-KD5CCRKS1BHB99E99DZU/dead+vlei+23.jpg Africa - Dead Vlei series #2 Taken in June 2015 in Dead Vlei, Sossousvlei, Namibia   While the weather wasn't great, I spent a fantastic couple of hours in Dead Vlei one morning in June. It is a stark and atmospheric place - and one of the most memorable I've been to on my travels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437930005821-3YSGFFBQGA2S1LIJ49P9/dead+vlei+26.jpg Africa - Dead Vlei series #3 Taken in June 2015 in Dead Vlei, Sossousvlei, Namibia   While the weather wasn't great, I spent a fantastic couple of hours in Dead Vlei one morning in June. It is a stark and atmospheric place - and one of the most memorable I've been to on my travels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437930006622-CVQTPVBQ735RR1JPBTCL/dead+vlei+30.jpg Africa - Dead Vlei series #4 Taken in June 2015 in Dead Vlei, Sossousvlei, Namibia   While the weather wasn't great, I spent a fantastic couple of hours in Dead Vlei one morning in June. It is a stark and atmospheric place - and one of the most memorable I've been to on my travels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437930011147-K1B8BSBMYM03YWSU244N/dead+vlei+31.jpg Africa - Dead Vlei series #5 Taken in June 2015 in Dead Vlei, Sossousvlei, Namibia   While the weather wasn't great, I spent a fantastic couple of hours in Dead Vlei one morning in June. It is a stark and atmospheric place - and one of the most memorable I've been to on my travels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437930013407-D6YJDF1XWABY8S3J6LUJ/dead+vlei+40.jpg Africa - Dead Vlei series #6 Taken in June 2015 in Dead Vlei, Sossousvlei, Namibia   While the weather wasn't great, I spent a fantastic couple of hours in Dead Vlei one morning in June. It is a stark and atmospheric place - and one of the most memorable I've been to on my travels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1437930016127-W1INTIDEM9K8FYT847LL/dead+vlei+43.jpg Africa - Dead Vlei series #7 Taken in June 2015 in Dead Vlei, Sossousvlei, Namibia   While the weather wasn't great, I spent a fantastic couple of hours in Dead Vlei one morning in June. It is a stark and atmospheric place - and one of the most memorable I've been to on my travels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451998190389-JO6CKIG3NF8XFXLW625G/swakopmund+21.jpg Africa - Hypnotic Taken at Swakupmund, Namibia, in Sept 2013. The sea at Swakupmund was a thing to behold. These white foaming waves came crashing onto shore, relentless in their sound. I stood by the pier watching the waves for ages, memorised by the patterns the water made. I left only when the fog rolled in obscuring my view. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052136395-BYEGXGNQNZOPLA8O4E8N/Morocco+-+Marrakesh+-+Ben+Youssef+Madrassa+%28university%29+1.jpg Africa - Hallowed halls #1 Taken at Ben Youssef Madrasa (Islamic college), Marrakesh, Morocco, in December 2004. I spent a few days in Marrakesh in December 2004 - I didn't find the city hugely friendly, but the architecture was beautiful. This particular building used to be an Islamic college but is now a tourist attraction. It was finished in 1565 but has been well preserved. This is the main courtyard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052137690-MR6S971L4SJCHQZ6ZG7S/Morocco+-+Marrakesh+-+Ben+Youssef+Madrassa+%28university%29+2.jpg Africa - Hallowed halls #2 Taken at Ben Youssef Madrasa (Islamic college), Marrakesh, Morocco, in December 2004. I spent a few days in Marrakesh in December 2004 - I didn't find the city hugely friendly, but the architecture was beautiful. This particular building used to be an Islamic college but is now a tourist attraction. It was finished in 1565 but has been well preserved. This photo is taken from one of the dormitory windows, looking down into the main courtyard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052138200-RC55R8Q9BP5MEAMJ55OO/Morocco+-+Marrakesh+-+Menara+Gardens+1.jpg Africa - Menara Pavilion Taken at Menara Gardens, Marrakesh, in December 2004. One of my favourite photos ... It was afternoon when we arrived in Menara Gardens. It had been sunny but the clouds gradually drifted in so that there was only a little light showing over the Atlas Mountains in the distance. The water in front of the pavilion was so still that it perfectly mirrored the stormy skies above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562769848045-BBFC0A3SUVSNR4VCFJ7S/temple+4-1.jpg Africa - Guarding the sanctuary Taken at the Temple of Philae in December 2014. I’ve now been to this amazing temple twice, and it continues to impress. Not only is it a wonderful temple, it is an engineering feat - having been rescued from beneath the water of Lake Nasser and reassembled on dry land. This is the entrance to the main temple, being guarded by a rather smiley chap. Think he was hoping for some money! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562769846072-BDGRJ53KZ77IG8PAY5F6/temple+3-1.jpg Africa - A door with a view Taken at the Temple of Philae in December 2014. I’ve now been to this amazing temple twice, and it continues to impress. Not only is it a wonderful temple, it is an engineering feat - having been rescued from beneath the water of Lake Nasser and reassembled on dry land. This is a beautiful archway / door that looks onto rocks and water outside the temple. This is also the wall that has the last known example of written hieroglyphs in Egypt - apparently! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562769851958-98DBU1OS6GYWAC5I5KZX/temple+5-1.jpg Africa - A doorway of shadows and light Taken on Elephantine Island, Aswan, Egypt in December 2014. There are a number of ruins at the south end of Elephantine Island in Aswan. This was part of a larger construction but I really liked the way the columns cast shadows on the floor, with the Mausoleum of Aga Khan seen on the hill in the distance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287473673-CUIHMU7COTMGR4ALFKPJ/Cairo+camel.jpg Africa - Did you get my good side? Taken in Giza, Egypt in December 2014 This camel was taking a rest from the tourist hourdes but was quite happy to sit and pose for photos - although he was very vocal about it! http://claireheavenphotography.com/people-2 daily 0.75 2026-02-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427127177724-N815WG73O2FU25CJIJSW/market+5.jpg People - Play time Taken at Lalibela Market, Ethiopia, in January 2011. This little boy caught my eye as he was playing in the piles of grain at the Saturday Market in Lalibela. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427127177724-N815WG73O2FU25CJIJSW/market+5.jpg People - Play time Taken at Lalibela Market, Ethiopia, in January 2011. This little boy caught my eye as he was playing in the piles of grain at the Saturday Market in Lalibela. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800055296-V4DLDYXATIPWHCX70R78/debre+berhan+selassie+%28church%29+2.jpg People - Guardian Taken in Gondar, Ethiopia in January 2011. One of the few photos I was able to take of the many guardians or 'watchers' that seemed to be at all the Ethiopian religious sites. This one was keeping an eye on the tourists at Debre Birhan Selassie Church in Gondar. But he seemed to be 'ok' with me pointing a camera in his direction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800061640-BMTG6ONII8DHCAFUFVXV/masai+village+4a+-+moses+%28chiefs+son%29+jumping.jpg People - Jump! Taken at a Massai village in the Massai Mara, Kenya in February 2011. We visited a Massai village one morning and they put on a little 'jumping' show for us. This is Moses, the village chief's son. He spoke quite good English and showed us round his village before showing off his jumping skills. I'm sure it was all a show, but I found it moving nonetheless. Something about their pride, love of the land and guttural music really resonated with me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800061089-42AY3P217YZ64AF1YPCY/masai+village+10+-+women.jpg People - Colourful stance Taken at a Massai village in the Massai Mara, Kenya in February 2011. This is one of the women in the Massai village we visited one morning. None of the women spoke English, but they were happy to come and greet us with a little song. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800104313-AY8LCUTQEC3EQH04I6IN/woman+carrying+firewood.jpg People - My daily chore Taken in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2011. We met this woman coming down the hill as we were driving up. She was collecting branches to sell as well as use for firewood. She did this chore every day to feed her family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800055727-8V7L5NFNC715DFF79FZB/Italy+-+Venice+-+gondola+man+taking+a+break.jpg People - Taking a break Taken in Venice, Italy in October 2007. This gondolier caught my eye because he was out of his usual element. It seemed odd to see him out of his boat and reading a paper. I love that you can see his hat but not his face. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800050587-EOBXOSFM0JF6C5FZ9FXP/best+5.jpg People - Love's embrace Taken at my cousin's wedding, August 2013. I love this photo of my cousin and her husband - taken during their wedding dance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1549826055764-JIALK9GLKR8CXYWWPZ53/Vietnam+-+Hoi+An+1-1.jpg People - Buy a pig? Taken in Hoi An, Vietnam in January 2019. This woman was selling whistling pigs, ahead of the Lunar New Year and the beginning of the Year of the Pig. There are lots of street sellers in Hoi An, but this woman seemed to particularly enjoy what she was doing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1549826067655-9FPZX5UVUJW8RU6YWI3P/Vietnam+-+Hoi+An+2.jpg People - Flower power Taken in Hoi An, Vietnam in January 2019. The main market in Hoi An has many stalls. This woman stood out for me as she had the brightest flowers but seemed to be completely unimpressed with them! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1770718444673-ECXCPBZXVXWVXWRD4BGV/river+3+copy.jpg People - Sleeping Taken in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in January 2019. This baby was deep asleep amongst the hub-bub of the promenade by the Mekong river. Not a care in the world; just glad to have some shade to snooze in. http://claireheavenphotography.com/gallery-uk daily 0.75 2026-02-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085731766-V21YHDM6TZGLCQVB65IL/cardiff+-+castle+1+copy.jpg UK - Standing tall and proud Taken in Cardiff in April 2023. A glorious morning at Cardiff Castle, after a very wet day. The air was fresh and the reflections crisp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085731766-V21YHDM6TZGLCQVB65IL/cardiff+-+castle+1+copy.jpg UK - Standing tall and proud Taken in Cardiff in April 2023. A glorious morning at Cardiff Castle, after a very wet day. The air was fresh and the reflections crisp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085732394-WH8KHU5OH2WSDHTYBSII/cardiff+-+stones+1+copy.jpg UK - Who put that stone here? #1 Taken in Cardiff in April 2023. A wonderful little stone circle - Gorsedd Stone Circle - right in the middle of Bute Park in Cardiff. Lovely to have the stones and the park more or less to myself on a quiet Sunday morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085734897-CI95X8HI1M141CVSL8TC/cardiff+-+stones+2+copy.jpg UK - Who put that stone here? #2 Taken in Cardiff in April 2023. A wonderful little stone circle - Gorsedd Stone Circle - right in the middle of Bute Park in Cardiff. Lovely to have the stones and the park more or less to myself on a quiet Sunday morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085734269-DPW1UYQT7DDDAKXWIV8U/folkestone+2+copy.jpg UK - It's all in the name Taken in Folkestone in September 2022. The wonderful, quirky and creative Folkestone … and a photo of the harbour arm and sign that says it all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085736333-RI1TXDIDSVLC2ES145IB/folkestone+3+copy.jpg UK - Huts with a view Taken in Folkestone in September 2022. The colourful beach huts alongside the promenade by Folkestone beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1709907279613-4BYPD923PKZEKFN14NQ4/beach+1+copy.jpg UK - Breathtaking view Taken in Folkestone in September 2022. One of the many wonderful views in Folkestone, looking down from the top promenade to the sea below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1770724671839-BNIVMKK5FZHQTKQPXT0K/20251225_080621+copy.jpg UK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085737619-8NEX44HXZASLJRVHDCYB/folkestone+4+copy.jpg UK - I'll just stay here until the tide comes in Taken in Folkestone in October 2022. Folkestone harbour at low tide, with the ‘lighthouse’ (serving champagne of course!) in the background. This view never gets old. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085738443-A5IGFA2Q1S68WMVYWOPU/folkestone+5+copy.jpg UK - Step off here Taken in Folkestone in October 2022. The Parade Steps lead from The Bayle, Folkestone’s old town area, down to the sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085740805-2SNR7NILCI6T2KAVGQ6A/folkestone+7+copy.jpg UK - Am I showing enough colour? Taken in Folkestone in November 2022. Folkestone has a real quirky, creative side. This is one of the more colourful buildings, which catches the eye from every angle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085740296-5S3UFVFU76U71EQIH9RL/folkestone+6+copy.jpg UK - Sunrise silhouettes Taken in Folkestone in October 2022. The late fall and winter months can produce some stunning sunrises and sunsets in Folkestone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085742577-OX4013FZZT3GUNSADXZR/folkestone+8+copy.jpg UK - Disappearing sun Taken in Folkestone in November 2022. The late fall and winter months can produce some stunning sunrises and sunsets in Folkestone. This is a sunset photo taken down by the seafront, near the harbour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085744034-L7YVTS5LJ5JOX148KQLO/folkestone+10+copy.jpg UK - Strolling under the twinkly lights Taken in Folkestone in December 2022. An evening stroll up the Old High Street under the twinkling Christmas lights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719670329-2BK6FVPTYATSARGOL1EV/coastal+path+1.jpg UK - The coast with the most Taken in Mawgan Porth, North Cornwall, UK, in May 2016.   This is a gorgeous stretch of coast in North Cornwall on a beautiful Spring morning. The path shown is the coastal path that runs through North Cornwall. I could have spent all morning looking at this view ... I almost did! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719654887-OJ46IVTBGGAB2VJQS2CN/beach+2-1.jpg UK - Whitstable series - #1 Taken in Whitstable, UK, in May 2016.   Whitstable is a little town on the north coast of Kent. One of the most loveliest little seaside towns I've visited in the UK. This day was warm and sunny and not too busy. A perfect day for photos and strolling along by the sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719658620-936TIWE12SRSVMXVWOWN/beach+3-1.jpg UK - Whitstable series - #2 Taken in Whitstable, UK, in May 2016.   Whitstable is a little town on the north coast of Kent. One of the most loveliest little seaside towns I've visited in the UK. This day was warm and sunny and not too busy. A perfect day for photos and strolling along by the sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719666026-H7GYNR21WNVX4U21AHXC/beach+7-1.jpg UK - Whitstable series - #3 Taken in Whitstable, UK, in May 2016.   Whitstable is a little town on the north coast of Kent. One of the most loveliest little seaside towns I've visited in the UK. This day was warm and sunny and not too busy. A perfect day for photos and strolling along by the sea. This is a photo of the wonderful colourful beach huts overlooking the beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719663632-PK9TCEPQHAK5EVNL7BFD/beach+6-1.jpg UK - Whitstable series - #4 Taken in Whitstable, UK, in May 2016.   Whitstable is a little town on the north coast of Kent. One of the most loveliest little seaside towns I've visited in the UK. This day was warm and sunny and not too busy. A perfect day for photos and strolling along by the sea. This is a photo of the wonderful colourful beach huts overlooking the beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719660766-UWIJPUX25EDU7SF2URYR/beach+5-1.jpg UK - Whitstable series - #5 Taken in Whitstable, UK, in May 2016.   Whitstable is a little town on the north coast of Kent. One of the most loveliest little seaside towns I've visited in the UK. This day was warm and sunny and not too busy. A perfect day for photos and strolling along by the sea. This is a photo of the wonderful colourful beach huts overlooking the beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719660098-NFKTXFACDHBF2GLBMGPP/beach+4-1.jpg UK - Whitstable series - #6 Taken in Whitstable, UK, in May 2016.   Whitstable is a little town on the north coast of Kent. One of the most loveliest little seaside towns I've visited in the UK. This day was warm and sunny and not too busy. A perfect day for photos and strolling along by the sea. This is a photo of the wonderful colourful beach huts overlooking the beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719667722-2L6J8FJUXLY7P5UXR1KF/beach+9a-1.jpg UK - Whitstable series - #7 Taken in Whitstable, UK, in May 2016.   Whitstable is a little town on the north coast of Kent. One of the most loveliest little seaside towns I've visited in the UK. This day was warm and sunny and not too busy. A perfect day for photos and strolling along by the sea. Or enjoying the sunshine by reading a good book.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719668019-FF9NRWMCM1C58RKL4TT2/beach+10-1.jpg UK - Whitstable series - #8 Taken in Whitstable, UK, in May 2016.   Whitstable is a little town on the north coast of Kent. One of the most loveliest little seaside towns I've visited in the UK. This day was warm and sunny and not too busy. A perfect day for photos and strolling along by the sea. Or lying in the sunshine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719666538-XL0BWU7M77QCJI06C171/beach+8-1.jpg UK - Whitstable series - #9 Taken in Whitstable, UK, in May 2016.   Whitstable is a little town on the north coast of Kent. One of the most loveliest little seaside towns I've visited in the UK. This day was warm and sunny and not too busy. A perfect day for photos and strolling along by the sea. Or just taking in the view. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800518743-PRS20GXJV665WCB7RIV2/UK+-+Lake+District+-+lake+view+-+Copy.jpg UK - A dock with a view Taken in the Lake District, UK, in April 2008. I went on a week-long photography course to the Lake District in April 2008. While I wasn't that taken with the course or the instructors, we did manage to see some of the beautiful scenery in the Lake District. This photo was taken on a visit to one of the many lakes dotted about, with a backdrop of the 'mountains' (hills to a Canadian!) - while the weather wasn't great, I still really like the photo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800545201-JHXBP0S9F91JX0HJPYC7/UK+-+Lake+District+-+quarry+1+-+Copy.jpg UK - Shadows and light Taken in the Lake District, UK, in April 2008. I went on a week-long photography course to the Lake District in April 2008. While I wasn't that taken with the course or the instructors, we did manage to see some of the beautiful scenery in the Lake District. This photo was taken at one of the old shale quarries. We were lucky to get sun that afternoon so had a chance to play with light and shadows. I love the different shapes of the shale in this photo too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990466399-WK5MI6DO9OKTW11W7JE1/UK+-+Bedfordshire+-+Willington+sunflowers+2.jpg UK - Star sunflower Taken in Bedfordshire, UK in August 2009.   It was a bright, if not sunny day as we walked through the fields near where my friend lives. We came across these sunflowers and one in particular seemed to cry out to have its photo taken. Voila! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000591142-XUV5TRNOTG5KF3JNBT3O/UK+-+Bedfordshire+-+Willington+Dovecote.jpg UK - Dove's house Taken in Bedfordshire, UK in August 2009.   This is the Willington Dovecote, from the 16th century. It was a warm summer's day, but not without clouds (as usual in the UK!). The doves took flight and swooped round the top of the building. It was lovely to see that the doves were still using it after all this time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471632570026-4M8PAE4KU3238WTIUBJJ/UK+-+Bedfordshire+-+Upper+Caldecote+9.jpg UK - Poppies in the field Taken in Bedfordshire in August 2010.   These poppies were standing tall amongst all the wheat and grass, undaunted that they were outnumbered. Just soaking up the sunshine without a care in the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1464719656641-NWY0S7HBEKY2JAJJ1RCP/ashridge+67.jpg UK - Beautiful bluebells Taken at Ashridge Estate, in the UK in May 2016.   Every Spring, the UK forests erupt in bluebells. Ashridge Estate is no exception. It is a National Trust maintained estate with many walks through carpets of bluebells. A wonderful UK outing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1756909206257-DLDLXQ9Q62EQ2404BBBR/Hastings+-+mural+2+copy.jpg UK - Nature versus nature Taken in Hastings, UK in April 2019. I cam across this wonderful mural in the Old Town of Hastings. The mural was facing off to a beautiful old tree in a little courtyard. Magic. http://claireheavenphotography.com/reflections daily 0.75 2024-03-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800290496-XKEIB3E898DII5LJF6A0/Morocco+-+Marrakesh+-+Menara+Gardens+1.jpg Reflections - Menara Pavilion, Marrakesh One of my favourite photos ... It was afternoon when we arrived in Menara Gardens. It had been sunny but the clouds gradually drifted in so that there was only a little light showing over the Atlas Mountains in the distance. The water in front of the pavilion was so still that it perfectly mirrored the stormy skies above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800290496-XKEIB3E898DII5LJF6A0/Morocco+-+Marrakesh+-+Menara+Gardens+1.jpg Reflections - Menara Pavilion, Marrakesh One of my favourite photos ... It was afternoon when we arrived in Menara Gardens. It had been sunny but the clouds gradually drifted in so that there was only a little light showing over the Atlas Mountains in the distance. The water in front of the pavilion was so still that it perfectly mirrored the stormy skies above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800271424-GB5EQQGDHUCLJZLQD5DM/reflections+1.jpg Reflections - What's that behind you? Taken in the old castle district in Prague, this is a quirky take on reflections. I love these types of mirrors that throw back distorted images. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000618518-5RQKSIYAXYXAK7KP8Q1R/sideviewmirror2.jpg Reflections - Who's behind us? Taken in Oregon, USA, in August 2014.   I took this photo on our journey through Oregon. It was a beautful afternoon and as I looked in the sideview mirror of our car, I could see the mountains and road behind us perfectly laid out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800598649-B2KLHJFTVEU2U0H0N6EX/boat+reflections+1.jpg Reflections - Water reflections Ethiopia I have always loved the water and particularly love the way reflections of colourful buildings and boats change and merge to create impressionist-like paintings. This photograph was taken on Lake Tana in Ethiopia. We were sailing back from visiting some of the monasteries dotted about the lake. This small colourful boat passed by us and its reflections looked like pools of paint in the water.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000617791-V7GO5Y1GPERZ5HOL5FVN/London+-+Thames+River+-+reflections+2.jpg Reflections - London reflections series #1 Taken on the River Thames in April 2010.   I love the water and I'm fascinated by the images that are created by the rippling water and the reflections of the surrounding buildings and landscape. This series is of a particularly sunny day when the colourful buildings surrounding the Thames created almost impressionist water paintings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000617393-00K5FAATEQDVV0HM65IX/London+-+Thames+River+-+reflections+4.jpg Reflections - London reflections series #2 Taken on the River Thames in April 2010.   I love the water and I'm fascinated by the images that are created by the rippling water and the reflections of the surrounding buildings and landscape. This series is of a particularly sunny day when the colourful buildings surrounding the Thames created almost impressionist water paintings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1644760830642-19NAHOO7MTXMGKZP9R59/CW+-+water+reflections+1+%28CH%29+copy.jpg Reflections - London reflections series #3 Taken in Canary Wharf in October 2021. I love the water and I'm fascinated by the images that are created by the rippling water and the reflections of the surrounding buildings and landscape. I continue to capture the reflections of the buildings on water. The images feel like impressionist water paintings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1644760831647-J6X1TG0FQWD2Z68M80RZ/CW+-+building+reflections+1+%28CH%29+copy.jpg Reflections - What's that in the window? Taken in Canary Wharf in October 2021. There are so many glass buildings in Canary Wharf and when it’s sunny, you have buildings reflected on buildings - creating some great images. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710077774418-HV5Q3Y6ZX9EJPQFWQAVH/London+building+reflections+copy.jpg Reflections - Building reflections Taken in London, January 2023 The newer buildings on the south bank of the Thames reflect on each other in the morning light, creating a modern tapestry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610288934171-2F438G8ZB8MHZ4T39J26/Lake+Como+reflections-1.jpg Reflections - Italian reflections Taken on Lake Como in October 2018 Sailing back and forth across Lake Como to the beautiful villages dotted on its shores, there is plenty of time to take in the colourful reflections on the water. This reflection was taken just off the shore of Menaggio, where I was staying. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610288933190-VGLC09N3IS8T7MPW16GT/sunset+reflections+Tallinn+-1.jpg Reflections - Sunset reflections Taken between Tallinn and Helsinki, April 2019 I took a day trip to Tallinn from Helsinki. On the ferry back, the skies cleared and we had the most glorious sunset across the Gulf of Finland. But it was pretty cold on the deck so I got to enjoy the sunset - and its reflections! - in peaceful and windy solitude. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451998089342-RTS7LOBSU7YDJC1SRJ48/bird+-+flamingo+10.jpg Reflections - Get your wings out! Taken at Lake Nakuru, Kenya in January 2011. Flamingos love to strut; they also love to flash their colourful wings. We spent a wonderful hour by the lakeshore watching these graceful funny-looking birds strut their stuff. I like the way the water captures the colour of their wings. http://claireheavenphotography.com/canada daily 0.75 2025-02-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428005056956-B7NPRUALNDPRAXEJD25Q/Canada+-+Golden+Ears+4.jpg North America - Local mountains Taken in Pitt Meadows (near where I grew up), BC, Canada - in January 2010. Golden Ears, my local mountains in BC. Always overshadowing our view - on a cloudless day! - and beautiful whether in winter or summer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428005056956-B7NPRUALNDPRAXEJD25Q/Canada+-+Golden+Ears+4.jpg North America - Local mountains Taken in Pitt Meadows (near where I grew up), BC, Canada - in January 2010. Golden Ears, my local mountains in BC. Always overshadowing our view - on a cloudless day! - and beautiful whether in winter or summer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451989720209-QFGHL7YOJ6EF7NO59DWY/Canada+-+Pitt+Meadows+1.jpg North America - Local view Taken in Pitt Meadows, BC, Canada, with the local mountains in the background - December 2009. This is one of my favourite views from 'home' (Canada). Pitt Meadows has an extensive dike system with streams and small ponds dotted about. When the weather is clear, you can get some spectacular views of the local mountains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1739112634147-CYRAH2TOC8MPG8O76UGI/20241231_111138+copy.jpg North America - Mountain reflections Taken in December 2024, in Pitt Meadows, BC The views of the local mountains - Golden Ears - change depending on where you are in Pitt Meadows. This is one of my favourites, with the reflections on the water in the foreground. On this day, the clouds kept obscuring the mountains. I snapped this as they cleared. Within 5 minutes, they were gone again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562769926725-LJPNCU9H5FPOEQJGG7YW/cascade+falls+23a-1.jpg North America - Nature's wonder Taken at Cascade Falls, BC, Canada in June 2018. There are so many wonderful parks around the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley in BC. This is just one of them - a small park with a wonderful little waterfall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428005039452-UQNJZP25RMUX5H1NPJF1/Canada+-+Kanaka+Creek+mouth+7.jpg North America - The winding path Taken in Kanaka Creek Riverfront Park, Maple Ridge, BC, Canada - in January 2010. One of my favourite walks, along the Kanaka Creek / Fraser River area in Maple Ridge. This was a cool misty winter day. I love the autumnal colours and the hint of mist in the background, with the reflection of the bench in the water in the foreground. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562769926832-FP0UOBK4IMJMW27NT9FB/Vancouver+5-1.jpg North America - Sailing to the Sails Taken in Vancouver, BC, Canada in June 2018. The evening sun was just hitting the Sails in Downtown Vancouver. From North Vancouver and Lonsdale Quay, I watched the hovercraft sail across Burrard Inlet ferrying passengers from one side to the other. What a way to enjoy public transport. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052226708-SMGF30KUHRBK2YEJ5W85/empire+state+building+27.jpg North America - What can you see? Taken at Empire State Building, New York - in June 2011. On a short business trip to New York, I managed to sneak in a visit to the Empire State Building. Growing up in North America, I can't say that I was that enamoured with New York. Just seemed like a bigger, smellier, less pretty version of Vancouver. But the view from the Empire State building definitely gave you a sense of The Big Apple! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1428052226315-01OSNTLXS26YV8SANL8X/USA+-+San+Fran+-+Alcatraz+and+flag+1.jpg North America - A piece of American history Taken on a boat!, in San Francisco Bay, California - in August 2008. I took a little trip down to San Fran on a visit back to Vancouver in summer 2008. My favourite part of the trip was a boat ride around the Bay, going under Golden Gate bridge and visiting Alcatraz. For a young city (compared to the UK and Europe), San Francisco has quite a bit of history. The boat ride was incredibly windy but we managed to escape the fog and had a great afternoon looking at all the sites from the water - the best way to see a city, in my opinion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451989722073-CVF35GTUPVSA2JZT2RSZ/USA+-+San+Fran+-+Golden+Gate+Bridge+4.jpg North America - Iconic bridge Taken in San Fransisco in August 2008.   The Golden Gate Bridge is one of those iconic images of San Fransisco. It was great fun driving over the bridge in an open double-decker bus. I snapped this photo on the 'other side of the bridge' before we headed back into the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000741068-N4FD3683GWUJH99QWWDH/USA+-+San+Fran+-+horse+and+carriage+b%26w.jpg North America - Strolling back in time Taken in San Francisco in August 2008.   I was strolling along one of the paths by the Bay and a horse drawn carriage came into view. Making the photo black and white really made it feel like stepping back in time to when promenading was all the rage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451989720936-87NDSG83E1MVANOM50CW/trees+4.jpg North America - Redwoods Taken in northern California in August 2014.   These beautiful Redwood trees are truly spectacular. But it's very hard to photograph them! I found myself constantly looking up. This is one of my photographs where the sunlight managed to filter through the treetops. http://claireheavenphotography.com/europe daily 0.75 2025-09-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990423804-U7947XBQH3D4Y6S73B84/dorsoduro+5a.jpg Europe - Boat with a view Taken in Venice in June 2013.   Seeing these two gondoliers taking in the view of St Mark's Square somehow struck me as quite sweet. Despite seeing the landmarks every day, they could still appreciate a good view when they saw one. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990423804-U7947XBQH3D4Y6S73B84/dorsoduro+5a.jpg Europe - Boat with a view Taken in Venice in June 2013.   Seeing these two gondoliers taking in the view of St Mark's Square somehow struck me as quite sweet. Despite seeing the landmarks every day, they could still appreciate a good view when they saw one. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990426104-NXW77MOXMKTXVR5GTCXA/venice+general+12.jpg Europe - Boats in waiting Taken in Venice in June 2013.   I took this photo in the early morning before the crowds appeared and before the gondaliers readied their boats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990429944-QL2CTBIODE67YPEVEZE4/venice+general+18.jpg Europe - Dock with a view Taken in Venice in June 2013.   I particularly like this view of the dock with its old fashioned light and a gondola ready for its first passengers of the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471630716754-OJRZU0T53GT2VO044OV5/venice+general+13.jpg Europe - Misty light Taken in Venice in June 2013.   The morning light hadn't quite made it through the misty morning and this latern was still shining. This was taken just at the entrance to the Grand Canal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990424560-7JHLP6GQ8LQNX25UAAYQ/Italy+-+Venice+-+Grand+canal+in+the+morning.jpg Europe - Morning light Taken in Venice in October 2007.   This photo was taken in the early morning from the Accademia Bridge over the Grand Canal. I love the old fashioned lights with the old palaces in the background bathed in the soft morning light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990425884-RDM2BYFUQJO2PKSHSYZH/venice+general+15.jpg Europe - Reflections Taken in Venice in June 2013.   This photo looks out to the Grand Canal but with the reflection of the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore in the background. The island was reflected against one of the boat stop shelters on the Grand Canal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990428930-CUI2Z68U3IF5CYRO7CP7/venice+general+27.jpg Europe - Washing preparation Taken in Venice in June 2013.   I was walking along one of the many little streets of Venice when I looked up and saw all these clothes pegs in a windowstill. I loved the colour of the pegs against the plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1503938329283-VSDJMNJ6S6X2LFRZ58VE/locks.jpg Europe - Locked together Taken in Florence, Italy in February 2017.   Joined locks now seem to be everywhere - a symbolism of being joined together in love. Or at least a declaration for all to see. This particular group is on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1503938350114-XR07ZOF3ODQZQBKLIVH5/vecchio.jpg Europe - The Firenze Bridge Taken in Florence, Italy in February 2017.   There is something about 'The' Firenze Bridge - Ponte Vecchio. It oozes history, straddling the chocolatey Arno. It was looking particularly fine this bright February morning. But it's much nicer to look at from afar than stand on it, heaving with tourists! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562266594517-64F7RYGR9AFWIUIOBFNM/Lake+Como+reflections+2.jpg Europe - Italian reflections Taken in Lake Como, Italy in October 2018. It was early morning and the sun was rising over the mountains, creating soft reflections on the water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710078025185-JQDXU4HKKYC1AKAQF8IG/Lake+Como+-+Varenna+1+copy.jpg Europe - Varenna beauty #1 Taken in Varenna, Lake Como in October 2018. Villa Monastero on the shores of Lake Como is one of the beautiful botanical gardens that you can spend hours wandering around. And of course, there are wonderful views of the lake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710078025822-KIJ6M46X39RFPOH7BB4C/Lake+Como+-+Varenna+2+copy.jpg Europe - Varenna beauty #2 Taken in Varenna, Lake Como in October 2018. Villa Monastero on the shores of Lake Como is one of the beautiful botanical gardens that you can spend hours wandering around. And of course, there are wonderful views of the lake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000550156-F64BFBO0RDSBYN69A7SB/main+park+-+Palace+on+the+Water+-+detail+-+best.jpg Europe - Autumn colours and reflections Taken in Warsaw in November 2011.   I took this on an Autumn day in Lazienki Park in Warsaw. I love the way the trees branches bend down into the picture but you can still see the reflection of the bridge behind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000550022-MCV0QIBJZXG4KJ5HAWAG/Monreale+Cathedral+-+cloisters+2-detail.jpg Europe - Stormy cloisters Taken in Palermo, Sicily, in October 2007.   It was a particularly wet day so we decided to escape central Palermo and head to Monreale Cathedral. I particularly loved the lush cloisters with a view of the mountains in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000553600-CWG4Y5MVHB6YQN3FDBD9/Prague+-+Castle+-+roof+and+lamp.jpg Europe - Old world charm Taken in Prague in November 2009.   I took this photo in the Castle District of Prague. I loved the old fashioned rooves and the wonderfully ornate lampposts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000551837-GDVJ0M1XHN0JKJKEMBTP/Prague+-+castle+district+1.jpg Europe - Arches and sunlight Taken in Prague in November 2009.   This is one of the many alleyways in the Castle district. It was a sunny day and I love the way the sunlight pours through the arches and the alleyway disappears round the corner in the distance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000552984-PDUCC9TN9307JSF2CR8E/Prague+-+Mala+Strana+2.jpg Europe - Strolling in the Castle district Taken in Prague in November 2009.   There are so many wonderful alleyways in the Castle district. As I was wandering around, I looked up this particular alleyway to see an elderly woman slowly strolling up it. It's one of my favourite photos of my trip. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000555642-APJW5OQFVMISBAOBY1QM/Prague+-+Mala+Strana+view+2.jpg Europe - View of the city Taken in Prague in November 2009.   This is a view of the city from the Castle district looking down towards St Charles Bridge and the Old Town Hall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1452000556112-DTWJ147GWVPU7TN4401R/Prague+-+night-time.jpg Europe - Twinkly lights Taken in Prague in November 2009.   This is a view of Prague, looking down to St Charles Bridge and beyond. I always think cities look so different at night. Prague is especially pretty with its many spires and domes lit up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710078027815-HYTHASN7DZCF9W6IVETK/Tallinn+-+2+copy.jpg Europe - Strolling under flags Taken in Tallinn, Estonia in 2019. One of the prettiest old towns I’ve visited in Europe, it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And very photogenic! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710078030294-TSNC7CNGZA5U5TOBVGTM/Tallinn+-+3+copy.jpg Europe - Did you get my good side? Taken in Tallinn, Estonia in 2019. Estonia’s most photographed seagull, Steven, lives in the Old Town on the Kohtuotsa viewing platform, where he loves to pose for photos. He’s a European Herring Gull. And he was definitely in a posing mood when I visited him and Tallinn’s old town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710078027940-6FSDMTVGFWUHGCYCGUGG/Tallinn+-+1+copy.jpg Europe - A glimpse into the past Taken in Tallinn, Estonia in 2019. This old passage called St Catherine’s Passage gives you a glimpse into the past. You can find remnants of St Catherine’s Monastery Church, which is the one of the oldest churches in the city. You can also visit artisans creating their work, much like the artists of old. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710078033553-W72HQJIS86SGQX1VM7GN/Vilnius+1+-+old+church+courtyard+copy.jpg Europe - A leafy oasis Taken in Vilnius, Lithuania in 2019. Vilnius has quite a few surprisingly leafy areas for an old built-up city. This is in the grounds of an old church - the Holy Trinity Unite Church - close to the Gate of Dawn. The church itself is quite plain, compared to the other churches in Vilnius. But the grounds were alive with spring greenery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710078034550-7XLA14D04Z7QVUXPUHBC/Vilnius+2+-+jewish+quarter+copy.jpg Europe - The past is not lost Taken in Vilnius, Lithuania in 2019. The Jewish quarter in Vilnius doesn’t really exist anymore, having been destroyed in the war. But you can see remnants of the quarter in the Old Town. There are also a few murals dotted about to commemorate what was once known as once known as the “Jerusalem of the east”. This view was taken on a spring day from the Konstantino Sirvydo park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471630730887-A82YXPM6R9H6M7P3NVLA/horse+carriages+in+Cordoba.jpg Europe - Want to go for a ride? Taken in Cordoba, Spain in December 2007.   There were so many carriages lined up outside the Cordoba cathedral on this day. While the weather was nice, it was still December and I was surpised to see so many carriages out - but I guess they need to make money even in the winter! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1503938341681-KEHSK2Z96XHL1JEZLWHP/santorini+view+2.jpg Europe - The blue domes of Oia Taken on Santorini in July 2017.   This is one of those iconic photos of Santorini - the blue domed church. It was a beautifully warm summer's morning, and the crowds had not quite descended on Oia. I managed to snap this photo just after someone had been posing on the roof! Luckily, just the domes and backdrop of the caldera in this photo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1503938328268-X3JA9S1IHD4MN05RGA14/santorini+cathedral+1.jpg Europe - Peak-a-boo sun Taken on Santorini in July 2017.   Walking around Oia in the morning, I saw this church facade, just as the sun was peaking through the arches. I love the towering bells, with the hint of the blue dome in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1503938335360-M0JX1C0KGU49PAC0M6IN/santorini+door.jpg Europe - The blue door Taken on Santorini in July 2017.   Surprisingly, there are a lot of blue doors in Oia! But this one in particular caught my eye, with the steps leading down to the front and a hint of the sea beyond. It looked wonderfully clean and simple - and heavenly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1503938344676-533AC7NZWNGVIK7UGNFU/santorini+view+3.jpg Europe - Summer colours Taken on Santorini in July 2017.   The vibrant bougainvillea caught my eye first, but I love the combinations of the pink, yellow and blue. This is actually a fairly common sight in Santorini - contrary to the whites and blues that you see in postcards. It sings 'summer' to me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1503938347894-N91M2P8904WZMJ7SZQAT/santorini+view+5.jpg Europe - A framed view Taken on Santorini in July 2017.   This is a view of Oia surrounded by wonderful wildflowers, on the walk from Imerovigli to Oia. The pink of the flowers really makes the blue of the sea stand out and Oia's glimmering buildings look like icing on the peninsula. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1503938335261-DVJZBYAQN58DS5PTH6B5/santorini+church+2.jpg Europe - Church vista Taken on Santorini in July 2017.   This lovely little church is on the way to Skaros Rock in Imerovigli, where I was staying. It was early in the morning and the sun was just starting to hit Oia in the background. A wonderful peaceful spot before the crowds descended. I saw several wedding photo shoots here in the evening! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562781795435-QTC25WHOTNH0L6GNOD9I/day+1+view+2-1.jpg Europe - Mountains, shadows and light Taken on the southern side of Madeira in September 2016. The main island of Madeira feels tropical, being closer to Africa than Portugal. But it is part of Portugal! Madeira is volcanic so has fantastic mountainous scenery that rises up from the sea. I took this photo after we had driven into the interior of the island and then circled back down to the southern coast, through this amazing pass. The clouds kept rolling in but the sun would peak through every so often. An amazing place! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562781802820-YP43HRJDL7L4Y508EABU/north+view+3-1.jpg Europe - Paradise view Taken on the northern side of Madeira in September 2016. The main island of Madeira feels tropical, being closer to Africa than Portugal. But it is part of Portugal! Madeira is volcanic so has fantastic mountainous scenery that rises up from the sea. This is a photo of the northern side of the island, where there are small villages in the valleys close to long stretches of beach. We had climbed up some hairpin lanes to get this great view of the valley below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562781802924-ZQW5O4X0T3CBHOCVSKAX/santana+6-1.jpg Europe - Colourful traditions Taken in Santana, Madeira in September 2016. Santana is a small town on the north coast of Madeira. It is well known for its traditional stone houses, with their vibrant colours and thatched roofs. http://claireheavenphotography.com/flowers daily 0.75 2025-09-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629788120-4BZKV0ODGQDLB79IT8N0/roses+9+-+britannia.jpg Flowers - Regent's Park Roses series #1 Taken in Regent's Park in London in June 2016.   The Queen Mary's Gardens in Regent's Park are famed for their roses - and quite rightly too! There are quite a few varieties but these are the ones I liked the best. Some amazing colours on display. This one is called Britannia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629788120-4BZKV0ODGQDLB79IT8N0/roses+9+-+britannia.jpg Flowers - Regent's Park Roses series #1 Taken in Regent's Park in London in June 2016.   The Queen Mary's Gardens in Regent's Park are famed for their roses - and quite rightly too! There are quite a few varieties but these are the ones I liked the best. Some amazing colours on display. This one is called Britannia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629811998-FN8URE598CLTFM7L2P0Q/roses+11+-+britannia.jpg Flowers - Regent's Park Roses series #2 Taken in Regent's Park in London in June 2016.   The Queen Mary's Gardens in Regent's Park are famed for their roses - and quite rightly too! There are quite a few varieties but these are the ones I liked the best. Some amazing colours on display. This one is called Britannia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629810350-LDHIPHE4MOBDOEFU6NTH/roses+41+-+belle+epoque.jpg Flowers - Regent's Park Roses series #3 Taken in Regent's Park in London in June 2016.   The Queen Mary's Gardens in Regent's Park are famed for their roses - and quite rightly too! There are quite a few varieties but these are the ones I liked the best. Some amazing colours on display. This one is called Belle Epoque. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629846152-R9GL34FLAZL3RNPU270B/roses+62+-+just+for+you.jpg Flowers - Regent's Park Roses series #4 Taken in Regent's Park in London in June 2016.   The Queen Mary's Gardens in Regent's Park are famed for their roses - and quite rightly too! There are quite a few varieties but these are the ones I liked the best. Some amazing colours on display. This one is called Just for You. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629833804-Z0UWCT4OGO9CQ3DHGJGS/roses+70+-+iceberg.jpg Flowers - Regent's Park Roses series #5 Taken in Regent's Park in London in June 2016.   The Queen Mary's Gardens in Regent's Park are famed for their roses - and quite rightly too! There are quite a few varieties but these are the ones I liked the best. Some amazing colours on display. This one is called Iceberg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629859482-CW7KA1B1CXW74DO64FXY/roses+71+-+iceberg.jpg Flowers - Regent's Park Roses series #6 Taken in Regent's Park in London in June 2016.   The Queen Mary's Gardens in Regent's Park are famed for their roses - and quite rightly too! There are quite a few varieties but these are the ones I liked the best. Some amazing colours on display. This one is called Iceberg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629866080-1BX5I6SAJTLPT8UA2KJD/roses+76+-+norwich+castle.jpg Flowers - Regent's Park Roses series #7 Taken in Regent's Park in London in June 2016.   The Queen Mary's Gardens in Regent's Park are famed for their roses - and quite rightly too! There are quite a few varieties but these are the ones I liked the best. Some amazing colours on display. This one is called Norwich Castle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1756909628433-3WLTN6PR9QCOUWOA9KFX/roses+53.jpg Flowers - Regent's Park Rose series #8 Taken in Regent's Park in London in June 2016. The Queen Mary's Gardens in Regent's Park are famed for their roses - and quite rightly too! There are quite a few varieties but these are the ones I liked the best. Some amazing colours on display. This one is called Iceberg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562266216982-TS9FPVNP3INVRRN4FKJW/white+rose-1.jpg Flowers - Pale beauty Taken in June 2019, in the UK. I’m very lucky to live in a place that has some gorgeous rose bushes. This year, I had a few pale yellow and white roses bloom, so I had some fun taking some macro shots. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629896609-8WWTAB25MW48WD2X3O8X/butterfly+9.jpg Flowers - What's that on the flower? Taken at the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show in London in July 2016.   At this year's flower show, there was a wonderful butterfly dome. This particular butterfly decided red is the most flattering colour - and I think he's right! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629892540-ZEGV9HXSI8URVVI3R2M9/flower+2.jpg Flowers - Let there be light Taken at the Hampton Court Flower Show in London in July 2016.   There were many flowers at the Flower Show (funny that) but this one in particular caught my eye because of its lovely centre. And it just seemed to shine in the sunlight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629925432-Q9EU7TM9MOPQ8WLQLPL1/flower+3.jpg Flowers - Petals galore Taken at the Hampton Court Flower Show in London in July 2016.   I just loved the petals on this flower, graduating from almost white to deep pink in the centre. In a word - lovely. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471629927951-KPUV6UVJYNE5X2OFR0JW/Flowers+-+thistle+and+bee+1.jpg Flowers - Busy bee Taken in the lavender fields near Hitchin, Beds, UK in August 2010.   I love this photo because it shows just how much pollen bees can get on them - and they still keep collecting away! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471631268936-4EIPPWJGS7TM74LUYB0A/garden+13.jpg Flowers - Putting on my best face Taken in Singapore in June 2014.   This is one of the many beautiful orchids on display in the Cloud Forest Dome at the Gardens by the Bay. I particularly liked the shape of this one. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471631265981-A5WMP7YY57Y6VQZPK05W/garden+23.jpg Flowers - Orchids stick together Taken in Singapore in June 2014.   Another group of orchids, this time in vibrant pink hues, from the Cloud Forest Dome at the Gardens by the Bay. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471631296587-MUI7J900UNBGYBO1KT58/garden+33.jpg Flowers - Sunny centres Taken in Singapore in June 2014.   Another group of flowers in the Cloud Forest Dome at the Gardens by the Bay. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1471631298644-HP63G71E3X0KDBHWUKN2/garden+48.jpg Flowers - Putting your best face forward Taken in Singapore in June 2014.   Sunflowers found in the Flower Dome at the Gardens by the Bay. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562781891290-ZCW2PWUF3MV8DPMJSOTL/private+garden+18-1.jpg Flowers - Light and shadow Taken in Madeira in Sept 2016. Madeira has some wonderful flowers. I particularly liked this one for its unusual shape and colour. But I really like the way the light has accentuated the pattern in the flower. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562769332299-0HTL1JTYPEQ6GTVII2RT/flowers+5a-1.jpg Flowers - Red gold Taken in BC, Canada in June 2018. My brother has a wonderful garden - well, he should as a gardener! This is one of his beautiful poppies. I love the flecks of gold dust from the centre of the poppy. The bees were loving it too! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952919081-07UZMCV0YHB4ZO5QNST6/shelby+garden+3.jpg Flowers - Poppy Spotlight Taken in BC, Canada in June 2018. My brother has a wonderful garden - well, he should as a gardener! This is one of his beautiful poppies - a more unusual pink and yellow poppy. The darker fuchsia stripes in the middle really accent the yellow center. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1562769330380-3LFVOIAF8NAGPKUIW6AX/flowers+6-1.jpg Flowers - Pink gold Taken in BC, Canada in June 2018. My brother has a wonderful garden - well, he should as a gardener! This is one of his beautiful poppies - a more unusual pink poppy. I do love the red ones the best, but I think this is a lovely colour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316030870-OGJZT2T7KRJ2XXFGI2ED/poppy+8+copy.jpg Flowers - Poppies of London series, #1 Taken at the Tower of London, June 2022. Superbloom was an experiment to have wildflowers growing in the moat at the Tower of London, in celebration of the Queen’s 70th jubilee. When I went it, the poppies were just coming out - in all colours. A sight to see! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316031302-I7UPGV0T76J2L3BHF80O/poppy+9+copy.jpg Flowers - Poppies of London series, #2 Taken at the Tower of London, June 2022. Superbloom was an experiment to have wildflowers growing in the moat at the Tower of London, in celebration of the Queen’s 70th jubilee. When I went it, the poppies were just coming out - in all colours. A sight to see! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1756909857298-ZWAM2GXBEWI64HFXLOGA/poppies+june+5-1+copy.jpg Flowers - Standing out in the crowd Taken in June 2019. Poppies are one of my favourite flowers - this one caught my eye because of the unusual colour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316027801-F8F191ZL7Y51CGKVLX98/flowers+3+copy.jpg Flowers - Poppies in London series, #3 Taken at the Tower of London, June 2022. Superbloom was an experiment to have wildflowers growing in the moat at the Tower of London, in celebration of the Queen’s 70th jubilee. When I went it, the poppies were just coming out - in all colours. A sight to see! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316028478-FHF26BMFGU0U8JYMA149/flowers+5+copy.jpg Flowers - Poppies in London series, #4 Taken at the Tower of London, June 2022. Superbloom was an experiment to have wildflowers growing in the moat at the Tower of London, in celebration of the Queen’s 70th jubilee. When I went it, the poppies were just coming out - in all colours. A sight to see! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316025057-K9FQ9ME80B51LY21WNAS/daisy+1+copy.jpg Flowers - Sunshine in a flower Taken at the Tower of London, June 2022. Superbloom was an experiment to have wildflowers growing in the moat at the Tower of London, in celebration of the Queen’s 70th jubilee. Along with poppies, there were all sorts of different wildflowers, including this lovely daisy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952930317-8YKNC2UIIM6GIHVRM2B2/shelby+garden+2.jpg Flowers - Purple Haze of Glory Taken in Peckham Rye Park in June 2021. In the middle of this park is an old English garden called Sexby Garden. It’s quite small but packed with beautiful flowers like this orchid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952929945-TAXVREEIUR871RPO1UXM/shelby+garden+4.jpg Flowers - Wistful Early Summer Taken in Peckham Rye Park in June 2021. In the middle of this park is an old English garden called Sexby Garden. It’s quite small but packed with beautiful flowers and a wonderful arch covered in wisteria. I missed the main display but there were still a few flowers left in June. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1644762038829-KVLDJH1IRUDJU4EOC6FV/Ruined+church+1+copy.jpg Flowers - White Gold Taken in London, in September 2021. These beautiful anemones were flowering in a little garden in the heart of the City of London. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316022238-5MOPF05YNC2ITD7QR1LI/cuba+-+lily+1+copy.jpg Flowers - Lilies & Reflections series, #1 Taken in the Havana Botanical Gardens, Cuba, January 2018. I love lilies - there is something so majestic about them. And even more lovely if you can capture their reflection in the water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316022124-A0MK41EV5JVWU4GCS1JU/cuba+-+lily+2+copy.jpg Flowers - Lilies & Reflections series, #2 Taken in the Havana Botanical Gardens, Cuba, January 2018. I love lilies - there is something so majestic about them. And even more lovely if you can capture their reflection in the water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316024468-3R793UJ4ACTLH5R690EM/cuba+-+lily+3+copy.jpg Flowers - Lilies & Reflections series, #3 Taken in the Havana Botanical Gardens, Cuba, January 2018. I love lilies - there is something so majestic about them. And even more lovely if you can capture their reflection in the water. http://claireheavenphotography.com/caribbean daily 0.75 2025-09-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551626127458-FKRVXEYOQ5J9M7YWRHFS/flowers%2C+havana+1.jpg Caribbean - Flowers on the move Taken in Havana, Cuba in January 2018. Havana is full of vibrant colours and lots of entrepreneurial characters. Rather than have a stall, this flower seller used his bike to sell his flowers, on the move. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551626127458-FKRVXEYOQ5J9M7YWRHFS/flowers%2C+havana+1.jpg Caribbean - Flowers on the move Taken in Havana, Cuba in January 2018. Havana is full of vibrant colours and lots of entrepreneurial characters. Rather than have a stall, this flower seller used his bike to sell his flowers, on the move. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551626126101-K1QHF7JUIO85QAZUDRB3/havana+fortress+1.jpg Caribbean - Old Havana grandeur Taken in Havana, Cuba in January 2018. Castillo de la Real Fuerza is a bastion fort in the Old Town of Havana. It was a pretty stormy day when we were wandering around the Old Town, but the sun came out to highlight the old stone walls of the fort just in time for me to snap a photo! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1532376474165-48O7BA3D2TAW1VG6DSHP/Cuba+palm+tree.jpg Caribbean - Lean a bit to the right Taken in Varadero, Cuba in January 2018. One of those iconic shots of a Caribbean island - a leaning palm tree! This was a lone palm tree resisting the wind on the beach at Varadero. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1756909901104-3TVSOF8TC24AKY7D9RBS/cuba+-+man+with+bull+copy.jpg Caribbean - Best friends Taken in Vinales, Cuba in January 2018. This farmer and his wonderful cow were hanging out near the Mural of Pre-History, a tourist spot. They were more than happy to pose for photos - I especially liked the way the cow curled around his best friend. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551626198336-L5WA37LSUJ07AB5IMPGN/varadero+sugar+cane+man+3.jpg Caribbean - How much do you want? Taken in Varadero, Cuba in January 2018. There are lots of sugarcane plantations around Cuba. We visited an old plantation near Varadero. This was one of the sugarcane cutters and he demonstrated how to strip the plant to get to the gritty sugary goodness. He meant business! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551624486550-3OH062P71M6PSNZCYQW5/sugar+cane%2C+man+matanzas+road+2-1.jpg Caribbean - Which way do we go? Taken on the way to Varadero, Cuba, in January 2018. This old farmer was clearing his land on the side of the road. We had taken a road off the highway and had (of course!) gotten lost. He was very helpful and friendly and posed for photos, after giving us directions. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551626198693-US4GSRF7DNRKF2BZDG98/vinales+tobacco+farm+7.jpg Caribbean - Want a smoke? Taken in Vinales, Cuba in January 2018. This was working tobacco farm, one of many in the region. It was amazing to see all the wonderful green plants, before they are dried and rolled up to create those famous Cuban cigars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551624672856-GN48P8S4PHQ1017ZJIIG/vinales+vista+2-1.jpg Caribbean - What a view Taken in Vinales, Cuba in January 2018. One of those iconic views of Vinales with its lush valley floor and limestone hills in the background. A beautiful place to watch a sunset, ride a bike or hike into the hills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1532376829366-J8IYLYR4EH7FU4ZFRUGQ/Santa+Clara+rain.jpg Caribbean - Rain colours Taken in Santa Clara, Cuba in January 2018. Being a Caribbean island, short sharp rain showers are the norm. This photo was taken just after such a shower in the central town of Santa Clara. I love how the colours of the buildings are blending into the rain-slicked street. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551626105773-SCRTR6MT149LK03N90H5/car+trinidad+1.jpg Caribbean - Check out my racing stripe Taken in Trinidad, Cuba in January 2018. Old cars are one of ‘the’ things about Cuba. There are loads of different types around. This one caught my eye as it was strategically parked for all to see in the Old Town of Trinidad. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551624542677-KS9MCJXQ6FNGU8QXXETJ/musicians+trinidad+2-1.jpg Caribbean - Play me a little tune Taken in Trinidad, Cuba in January 2018. Music is a way of life in Cuba. In Trinidad, there are lots of street performers, their music floating on the breeze and colliding with the next musician down the lane. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551624593628-FKQRYR98HZZKTW34EO4F/musicians+trinidad+1-1.jpg Caribbean - On a break Taken in Trinidad, Cuba in January 2018. Music is a way of life in Cuba. In Trinidad, there are lots of street performers, their music floating on the breeze and colliding with the next musician down the lane. This group of old timers were more interested in shooting the breeze than playing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551626193021-MN63KR6YL9APB41O7YT5/trinidad+tower+1-1.jpg Caribbean - A window with a view #1 Taken in Trinidad, Cuba in January 2018. The St Francis of Assisi convent and bell tower is one of the recognisable buildings in Trinidad. About half-way up the bell tower, there are circular windows where you can get a glimpse of the town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551626193346-NJ4YES6GBHEGWDWDSP4X/trinidad+tower+3.jpg Caribbean - Window with a view #2 Taken in Trinidad, Cuba in January 2018. The St Francis of Assisi convent and bell tower is one of the recognisable buildings in Trinidad. About half-way up the bell tower, there are circular windows where you can get a glimpse of the town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1551626215721-AEUZ5SXOKMSMB3NXHZZ2/trinidad+door+3.jpg Caribbean - Locked away in a frame Taken in Trinidad, Cuba in January 2018. There are so many beautiful old windows and doors all across Cuba. But Trinidad definitely has its fair share! This was a lovely old window with an ornate frame against one of those bright Caribbean colours. http://claireheavenphotography.com/trees daily 0.75 2025-02-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952418796-JHF84K1GJ2DVUN5U9F41/cherry+blossom+1.jpg Trees - Greenwich Park Blossoms series #1 Taken in Greenwich Park, in April 2021 I have always wanted to see the cherry blossoms in Japan … but the blossoms in Greenwich Park are a great substitute! I took this series of photos on a glorious spring morning in April. The blossoms were late blooming in 2021 but they put on a great display when they did bloom! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952418796-JHF84K1GJ2DVUN5U9F41/cherry+blossom+1.jpg Trees - Greenwich Park Blossoms series #1 Taken in Greenwich Park, in April 2021 I have always wanted to see the cherry blossoms in Japan … but the blossoms in Greenwich Park are a great substitute! I took this series of photos on a glorious spring morning in April. The blossoms were late blooming in 2021 but they put on a great display when they did bloom! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952370891-4ZS06YR1A9AMNBCY953G/cherry+blossom+2.jpg Trees - Greenwich Park Blossoms Series #2 Taken in Greenwich Park, in April 2021 I took this series of photos on a glorious spring morning in April. The blossoms were late blooming in 2021 but they put on a great display when they did bloom! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952324076-2IJ5UWVTHO5GKJQFKZQX/cherry+blossom+3.jpg Trees - Greenwich Park Blossoms Series #3 Taken in Greenwich Park, in April 2021 I took this series of photos on a glorious spring morning in April. The blossoms were late blooming in 2021 but they put on a great display when they did bloom! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952456079-ILTXWN7SOQ7T32VJZ4OT/cherry+blossom+19.jpg Trees - Greenwich Park Blossoms Series #4 Taken in Greenwich Park, in April 2021 I took this series of photos on a glorious spring morning in April. The blossoms were late blooming in 2021 but they put on a great display when they did bloom! In this photo, I used a crystal ball as a focal point - a great little (if heavy!) device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952389159-9MW0ORDXX3Z0JYQILGII/cherry+blossom+20.jpg Trees - Greenwich Park Blossoms Series #5 Taken in Greenwich Park, in April 2021 I took this series of photos on a glorious spring morning in April. The blossoms were late blooming in 2021 but they put on a great display when they did bloom! In this photo, I used a crystal ball as a focal point - a great little (if heavy!) device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952347923-4AFU1OEEEMA0GLQIICKF/cherry+blossom+18.jpg Trees - Greenwich Park Blossoms Series #6 Taken in Greenwich Park, in April 2021 I took this series of photos on a glorious spring morning in April. The blossoms were late blooming in 2021 but they put on a great display when they did bloom! In this photo, I used a crystal ball as a focal point - a great little (if heavy!) device. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287025305-1XU955FS6AX2ANCGHXU0/kew+gardens+trees+1.jpg Trees - Kew Gardens series #1 Taken in Kew Gardens, London, in October 2019 Kew Gardens is one of the best places to see the autumn colours in London. With its over 50,000 different kinds of living plants and numerous paths, there is no shortage of vistas and colourful trees to appreciate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287037805-LV8YZAT8P7RH6PWXOWZL/kew+gardens+trees+5-1.jpg Trees - Kew Gardens series #2 Taken in Kew Gardens, London, in October 2019 Kew Gardens is one of the best places to see the autumn colours in London. With its over 50,000 different kinds of living plants and numerous paths, there is no shortage of vistas and colourful trees to appreciate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287032676-RP8UAQS7VISFF3BOBMY3/kew+gardens+trees+3-1.jpg Trees - Kew Gardens series #3 Taken in Kew Gardens, London, in October 2019 Kew Gardens is one of the best places to see the autumn colours in London. With its over 50,000 different kinds of living plants and numerous paths, there is no shortage of vistas and colourful trees to appreciate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287033014-UB28UTXHV6NDBC5O7M50/kew+gardens+trees+4-1.jpg Trees - Kew Gardens series #4 Taken in Kew Gardens, London, in October 2019 Kew Gardens is one of the best places to see the autumn colours in London. With its over 50,000 different kinds of living plants and numerous paths, there is no shortage of vistas and colourful trees to appreciate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610289829241-OCKGJW9XYXB042GBFWC3/London+-+Kew+Gardens+-+leaves+1.jpg Trees - Kew Gardens Series #5 Taken in Kew Gardens, London, in October 2019 Kew Gardens is one of the best places to see the autumn colours in London. With its over 50,000 different kinds of living plants and numerous paths, there is no shortage of vistas and colourful trees to appreciate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287025621-A5H4FEGY9Y08B3BBCUUJ/kew+gardens+trees+2-1.jpg Trees - Kew Gardens series #6 Taken in Kew Gardens, London, in October 2019 Kew Gardens is one of the best places to see the autumn colours in London. With its over 50,000 different kinds of living plants and numerous paths, there is no shortage of vistas and colourful trees to appreciate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287052205-WIN724QAYT7L7JX2F1AA/washington+trees+2-1.jpg Trees - American colours Taken in Washington, DC in November 2015 This small park in the Georgetown district of Washington hummed with the traffic of the parkway running alongside it. But look up and you were lifted up by the vibrant colours of autumn foliage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287039971-YRWX9Z8H4ZFDJ3WFBG4D/Misc+-+stormy+branches.jpg Trees - Reaching for the stormy skies Taken in the UK, in 2009 These branches, stripped bare in the encroaching winter, looked like spindly fingers, reaching up to the stormy skies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287043010-FOH6YNZ296F9L39ZQKBU/Snow+tree-1.jpg Trees - Laden with winter Taken in BC, Canada, in December 2016 I love how snow can cling to branches after a snowfall. The branches and snow create wonderful patterns together. This particular one caught my eye because of the red bark of the tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287048145-LZE7YDCI7RPNBEKK5WM4/Tree+1-1.jpg Trees - The lesser-spotted tree Taken in Lake Como, October 2018 This is one unusual tree! Its spotted bark caught my eye. With the dappled sunlight and markings, it really stood out amongst its neighbours. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287045924-9NZGRQAEJ2N389D49H3M/Spain+-+Cordoba+palm.jpg Trees - Swaying in the breeze Taken in Cordoba Spain, in 2007 While this was taken in the southern Andalusian city, it could have been taken anywhere in a warm climate. This particular palm had just the right amount of sway in the breeze! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610289345779-84NHNNGFFKLAZ94M87Q3/willow+tree%2C+Canada.jpg Trees - Willow embrace Taken in BC, Canada in 2018 There is something about laying under a the branches of a willow tree in a summer breeze. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287531880-QSNRXMZ4LUGHYN3341WQ/dead+vlei+23.jpg Trees - Dead Vlei series #1 Taken in June 2015 in Dead Vlei, Sossousvlei, Namibia While the weather wasn't great, I spent a fantastic couple of hours in Dead Vlei one morning in June. It is a stark and atmospheric place - and one of the most memorable I've been to on my travels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1610287531503-VAX9GR0QR6BVUT66K4OH/dead+vlei+30.jpg Trees - Dead Vlei Series #2 Taken in June 2015 in Dead Vlei, Sossousvlei, Namibia While the weather wasn't great, I spent a fantastic couple of hours in Dead Vlei one morning in June. It is a stark and atmospheric place - and one of the most memorable I've been to on my travels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1739112565551-ARXC29OJZQODOYM9LBQI/tree+1+copy.jpg Trees - Mossy Trees Series #1 Taken at Kanaka Creek, January 2025 This is where I grew up in Canada. I spent many hours playing in and around the creek. I love this whole magical area, from another time. The trees in particular feel like other-worldly beings with their moss-covered winding branches. It feels like they could wake up at any moment, stretching their arms out over the creek and settling back into another bended position. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1739112568657-9SFNN17TOJIYEE8ZX7DT/tree+3+copy.jpg Trees - Mossy Trees Series #2 Taken at Kanaka Creek, January 2025 This is where I grew up in Canada. I spent many hours playing in and around the creek. I love this whole magical area, from another time. The trees in particular feel like other-worldly beings with their moss-covered winding branches. It feels like they could wake up at any moment, stretching their arms out over the creek and settling back into another bended position. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1739112565649-2JYCAT4EDRKW1P6FZV7M/tree+2.jpg Trees - Mossy Trees Series #3 Taken at Kanaka Creek, January 2025 This is where I grew up in Canada. I spent many hours playing in and around the creek. I love this whole magical area, from another time. The trees in particular feel like other-worldly beings with their moss-covered winding branches. It feels like they could wake up at any moment, stretching their arms out over the creek and settling back into another bended position. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1739112568461-4JMPG7LSJYLLYXGBPG77/tree+4+copy.jpg Trees - Mossy Tree Series #4 Taken at Kanaka Creek, January 2025 This is where I grew up in Canada. I spent many hours playing in and around the creek. I love this whole magical area, from another time. The trees in particular feel like other-worldly beings with their moss-covered winding branches. It feels like they could wake up at any moment, stretching their arms out over the creek and settling back into another bended position. http://claireheavenphotography.com/london daily 0.75 2025-09-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990463049-FGHGN2FWCR52P2Y8VGT8/London+-+Hampton+Court+Palace+Gardens+3.jpg London - A bench with a view Taken at Hampton Court Palace, London in April 2010.   Hampton Court Palace has stunning gardens, particularly in the Spring. It's wonderful to sit on one of the many benches and take in the flowers and people watch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990463049-FGHGN2FWCR52P2Y8VGT8/London+-+Hampton+Court+Palace+Gardens+3.jpg London - A bench with a view Taken at Hampton Court Palace, London in April 2010.   Hampton Court Palace has stunning gardens, particularly in the Spring. It's wonderful to sit on one of the many benches and take in the flowers and people watch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800426405-E8H8I7QR38DZ833JN90H/London+-+Hampton+Court+Palace+1.jpg London - Curves and diamonds Taken at Hampton Court Palace in April 2010. I love this shot of a corner of one of the inner courtyards at Hampton Court Palace. It's the combination of the diamond pattern on the floor, the curved ceiling and the row of columns going off into the distance - beckoning me to sit on the bench in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952689684-UYBKMA8N1T3XUCB6ZOF8/cherry+blossom+8.jpg London - Greenwich Park in Spring #1 Taken in April 2021, at Greenwich Park, London. Greenwich Park is one of the Royal Parks in south London. Most people head to the Royal Observatory and the Meridian Line. But this wonderful avenue of cherry trees is a must see in the springtime. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1633952676793-96S54HPW67SCYWZPVMZT/cherry+blossom+10.jpg London - Greenwich Park in Spring #2 Taken in April 2021, at Greenwich Park, London. Greenwich Park is one of the Royal Parks in south London. Most people head to the Royal Observatory and the Meridian Line. But this wonderful avenue of cherry trees is a must see in the springtime. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085745557-RTXXYZCCKHXJZ1956375/Green+park+2+copy.jpg London - Afternoon light #1 Taken in January 2023. Strolling in Green Park in London, in the winter afternoon light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085746905-D25UGN5642V8JJVVPMP5/Green+park+copy.jpg London - Afternoon light #2 Taken in January 2023. Strolling in Green Park in London, in the winter afternoon light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990465650-S8SQSHQLLT1JX8RWGNNA/London+-+Kew+Gardens+1.jpg London - Kew Gardens Taken in October 2008 - one of the ponds at Kew Gardens.   Despite it being Autumn, the colours had not totally begun to change at Kew Gardens. It almost felt like a Spring day, with the sun shining and reflections out in force. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1451990463657-WVUF4KGLI4XWPG761AT4/London+-+Holland+Park+Mews.jpg London - Holland Park Mews Taken in April 2009, Holland Park Mews, London.   Nothing beats London on a sunny spring day. Holland Park Mews has some wonderful houses and breath-taking wisteria. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1427800425510-HAA1AV63OYWVCCAMHZT5/London+-+Liverpool+St+Station+1.jpg London - Liverpool arches Taken at Liverpool Street Station, London in June 2010. Rather than look at the trains and all the activity on the ground, I tend to look up at train stations because they often have very interesting ironwork columns and ceilings. Liverpool Street Station does not disappoint. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1644760910514-8RVZZBBLJZDL8OVRO768/CW+-+curvy+building+1+%28CH%29+v2+copy.jpg London - Are you leaning to the right? Taken in Canary Wharf, in October 2021. There are many new and tall buildings going up around Canary Wharf. This particular building, close to South Quay, has an interesting curve to it. Not quite the Leaning Tower of Pisa - but it is definitely curvy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1644760910157-3HLKGNQHDDQEQCTR2R7X/SkyG+-+lines+1+b%26w+%28CH%29+copy.jpg London - Lines and Crosses Taken at the Sky Garden, London, in October 2021. At the top of 20 Fenchurch Street in the City of London, is a free garden area that gives you views of the surrounding city. But the building itself is interesting, with shapes and sizes crisscrossing each other. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1644760912669-A0KS48V160KGGBL4FN8C/SkyG+-+lines+2+%28CH%29+copy.jpg London - Look up! Taken at the Sky Garden, in October 2021. At the top of 20 Fenchurch Street in the City of London, is a free garden area that gives you views of the surrounding city. But the building itself is interesting, with a variety of plants and trees dotted about. The palm trees are a particular site to behold, reaching up to the top of the glass roof. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1644762039852-69Z4P8CROINTSRAQB6JU/Ruined+church+2+copy.jpg London - A Leafy Roof Taken in London, in September 2021. One of the most atmospheric church ruins in London is St Dunstan in the East. Only the walls remain of this original 1100s church. Plants have been left to grow around the remains and when the trees are in full leaf-mode, the church becomes whole again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1756909362564-V6EMV4XP78DQCI41I6DY/church+4-1+copy.jpg London - A window into nature Taken in London, in September 2021. One of the most atmospheric church ruins in London is St Dunstan in the East. Only the walls remain of this original 1100s church. Plants have been left to grow around the remains and when the trees are in full leaf-mode, the church becomes whole again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316230048-HAS9CGW7WFIQQWKZVMV9/toweroflondon4+copy.jpg London - Tower of London Flowers series, #1 Taken at the Tower of London, June 2022. Superbloom was an experiment to have wildflowers growing in the moat at the Tower of London, in celebration of the Queen’s 70th jubilee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316233194-4WRMSOPWZHB3ADNXJ702/toweroflondon6+copy.jpg London - Tower of London Flower series, #2 Taken at the Tower of London, June 2022. Superbloom was an experiment to have wildflowers growing in the moat at the Tower of London, in celebration of the Queen’s 70th jubilee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316230499-9OC47MFLQBPO8TEYXDAP/toweroflondon5+copy.jpg London - Tower of London Flowers series, #3 Taken at the Tower of London, June 2022. Superbloom was an experiment to have wildflowers growing in the moat at the Tower of London, in celebration of the Queen’s 70th jubilee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316236328-95Q0ATE74UORDEK0GL3K/toweroflondon13+copy.jpg London - Tower of London Flowers series, #4 Taken at the Tower of London, June 2022. Superbloom was an experiment to have wildflowers growing in the moat at the Tower of London, in celebration of the Queen’s 70th jubilee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1688316236470-W8Z76G32RBBBRKMK2U3S/toweroflondon15+copy.jpg London - Tower of London Flowers series, #5 Taken at the Tower of London, June 2022. Superbloom was an experiment to have wildflowers growing in the moat at the Tower of London, in celebration of the Queen’s 70th jubilee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54e36f91e4b0aff1476616b5/1710085747947-FXZPYOTMZLJ5IU0C7WHC/leadenhall+market+1+copy.jpg London - A colourful display Taken at Leadenhall Market in October 2022. 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