Behind The Lens: ‘I love how nature makes photography easy’

This week, Andrew Gardner shares some of his favourite photographs.

Andrew, is originally from Preston and moved to Frodsham to run a newsagents but now lives in Winnington.

He likes to take pictures of nature especially wildlife and landscapes.

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Andrew Gardner with his grandson Harvey (Image: supplied)

When and why did you take up photography?

I started many, many moons ago with a Zenith EM manual SLR. If memory serves me right, I’ve always loved photography and wanted to have a go. I started photographing family, car shows and steam engines, which I still love to do but I also like capturing wildlife and landscapes. Living next to Furey Woods the scenery is in abundance around Northwich and you can’t ignore it.

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I love to witness the changing seasons and look for the next magical shot

The Daniel Adamson passing under Dutton Viaduct with the train passing overhead (Image: supplied)

What do you love about taking pictures?

You never stop learning and trying new things. It’s my escape route as I suffer from mental health issues. When I go out with my camera, I lose all track of time. My wife often rings to find out where I am because I’ve been out too long! I can be out hours and it only feels like minutes. My camera buddy is my little dog and she will usually let me know when she’s ready to go home.

Where is your favourite place to take pictures and why?

The place I visit a lot is the river Weaver – it’s definitely my safe place. I like to go along the river from Acton Bridge towards Dutton Viaduct. Every walk is different and no two are the same especially as the seasons change. There are so many different vessels on the water and the wildlife is constantly changing with the migration seasons.

Town bridge (Image: supplied)

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“Photography is a special moment between me and my creative mind”

What is your favourite subject matter and why?

My favourite subject matter at the moment is landscapes be it rural or industrial. I see beauty in all subjects. I love how nature can make photography easy some days and more of a challenge on others. This is why I go out with the camera – you can have days that are total flop and others where everything goes perfectly.

Bridge 211 on the Trent and Mersey canal (Image: supplied)

What do you enjoy about being part of our Camera Club on Facebook?

Being part of the camera club is great because we’re all learning from each other. It’s great to be with like minded people who are taking photos for the love of photography. I get ideas from other members about where to go next.

If you could photograph anyone/any place/anything, who/what would it be?

I would love to photograph the Northern Lights – that would be fantastic. I’d love to see them and then photograph them – what a great challenge. Fingers crossed one day I’ll make the trip.

Astle Park steam rally in Chelford (Image: supplied)