I packed my rucksack with camera, waterproofs and a bite to eat then headed off for Upper Teesdale in search of wild, early summer flowers and I wasn't disappointed. After crossing the bridge at Low Force, I found a super display of Orchids. I'm very new to this hobby but I'm determined to make myself more knowledgeable on our national flora. I'm also trying to improve my camera skills and I think slowly but surely I've reached a turning point.

All these images are taken with a very modest digital camera. The macro setting is simple and very easy to use. All of the images on this page were taken using the macro feature. I realise that some of these images don't follow the 'rule of thirds' in as much that the images have no real composition to them, but they're a big improvement on everything that went before.

I'm also beginning to discover that to get a really good shot, you do need to get down on the ground and be level with the flower, otherwise you get a stem that's out of focus with the flower. The Common Spotted Orchid was a tricky shot, as the wind kept blowing the stem out of the frame, so I was pleased with the final picture.

'Eye bright in the Hedgerow', I remember these words from a Martin Simpson song, so when I discovered this small beautiful flower that carpets the fields and banks of the river Tees, I suddenly knew the meaning behind the words.

Probably the most delightful find of the day was the Ragged-Robin. This group was taken on the top of hay meadow and the wind was really blowing, but the narrow leaves and those bright pink flowers with their ragged appearance are so gorgeous.

I think the next image is Wood Cranesbill, in fact I'm almost certain. There was a group very close to the river's edge (too close) as I got wet feet trying to take this picture. Unfortunately while doing so, some inquisitive dog, watching me sprawled in the grass, came over for a better look and in doing so trampled all over me and the flower. The dog's owner was very apologetic and I didn't really mind the dog licking my nose, but shame about the flowers.

I'm not at all sure what the next flower is. I've searched through my guide book and nothing comes close, although I have a feeling it could be native to Teesdale. I need to do a little more research on this little fellow!

The last picture is of the Marsh Orchid, once I crossed the river onto what used to be the Durham bank, I noticed some fabulous specimens, much better than this one. However,it was getting late in the day and the rain ( which had poured all day) now had me longing for some dry cloths. My boots were also leaking due to the earlier shot of the Wood Cranesbill. Apart from the rain it was a smashing day out and I'm looking forward to a forage in Hannah's Meadow one day next week. Don't forget to click on the flowers for a bigger image!

Keith

Back to the home page

I plan to include other areas I enjoy walking, but as this site is still very new, the other pages are still to be added.