In this episode of the "Curious About Nature" podcast, host Rachel Mills converses with Ian Stephens, a lawn care expert and keen nature photographer. They discuss Ian's journey into nature photography, his book " My year in photos: A 365 day nature inspired photo diary," and the charitable contributions from its sales. The episode emphasises the importance of connecting with nature and the joy of capturing nature's beauty. Ian shares anecdotes about photographing wildlife and the need to balance documentation with being present.
Website: https://www.lawnmaster.co.uk/lawn-care/nottingham-lincoln/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LawnMasterNotts
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LawnMasterUK
Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.
Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/
Email: info@buttercuplearning.com
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Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
What we discussed in the episode:
Guest Introduction (00:00:43)
Ian Stephens, a lawn care expert, is welcomed back to discuss his nature photography journey.
Book Publication Announcement (00:01:12)
Ian shares his experience of publishing his book "My Year in Photos: 365 Day Nature Inspired Photo Diary."
Charitable Contributions (00:02:00)
Discussion on profits from book sales being donated to wildlife and hospice charities.
Nature Photography and Conservation (00:02:30)
Ian highlights the connection between his photography and contributions to wildlife conservation.
Ian's Early Nature Experiences (00:03:25)
Ian reflects on his childhood experiences in nature and how they shaped his passion.
Nature Photography Challenge (00:04:01)
Ian explains how he started his nature photography challenge after a friend's suggestion.
Book Two Plans (00:05:21)
Ian reveals plans for a second book and discusses its potential release timeline.
Favourite Photo Titles (00:06:06)
Ian shares amusing titles for his nature photography, emphasizing the fun aspect.
Unique Wildlife Encounters (00:06:55)
Discussion on unusual wildlife names and encounters, including the "vomit fungus."
Using Technology for Identification (00:07:43)
Ian discusses using apps like Google Lens to identify plants and animals in nature.
Encouragement for New Photographers (00:09:12)
Ian encourages beginners to start photography with simple subjects to build confidence.
Involvement in 30 Days Wild (00:10:30)
Ian talks about his participation in 30 Days Wild and its activities.
Favourite Photos and Stories (00:11:23)
Ian shares memorable photos and the stories behind them, including a notable bluebell shot.
Spring Flowers and Plants (00:12:50)
Discussion on favourite spring flowers and the anticipation of their blooming.
Learning from Nature Photography (00:13:28)
Ian reflects on how daily photography has deepened his understanding of nature and seasons.
Experiences with Kids in Nature (00:15:08)
Rachel shares a story about engaging kids in nature activities and their varying interests.
Inspiring Future Generations (00:16:20)
Discussion on inspiring families and children to engage with nature through photography.
Personal Photography Experiences (00:17:00)
Ian recounts a memorable photography experience during a walk in the lakes.
Cheeky Animal Stories (00:18:06)
Rachel prompts Ian to share funny stories about animal interactions during his photography.
Feeding Goats at the Fruit Farm (00:18:16)
Ian shares a cheeky moment feeding goats while picking strawberries.
Challenges of Wildlife Photography (00:18:42)
Discussion on the difficulties of capturing animals in their natural behavior.
Missing the Experience for Photography (00:19:21)
Ian highlights how focusing on photography can detract from experiencing nature.
Importance of the Bigger Picture (00:20:07)
Emphasis on photographing landscapes, not just close-ups, to appreciate nature fully.
Book Purchase Information (00:20:19)
Details about purchasing Ian's book and its pricing.
Charitable Contributions from Book Sales (00:20:35)
All profits from book sales are donated to hospice and wildlife trust.
Social Media Engagement (00:20:52)
Ian shares his social media handles for following his photography.
