I only managed one photography focused trip this month, but it turned out to be a memorable one. On the Summer Solstice I headed to Bawdsey Beach for sunrise, and it was well worth the early start. Alongside that, a handful of work trips gave me the opportunity to take the camera with me, resulting in a few images I’m particularly pleased with.

Valerian by the Sea

One work trip took me to the coast, and with the weather looking promising early in the day, I wandered along the Crag Path before getting started. While my main goal was to capture images for work, there were plenty of opportunities to make photographs for myself as well.

I spent some time around the valerian that lines sections of the shingle beach. After taking some of the more obvious compositions, I looked for different ways to use the flowers, framing the fishing boats rather than simply photographing them. It was a chance to slow down, experiment, and find something a little less expected.

Chasing First Light

I knew I wanted to be out for the Summer Solstice. After checking the tides, I settled on East Lane Beach at Bawdsey, with the fallen trees beneath the cliffs as my main subject.

As I made my way across the beach, the incoming tide gradually narrowed my route. Reaching the trees before sunrise gave me time to settle in and enjoy the quiet before the light arrived. I experimented with a mixture of compositions, spending plenty of time creating long exposures. The movement of the water around the weathered trunks worked beautifully, adding a sense of calm and motion to the images.

Later, I walked north along the shoreline, photographing the sea as the sun slowly rose above the horizon. It was one of those mornings that reminded me why early starts are always worth the effort.

Suffolk Day : A love letter to my county

The Summer Solstice also marks Suffolk Day, a celebration of the county. As the UK’s most easterly county, Suffolk is the first to greet the sunrise, making the longest day of the year a fitting time to celebrate everything that makes this place so special.

Here is my visual ode to Suffolk.

A Visual Ode to Suffolk

From our rugged coastline to ancient woodlands, from quaint Tudor towns to heather covered heathlands, Suffolk is a landscape full of quiet beauty.

Big Suffolk skies stretch across rivers, land, and sea. Every season brings something new, whether it’s on the beaches, along winding footpaths, or beneath the canopy of the woods.

There is nowhere else I would rather be.

It’s home.

Listening More Closely

Earlier this month I downloaded the Merlin Bird ID app, which identifies birds by their song. Since then, I’ve been using it on my short walk before work, following the same three minute stretch between two gates alongside the railway line.

https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/download/

During what has been a busy period, it has encouraged me to slow down and pay attention to the sounds around me. Photography has always helped me notice the world more carefully, but this experience has reminded me that sometimes it’s enough simply to stop and listen.

While wandering beside the river, I also took the opportunity to photograph the area. Familiar places often reveal something new when you take the time to look.

Favourites

Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story

I stumbled across this documentary on Channel 4 on demand and was completely drawn in. It follows the story of a man living in Shetland who gradually forms an extraordinary bond with a wild otter. Over the course of a year, the relationship grows and changes, becoming a wonderfully gentle story about nature and human connection.

One line stayed with me long after it finished.

“Beauty is a powerful thing when it catches you off guard.”

As photographers, we often go looking for beauty, chasing the perfect light or the perfect location. But the moments that stay with us are often the ones we never expected.

June’s Soundtrack

Continuing my favourites again, with the music that has shaped my daily work and caught my attention over June.

• Afterglow, Ed Sheeran

• What Is Life, George Harrison

• The Wild, Mumford & Sons

• Here, Mumford & Sons featuring Sierra Ferrell

• What You Know, Two Door Cinema Club

• Man in the Arena, The Script

• Sirius, The Alan Parsons Project

• Bennie and the Jets, Elton John

• No Tomorrow, Orson

• The Sun Will Never Settle, Kingfishr

The camera didn't take me as far this month, but it helped me look a little closer. And sometimes that's exactly what we need. A reminder that beauty isn't always found somewhere else. More often than not, it's been there all along, waiting for us to notice it.

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your thoughts and which images stood out. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

Leave a comment

Latest Posts

As the island came into view, it felt like stepping into another world. It reminded me of that first glimpse of the island in Jurassic Park. There was something magical about it, something almost prehistoric. After stepping ashore, we were greeted by the famous 87 steps that climb up from the landing. It is quite the welcome to Skomer, a small island just off the Pembrokeshire coast.

It is difficult to put into words just how special this trip was. It deserved a post of its own.

I would not describe myself as a wildlife photographer. My photography has always been rooted in landscapes and food. Wildlife has simply become another part of my practice whenever the opportunity presents itself. When the chance came to get up close with puffins, I grabbed it with both hands and a 2x teleconverter.

Skomer Island is one of the UK’s most important seabird colonies and is perhaps best known for its puffins. This year the island recorded 10,000 more puffins, than previous years remarkable increase and a real conservation success.

Puffins return to the same burrows each spring, often reuniting with the same mate to raise a single chick. They can live for up to 30 years, and after spending time on the island it really feels as though they are the true owners of the place.

My only real photographic goal was to come home with two images. The first was a close portrait of a puffin. The second was a wider photograph showing one or two puffins within the landscape they call home. I wanted the wider image to tell the story of their environment, not just the bird itself.

As soon as we landed, we made our way to The Wick, one of the best places on the island to see puffins. We spent much of the day there, watching, waiting and photographing the birds as they went about their lives. Some of the images were the ones I had hoped for. Others were completely unexpected.

If I have one piece of advice for anyone hoping to photograph wildlife here, it is to stay observant. It is easy to become glued to the camera’s viewfinder and miss what is happening around you. One moment you might be standing alone on the path, and the next a puffin is flying straight towards you or waddling casually past your feet.

Most of what they are doing revolves around their burrows, collecting nesting material, greeting their partners and preparing for the breeding season. Despite the steady stream of visitors, they seem remarkably tolerant of the humans watching them with cameras in hand.

During our visit we spotted an incredible variety of birds, including:

• Puffins

• Razorbills

• Oystercatchers

• Swallows

• Jackdaws

• Short-eared owls

• Herring gulls

• Great black-backed gulls

• Choughs

• Crows

• Dunnocks

Closing thoughts

After a day wandering the island, I came away with a genuine affection for these wonderful little birds. They are charming, chaotic and endlessly entertaining. They waddle with purpose, crash land with surprising enthusiasm and constantly interact with one another in ways that make it impossible not to smile.

I am certain I will return one day, with fresh eyes, a little more experience and, perhaps, an even greater appreciation for this remarkable place.

As the boat pulled away from Skomer and the island slowly disappeared behind us. I had arrived hoping to photograph puffins, but I left with something far more valuable. A deeper appreciation for a place that feels wonderfully wild and for the birds that have called it home for generations. It is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left and I already know I’ll be back.

The logistics of visiting Skomer are well documented, so I will not spend too much time covering them here. The one thing I would recommend is booking well in advance, especially during puffin season, as places fill up quickly.

Thank you for reading. I hope these photographs have given you a small glimpse into the magic of Skomer and its remarkable inhabitants. I’d love to know which image is your favourite. Until next time, keep exploring and never lose your sense of wonder.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

Leave a comment

Recent Posts

On this occasion, the prospects were not great. A huge bank of cloud stretched across the North Sea and the dull sky did little to inspire confidence. There was more than a hint of trepidation that we might be greeted by a heavy downpour.

I had not been out with the camera for myself in a while. For one reason or another, I had chosen rest over photography at weekends. The prospect of a brooding sky was not really what I had hoped to capture.

Undeterred, I headed further onto the beach. I had an idea in mind based on a photograph from my last visit at the end of last year. The heavy cloud to the south and out across the sea became my focus, and I began to consider how best to frame the cottage against such a dramatic backdrop.

As the rain started to fall, I began walking back towards the car. Thankfully, it was only a brief shower. Passing the lagoon on my way back, I stopped to capture a few of the classic compositions that so many photographers seek out here.

Within minutes, the light began to change. That earlier trepidation faded and was replaced by a sense of awe. The scene was transformed from dull and uneventful light into a champagne-coloured sky bursting into life. The feeling of frustration gave way to hope, reminding me that life is not about holding on through the storm, but about looking for the light when faced with darkness.

Both metaphorically and physically, this location is all about change.

Since my first visits more than ten years ago, the shingle has shifted dramatically, leaving the landscape noticeably different from what it once was. Along this coastline, places such as Thorpeness and Bawdsey continue to feel the effects of the sea, and the movement of the shingle provides a visible reminder of the forces constantly reshaping the coast. I have often sat on this beach contemplating how much it has changed within my lifetime and long before I ever started visiting.

It is not only the landscape that changes. The weather is equally unpredictable, given its proximity to the North Sea and the entrance to the River Ore. Yet every time I visit, I leave feeling lighter. There is something profound about its isolation.

That sense of isolation is a defining part of Shingle Street. With only one road leading in, it truly feels like the end of the world. That remoteness is part of its appeal and one of the reasons I continue to return. I never know what will greet me, whether it is the changing conditions, the shifting coastline or the seasonal changes.

I will leave you with an image from 2016. It feels very different now and carries a different character, yet it remains a place of isolation, hope and change. It reminds me that although life and landscapes evolve, some places remain familiar. At the end of a road, Shingle Street still feels like home.

Thank you for reading. I'd love to hear your thoughts and which image stood out most. Until next time, may you find a little light beyond the storm.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

Leave a comment

Recent Posts

May was one of those months that reminded me why I always carry a camera. From sunrise on the Suffolk coast to puffins on Skomer Island, nature provided no shortage of memorable moments. A nest box full of Great Tit chicks on our allotment, along with honey bees, butterflies and a little Robin that kept visiting, there was plenty to enjoy. Here are a few of those moments for you to enjoy too.

A few wanders before work also provided some memorable moments. I was treated to one of the most impressive sunrises I have seen in a while at Shingle Street, and I took a trip to Wales to explore the Pembrokeshire coast.

Hope after darkness

I visit the stretch of coast at Shingle Street regularly, but driving there on this occasion brought a little sense of dread. The weather was not what I had planned for. A huge bank of cloud sat over the North Sea and the prospect of a heavy downpour was something I had not expected.

Not wanting to be put off by the conditions, I wandered onto the beach looking to create some moodier images that incorporated the dramatic clouds and changing weather.

After a while, with the heavens threatening to open, I decided to head back to the car. The lagoon was on the way, so I stopped to make a few more images. What happened next made the trip worthwhile. The sky slowly began to clear as the sun rose, producing a glorious display of colour that was perfectly reflected in the lagoon.

It was a real reminder that, even when the weather appears against you, everything can change in an instant. Just like in life, this can stand as a reminder that hope will prevail even in the darkest of moments.

Heading to the rugged South Coast of Wales

I took a weekend trip to Wales, with the main aim being a visit to Skomer Island, which I will talk about later. It happened to coincide with the hottest weekend of the year so far, with clear blue skies throughout. These are not usually the conditions I look for, but it was a challenge worth embracing.

The rugged Pembrokeshire coast offers countless opportunities to capture the way the landscape has been shaped over millions of years. Towering cliffs, dramatic rock formations and chapels built into the rock all tell part of the story.

We visited Church Doors Cove, St Govan’s Chapel, Tenby, Elegug Stacks and the Green Bridge of Wales. This allowed me to capture a mixture of images, from daytime coastal scenes to sunset photographs at Freshwater West Beach during the golden hour.

A Magical trip to Skomer Island

Visiting the island was a truly magical experience that I will never forget. The opportunity to watch puffins in their natural habitat was incredible and something I feel fortunate to have witnessed.

They are charming and entertaining birds, constantly moving around the cliff edges and interacting with one another. While I would not describe myself as a wildlife photographer, photographing birds was one of the first things I learned when I picked up a camera, so this felt like a special opportunity.

My goal was simple: capture one strong close-up portrait of a puffin and one wider image showing it within its environment. Everything else was a bonus. In the end, I’ve edited more than twenty images so far that I feel are worthy of sharing. I would like to think I will return one day.

Soundtrack of the Month

Continuing my favourites again, with the music that has shaped my daily work and caught my attention over May.

• Where the Streets Have No Name — U2

• Stop the Clocks — Noel Gallagher / Oasis

• Honest — Dermot Kennedy

• Half the World Away — Oasis

• Crash — The Primitives

• You Won’t Feel a Thing — The Script

• Last Train Home — John Mayer

• Some Might Say — Oasis

As May came to a close last week, I find myself grateful for the opportunities to spend time outdoors and witness these moments. Whether it was a dramatic sunrise at Shingle Street, exploring the rugged Pembrokeshire coast, or watching puffins go about their lives on Skomer, each experience offered a reminder of why I love photography. I'm happy to look back on a month filled with wildlife, nature and a few unforgettable moments behind the camera.

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your thoughts and which images stood out. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

Leave a comment

Recent Posts

This time of year always pulls me back to bluebells. I found myself returning to the woods, first somewhere new and then to a familiar spot I visit each spring. Both offered something completely different from what I had experienced before.

We also released the video I have been working on for the past five months. That was a real milestone. It was a passion project in every sense and seeing it out in the world felt like a quiet but meaningful achievement.

New Bluebell Woods

The first trip took me back to a woodland I had last visited years ago in autumn. Even then, I knew spring would be the time to return. It just took me until now to make it happen.

I arrived at sunrise and spent the early hours wandering slowly, taking in the atmosphere as much as the images. The sound of the dawn chorus, the softness of the light and the bluebells stretching across the woodland floor created a sense of calm that is hard to replicate.

We began in a smaller section of the woods, working through a few compositions. When you are somewhere unfamiliar, there is a natural slowing down that happens. You pay closer attention. You learn as you go. At first, it was about finding my bearings and trusting the experience I have built over time.

Later, we met a few others who were equally drawn to the early morning conditions. They suggested we head deeper into the woodland where the bluebells were more abundant. It was a worthwhile detour and led to a handful of images I was genuinely pleased with. The light had become a little harsher by then, but the canopy softened it just enough to keep everything balanced.

The Mist Softens

In the days leading up to the next shoot, I found myself checking the usual things. Weather, conditions, small details that can shape a morning. A misty start was forecast for Saturday, which immediately made the decision for me.

I had a few locations in mind, but this woodland felt right.

Walking through the gate, I already knew where I was heading. The bluebells were the focus this time. On a previous visit earlier in the year, I had explored other parts of the woodland, knowing it was too early for them. This time was different.

The mist added something special. It gave depth and atmosphere in a way that is difficult to plan but always worth chasing. In the past, I had seen hints of it here, usually with sunlight breaking through. This morning felt more complete.

As I reached the main area, it was clear I was not the only one with the same idea. A misty woodland has a way of drawing photographers out early. There was a quiet sense of shared purpose as we all moved through the space, each finding our own compositions within the same conditions.

Commercial Work

Releasing a passion project at work

Where there’s tea, there’s history

Proud moment seeing months of work come to life.

I’m excited to share our documentary-style video, Where there’s tea, there’s history, created for The Swan at Lavenham. Over the past few months I’ve been capturing a story that goes far beyond a cup and saucer…

Watch the full video below:

From the start, my aim was to do justice to the story behind both the hotel and the crockery. It begins more than 500 years ago with the building of The Swan and carries through to today, shaped by the people and partnerships behind the new afternoon tea collection. Each element of the crockery reflects part of that history.

Along the way I had the chance to meet and learn from some incredible collaborators, each contributing their own perspective. Filming took us to Lavenham, both at the hotel and around the village, where we spoke with Lienne, and then on to Stoke-on-Trent to visit the Roy Kirkham factory speaking with Ian and Jonathan and capturing the process so you can see the craftsmanship behind the crockery now used in the hotel.

There was a pause in production personally towards the end of last year due to illness and a short hospital stay, but we picked things back up in mid January and worked steadily towards the final film. What started as a set of storyboards in October gradually evolved into something much richer. The process became a genuine passion project and pushed me to develop new skills and a deeper understanding of documentary storytelling.

The project grew far beyond what I first imagined, shaped not only by creative decisions but also by a few unexpected challenges along the way. I’m grateful to have been part of telling this story and bringing it together in a way that others can now experience.

You can find out more about the project here
https://theswanatlavenham.co.uk/discover/our-crockery/

Food Photoshoots Galore

April was also shaped by a number of shoots across several hotels and restaurants. It was a shift in pace and subject, moving between fine dining and more relaxed settings, but one that kept things varied and engaging. Those assignments made the quieter weekends in the woods feel even more valuable. Here are a selection of those images taken over the last month.

Monthly Listening

Continuing my favourites again, with the music that has shaped my daily work and caught my attention over April.

• Gas Panic by Oasis

• Flight to Neverland from Hook by John Williams

• Lucky Man by Richard Ashcroft

• Gimme Shelter by The Rolling Stones

• Last Train Home (Ballad version) by John Mayer

• Honest by Dermot Kennedy

• O by Coldplay

• Donkey by Bessie Turner

• Let’s All Make Believe by Oasis

• Inhaler by Foals

• The Masterplan by Oasis

April felt like a quiet reminder that progress does not always come from constant movement, but from knowing when to pause and return to what matters. Between the structure of work and the stillness of the woods, there was a balance that began to take shape. It is something I am hoping to carry forward into the months ahead, along with the sense of patience and intention that came with it.

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your thoughts and which images stood out. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

Leave a comment

Read here

Mist and fog transformed the place. They gave me the chance to revisit old compositions and discover new ones. Some of those “old” images had lingered from previous trips, ideas that never quite worked at the time but suddenly made sense under a softer, quieter atmosphere. Others were scenes I’d walked past before, dismissing them as unremarkable, only to find they came alive in these conditions.

It felt a bit like being a kid in a sweet shop. The usual chaos of the woodland was subdued by the mist, simplifying the scene and revealing structure. I’ve always found woodlands calming, especially at dawn, but with the added layer of fog everything felt more deliberate. Shapes separated. Compositions became clearer, easier to see.

Small Woodland

I started in a smaller, denser part of the woods, wandering slowly and revisiting ideas I’d noted before. The mist created a natural separation between elements, allowing those previously unsuccessful compositions to finally work.

There’s an intimacy to this area. Even with some larger trees present, the closeness of everything, combined with the atmosphere, made the process feel more focused and immersive. It would have been easy to stay there all morning, but I was conscious that the mist might not last and I didn’t want to miss the chance to explore further.

Oaks

Beyond the smaller section, a public footpath runs alongside the main woodland. The woods themselves are private, but the path offers glimpses in. I switched to a wider lens and began working along its edge.

Here, the trees dominate. Old oaks stand like individuals with distinct personalities, demanding attention. The challenge is deciding whether to isolate them, letting their forms speak for themselves, or to include their surroundings to give a sense of scale and presence.

Characters

It’s hard not to think of these trees as characters. Their limbs twist and reach in unpredictable ways, each one shaped by time and environment. Some are as wide as they are tall, towering overhead in ways that only really register when you stand beneath them.

I revisited a few familiar trees that morning, hoping to capture them in these conditions. Some I’d photographed before in similar light, but each visit offers something slightly different. There’s a quiet strength in how they occupy space, other trees bending around them, adapting to their presence.

Daffodils, Silver Birches and a Cottage

One thing I hadn’t seen here before was the daffodils in bloom. They appear to have been planted near a small cottage in the woods, likely by the people who live there or the nearby farmer. They added a welcome contrast, small bursts of colour against the muted tones of the mist.

I spent some time working with them, exploring how they could anchor a composition or add depth to a scene. Even subtle changes in colour can shift the balance of an image and here they offered something new to play with.

Here is a short video from my wander around.

I know I’ll return to this woodland again. Places like this are never static, they shift with the seasons, the weather and the light. Each visit feels like seeing it for the first time.

Looking back at the images now, what stays with me most is the sense of calm from that morning, the quiet, unhurried feeling of walking through the woods as everything slowly revealed itself.

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your thoughts and which images stood out. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

Leave a comment

Latest Posts

Misty mornings defined much of early spring. I made a couple of trips to photograph local woodland shrouded in fog, spent time along the promenade at Felixstowe and made an early visit to Aldeburgh before work. A particularly successful trip to Constable Country became one of the highlights of the month. I also headed out on the final weekend to capture sunrise at Felixstowe, which felt like a fitting way to close out March

Work has been busy as well, with photoshoots for new menus across three hotels, including two separate afternoon tea shoots. Alongside this, I am close to finishing a video project that has been in progress for the past few months.

A Woodland with Potential

I returned to a small woodland and nature reserve with the intention of finding new compositions. There was hope of mist that morning. While the surrounding area was covered, it did not fully break through the canopy. I made a few images, but more importantly, it became a valuable scouting trip for the future.

Mist Amongst the Ancients

This was a moment where timing and conditions aligned. I had a few days off at the start of the month and kept a close eye on the weather. There was a possibility of mist and fog, though nothing guaranteed. I have a number of locations in mind for these conditions and this woodland is one of them, though this visit felt different.

The wood is dense with ancient oaks, some of which may have stood for over 400 years. The canopy is heavy, and it is rare to see fog settle within it. After seeing how the conditions had developed near home, I knew it was worth heading out.

I began in the main section of the woodland, revisiting compositions that had never quite worked without mist. From there, I followed the path toward the edge of the oaks, exploring both familiar and new perspectives.

This is a place I will return to and a full post on this trip will follow.

Mist on the Promenade

Later that same day, I walked along the promenade at Felixstowe. Still wrapped in mist, it felt like an entirely different place. Familiar surroundings took on an almost otherworldly quality, softened and simplified by the conditions.

Wandering in Aldeburgh

As with many of my visits tied to work, I begin by wandering. I take images both for the hotels and for myself. On this occasion, I found myself drawn again to a developing personal project I call Portals. Doorways and windows continue to catch my attention across the different places I visit, and this collection is steadily growing.

A Misty Morning in Constable Country

With part of the A12 closed in north Suffolk, I headed south toward Essex and on to Flatford, on the border. This area is better known as Constable Country. With the 250th anniversary of John Constable’s birth this year, I wanted to spend time exploring the landscape that shaped his work.

I made my way to Willy Lott’s Cottage, made famous by Constable’s 1821 painting The Haywain. I spent time photographing along the river, capturing the cottage and the mill buildings beyond, before moving out into the surrounding vale.

Once again, the mist settled in. Moving through it, I stayed close to the river, using it as a guide. Visibility was limited, which made the experience feel more focused and intentional. As the sun began to break through, the light caught the moisture in the air, creating a soft glow across the landscape.

Moments like this reward patience. It is easy to be overwhelmed, but slowing down allows the subjects to reveal themselves more clearly.

I will return here again this year and hope to visit some of the exhibitions marking Constable’s anniversary. I may share more from those experiences in time.

Felixstowe Pier and the Waves

On the final weekend of the month, I returned to the coast for sunrise at Felixstowe. The pier was my main focus. I have photographed it before, but this time I spent longer exploring both sides with a good friend.

I worked with long exposures using ND filters to smooth the water, and also spent time capturing the movement at the shoreline. The patterns in the water continue to draw me in, the ripples, swirls and reflections of light shifting constantly.

Focusing closely on the surface reveals a quieter, more abstract side of the sea. It is something I used to return to often at sunrise and it felt good to revisit that approach.

Commercial Work

The past few weeks have been busy at The Hotel Folk as we roll out new spring menus across the hotels, with more still to come. There are additional shoots planned in the coming weeks as we continue developing upcoming launches.

I have captured a range of images over the past month. Some are tied to projects that have yet to be released, so I will share those at a later date.

Video

Over the past few months, I have really enjoyed filming and editing across several projects at work. Toward the end of last year, we began producing a short documentary-style film focused on the new afternoon tea crockery for The Swan. Alongside this, I have been working on an internal video that I am unable to share, but it has been a rewarding process.

I’m looking forward to sharing the finished documentary in the coming weeks once it is released.

Monthly Listening

Continuing my favourites again, with the music that has shaped my daily work and caught my attention over March.

• Under Pressure — Queen

• Once — Liam Gallagher

• Heroes — David Bowie

• Banjo Song — Mumford and Sons

• We Didn’t Start the Fire — Billy Joel

• Refuge — Dermot Kennedy

• Politik — Coldplay

• Rooting for You — London Grammar

As winter gave way to spring, March offered moments of stillness, softness, and change. It’s a month I’ll remember for its atmosphere as much as the images themselves, and a reminder that the quietest conditions often leave the strongest impression.

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your thoughts and which images stood out. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

Leave a comment

Recent Posts

But now, as we roll into spring and brighter days ahead, I want to celebrate the season in a way I love most: through the lens. Over my career as a photographer, I have always been drawn to the subtle, powerful shifts that come with spring, the way the world wakes from its long winter sleep.

Spring is a season of transformation. The hawthorn buds, the fresh greens of trees, the carpets of wild garlic and bluebells that brighten woodland floors, all these signs of renewal never fail to stir a sense of wonder. The colours shift, the air changes and the light itself seems gentler, more generous.

The last couple of months have tested the patience of many. The rain has barely let up and fleeting flashes of sun have teased more than comforted. But even in those brief glimpses, there is a reminder: spring is arriving, and with it, hope.

With the equinox just around the corner, there is something poetic in the timing. The world’s hibernation is ending. Blooms appear, blossoms unfurl, and the air carries a quiet promise: life continues and it begins again, brighter than before.

Images from past springs that have stayed with me.

As spring unfolds, the world awakens and with it, we do too. Each bloom, each shift of light, is a small reminder to step out of hibernation and embrace hope. I’m looking forward to getting out with the camera in the coming months to capture more of these conditions, changes and colours.

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your thoughts and which images stood out. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

Leave a comment

Latest Posts

This February ended up being mostly about work. I did manage one trip that was purely for myself, but much of the month was spent travelling for work and trying to avoid the worst of the grey, rainy weather.

I had a few days off in the middle of the month, though the conditions never quite inspired much time outdoors. Winter has a way of doing that sometimes. Even when you have the time, the light and weather can make it hard to find the motivation.

Still, there were a few small moments with the camera that made the month worthwhile.

Back down at Felixstowe Beach

My one trip purely for myself this month was to Felixstowe, to a stretch of beach I used to visit regularly.

Over the past few years I have found myself going less often, but it still holds an important place for me. It is where I learnt many of the techniques I still use today, particularly when it comes to working with moving water and long exposures.

The conditions were far from ideal. There was the suggestion of a sunrise somewhere behind the clouds, but it never quite broke through. Even so, part of the process is learning to work with whatever you are given.

I spent some time wandering along the edge of the beach toward a section where the shingle has shifted and reshaped the shoreline. Places like this are always changing slightly, which makes returning to them interesting.

Afterwards I headed back toward the old sea defences to watch the waves as they rolled in and collapsed back across the shore. These are the kinds of photographs that rely less on dramatic conditions and more on observation. Watching how the water moves, how it curls and swirls around the wooden structures, and waiting for the moment where it all comes together.

They are simple images in many ways, but they are also the kind that quietly build your understanding of a place.

Orford Portals

A trip to Orford for work gave me the chance to have a short wander with the camera.

The main purpose of the visit was to photograph parts of the local area for work, but I always try to take a little time to capture a few images for myself as well. Often these are photographs that would not necessarily work for marketing. They tend to be quieter ideas that I have been wanting to explore for a while.

This time I found myself drawn to doors, gates, and openings. I kept thinking about them as small portals.

There is something interesting about the idea that a doorway represents a transition. You step through and you move from one place into another. Sometimes it feels almost like stepping into a different moment in time. Places like Orford, with their layers of history, seem to lend themselves to that kind of thinking.

Work

Much of February was spent working on an internal video project, which was a fun process to be involved in.

Alongside that I photographed a new set of images for one of our hotels. This included desserts and afternoon tea as well as a collection of photographs showing the surrounding local area. The aim was to present the hotel and its setting from a slightly different perspective.

Projects like this are always interesting because they combine creative work with practical storytelling.

What I enjoyed this month

Daisy Jones and the Six

I arrived a little late to this one, but I recently started watching Daisy Jones and the Six and quickly got pulled into it.

The series explores the music world of the 1970s and is based on the novel of the same name. It takes inspiration from the story of Fleetwood Mac and presents itself through a mixture of documentary-style interviews and drama.

That format works surprisingly well. It gives the show the feeling of watching a band’s history unfold while still telling a fictional story. If you enjoy music from that era it is definitely worth watching.

Watch Here

Prizefighter - Mumford and Sons

I was lucky enough to see Mumford and Sons live late last year, so I was already looking forward to their new album.

Since it came out at the end of February it has been on repeat while I work and while I am driving. I am someone who enjoys listening to albums from start to finish rather than jumping between songs and this is one that rewards that kind of listening.

What I enjoy most is that it feels like a return to the sound of their earlier work. The acoustic instruments and the banjo have found their way back into the mix, which gives the music the same energy that drew me to their first albums.

Songs like Banjo Song and Prizefighter have that familiar feel, while tracks such as Run Together, Conversations With My Son, and Clover show Marcus Mumford’s songwriting at its best.

It is the kind of album that will probably stay in rotation for the next few months.

Monthly Listening

Here are a few of my favourites on my playlists for this month.

Get It On — T. Rex
Roll It Over (Knebworth Live) — Liam Gallagher
Seventeen Going Under — Sam Fender
Pacifier — Catfish and the Bottlemen
Run Together — Mumford & Sons
The Cave — Mumford & Sons
Columbia (Sawmills Outtakes) — Oasis
The Blade — Kingfishr

February may not have delivered dramatic skies or perfect conditions, but months like this still matter. They are the ones where you quietly keep showing up with the camera, paying attention to the smaller details, and letting ideas develop slowly.

Sometimes photography is about chasing spectacular moments. Other times it is simply about wandering, observing, and continuing to build that connection with the places you return to again and again.

With spring slowly starting to appear on the horizon, I am hoping the next few months will bring a little more light and a few more reasons to head out exploring.

Leave a comment

Other posts

As I wandered at sunrise, the conditions were not favourable for focusing entirely on the sunrise itself. Instead, the intimate and unique scenes left behind on the beach became my main focus.

The water’s edge can hold many small scenes. The key to seeing them is taking your time and slowing down your practice.

The sad part is that the beach and coastline are slowly crumbling, succumbing to the sheer force of the sea. The shoreline is changing constantly. The pillbox sitting on the tideline is a testament to that erosion.

The water had shaped and furrowed the sand, silt, and debris through its constant ebb and flow. As the tide slowly declined, more shapes, undulations, and movement were revealed. This exercise is all about observation. About seeing the intimate and ephemeral moments that exist only briefly. They last only as long as the tide allows, before being lost and reshaped again.

The Art of Slowing

The real art lies in slowing down. In being curious with every step and allowing yourself to find images where they lie. The world we live in is built on pace and speed, and photography is often no different. On this occasion, I allowed myself to be guided by the beach and to wander wherever my feet led me, making sure I didn’t slip as I wandered across the London clay.

There is also an art in noticing. Over the past year I have tried to practise this more intentionally. It is about giving yourself time to explore, to stop, and to discover compositions that might otherwise go unseen. If something catches my eye, I try to capture it.

Walks before work, especially when visiting the hotels I work with, have become a great source for this practice. Whether it is the timber framed buildings in Lavenham or the boats and fishing gear on the beach at Aldeburgh, there are always opportunities to observe. Learning to seek out these moments over the past year has strengthened that observational muscle.

These moments last only as long as the tide allows, before being lost and reshaped again.

Tidelines

As the tide shifts, lines of sand are left behind by the retreating waves. They are not immediately obvious until you focus your attention on the water’s edge. The way light interacts with the wet sand helps to reveal them.

These lines are subtle. They require your eye to slow down enough to see them emerge as the tide rolls back. They become small studies in form and texture, along with the other fragments left behind by the rise and fall of the sea.

Undulating

Along this stretch of beach, the sand seems to mimic the movement of the waves that shape it. The rolling, undulating surface is deeply pleasing to the eye.

Furrows in the sand, along with deposits of crushed shells, settle into the darker wet sand and create natural contrast.

At sunrise the light is low, and not all of the sand is illuminated. A fine catch light rests across the tops of the ripples. The undulating forms give these ridges delicate gilded edges. The contrast between light and shadow across this sea formed landscape adds depth and texture.

Deposits

With every tide, shells, rocks, and sand are churned up and left along the water’s edge. They remain only temporarily before the sea takes them back. Though simple and familiar, these elements make perfect subjects for images.

The cliff continues to crumble, leaving more debris to be folded back into the sea. Shells, pebbles and fragments of all kinds gather along the shore, each one part of the coastline’s ongoing transformation.

Sandscapes

Formed by the slow trickle of the tide across the sand, these shapes and undulations carry the memory of movement. They are created by water left behind as the tide retreats, by run off from the surrounding cliff, and by every trace of moisture finding its way back to the sea.

Deposits from darker rocks and London clay introduce an additional layer of colour across the surface. Silt and crushed shells, churned repeatedly in the cycle of the waves, seem to rise to the top. Their density of texture and tone settles into a quiet balance against the lighter sand beneath.

There is an irony in all of this. While this feels like a call to slow down in your photography, the sea itself is never slow. The water crashes and rolls against the shore with relentless force. The speed at which parts of our coastline have shifted in recent years is striking, even alarming. Entire sections have been reshaped or removed altogether by the sea.

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your thoughts and which images stood out. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

Leave a comment

January has been an interesting month for my photography. I have been back out with the camera again in my spare time, which has been good for getting out and exploring after a period of not doing much personal work. It wasn’t easy to step back into it after some time away from shooting purely for myself, but it felt important to try.

I was able to capture the snow down by Woodbridge Tide Mill, and I also headed back to the coast to revisit the same stretch of beach, exploring both ends of it. At work, things have been a little quieter on the photoshoot front, although I did have a combined day of photography and video to promote a new afternoon tea at one of our hotels.

Snow along the Deben

We had a light flurry of snow overnight in early January and, by chance, I was already in Woodbridge for work. Having travelled there, I took the opportunity to wander down to the river. The banks of the Deben were a great place to capture both the conditions and the familiar landmarks together.

Sunrise wasn’t until later that morning, so my decision to get into work early turned out to be timely. I was really hoping to capture the Tide Mill cloaked in snow and on this occasion, it was simply a case of being in the right place at the right time. Snow is not something we see often in this part of the world and being so close to the coast, it never sticks around for long, so it felt important to make the most of it while it lasted.

Back out on the Coast

This particular morning was fairly dull and the drive down even included a light shower. Not ideal conditions for the first coastal trip of the year. That said, I love this beach and it has changed significantly since my last visit. The shifting nature of the coastline here has become increasingly apparent, with certain areas being slowly taken by the strength of the sea.

My attention was immediately drawn to the old concrete sea defences, scattered and broken by the relentless tidal movement. These triangular structures looked very different from how I remembered them, having shifted and emerged from the sand and shingle. The way the sea has been reshaping this stretch of coast over the last few years has really highlighted how much the shoreline has drifted south, away from many of the beaches along the Suffolk coast.

After photographing the concrete structures, I spent some time looking for other compositions. My main aim was to capture the movement of the waves as they rolled in and out across the beach. Some surges were heavier than others and in the end, I stood waiting for around ten minutes for the tide to reach higher up the shore. It continued to rise throughout my visit.

I love making images like these. There is a real sense of anticipation involved. While there is a formula to it, built from years of shooting similar scenes, knowing the right settings and recognising the exact moment when the water pulls back makes all the difference to the final image.

Temporary landscapes

Another weekend brought another trip to the coast, this time to catch the sunrise at the northern end of the same beach I had visited the week before. The skies were clear, with only minimal cloud.

I headed straight down to the beach and made my way to the old pillbox that sits close to the low tide line. With the conditions as they were, my eye was drawn to the changing tide, the shapes it created and the temporary nature of the landscape. The movement of the waves formed ripples, undulations and deposits left behind by the sea, constantly shifting and reshaping the surface.

I have half written a separate post exploring this idea in more depth, which I will be sharing in the next few weeks. Do subscribe to have it delivered to your inbox.

Creativity at work

My work recently has been focused on a project I started last year. Partway through I became ill, so it was put on hold until now. The project centres around the launch of a new set of crockery at one of our hotels. I have been working on a documentary style video that follows the process from concept to final piece, involving all the key people along the way. I will share it here once it is complete.

I also photographed afternoon tea at one of our hotels. It felt good to be back on a photoshoot. I did feel a little rusty at first, but I soon settled into it and captured the standard of images we aim for with this kind of promotion.

Favourites

Patience, Channel 4

This is the second instalment of the crime drama following Patience, an autistic archive clerk whose sharp analytical mind helps unravel complex cases in York. I have always enjoyed this type of show and it is refreshing to see investigations approached from a different perspective. The slower pace allows you time to think alongside the characters and try to piece together the mystery yourself.

https://www.channel4.com/programmes/patience

Landscape Artist of the Year, Sky Arts

I have always been drawn to art and creativity, this series brings together two worlds I love: landscape and making. It goes beyond painting alone, exploring a wide range of approaches and techniques while delving into the relationship artists have with the landscapes they interpret.

https://skyartsartistoftheyear.tv/landscape-artist-of-the-year/

Monthly Listening

Something new for these monthly posts. I will be sharing a selection of songs I have been enjoying. Music plays a huge role in my day-to-day life, especially while working, designing and editing, so it feels right to include it here.

The Banjo Song by Mumford and Sons
Opening Night by Arctic Monkeys
C’mon You Know by Liam Gallagher
Fruit Bat by Of Monsters and Men
Signal Fire by Seafret
It’s Only Us by Robbie Williams, mainly for FIFA 2000 nostalgia
Cigarettes and Alcohol by Oasis

Give this playlist a listen:

January felt less about outcomes and more about showing up. Getting back out with the camera, revisiting familiar places and paying attention to subtle changes was enough. These quiet moments of looking and waiting are often where the work begins again, even if the results take time to fully reveal themselves.

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your thoughts and which images stood out. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

This post focuses on that week in the Peak District. It was a wonderful stretch of time exploring the national park, moving between waterfalls and cascades, early mornings on the edges at sunrise, old mines and woodland wrapped in mist.

From the waterfalls of Padley Gorge to sunrise on Curbar Edge, from the isolation of Magpie Mine to the rolling falls of Wyming Brook, it was an unforgettable week.

It was also a lesson in learning to shoot the conditions in completely new surroundings. Living in Suffolk, the terrain and subject matter are very different from the hills and waterfalls of the Peaks. It was a challenge and one I really enjoyed working through.

If you are reading this via email, you may not be able to see all of the images.
Please visit it here via your internet browser.

Padley Gorge in autumn flow

Our first visit to Padley Gorge became a story of cascades, autumn colour and lost filters. It was our first full day and after checking the forecast, we chose Padley Gorge because the recent wet weather promised stronger flowing water.

Walking past the train station and cafe, the woodland immediately felt like an autumn wonderland. My main focus was getting my head around photographing waterfalls and cascades in this kind of environment. Although this was no different to a seascape with a game of anticipation as the water flowed past.

November was the perfect time to visit. The oranges, yellows and russets were close to their peak and formed a rich backdrop to the flowing water.

I photographed several cascades, but the first one will always stick in my memory. I climbed into the water and got low to capture the movement. In the process, my filter holder slipped into the brook and disappeared completely. A memorable start to the week. I carried on regardless and refused to let it spoil the experience.

A full day along Wyming Brook

After Padley Gorge the day before, we felt far more confident tackling the waterfalls and cascades at Wyming Brook.

Everything came together here. The light, the conditions and the surroundings meant I could really focus on how I wanted to capture each cascade along the brook. The recent wet weather paid off again, with fast-flowing water weaving its way around rocks and debris.

We arrived in the morning and spent almost the entire day walking the length of the brook. By the end, we were completely exhausted, but it was a hugely successful day photographing a landscape shaped entirely by water.

Isolation and history at Magpie Mine

One morning, we headed to Bakewell for a slower start. After visiting the church on the hill and stopping for food, we made our way to Magpie Mine.

This is a place steeped in history. A former lead mine, the old buildings, winches and pulleys still stand as a testament to earlier ways of working. The setting feels isolated, perched on a gentle rise and surrounded by open land.

The industrial nature of the site lends itself perfectly to infrared photography. I spent time moving around the main buildings using my Hoya infrared filter, trying to capture the character of the old Cornish-style structures. The metalwork and machinery added strong visual elements to the images.

It was not just about wide scenes. The derelict textures, shapes and details offered just as much to work with.

First light on Curbar Edge

Spending a week in the Peaks meant an early morning trip to one of the edges was essential. Staying close to Curbar Edge made a sunrise shoot manageable.

We arrived in good time and walked up onto the edge while it was still dark. We waited quietly as the first light began to appear.

I started by looking for simple compositions, focusing on the rock formations and the face of the edge. The striations and shapes immediately drew my attention. As the light increased, I worked my way carefully along the rocks.

Looking out into the valley, I tried to capture the cloud and fog as it rolled through, partially obscuring the view of Baslow below.

Returning to Padley Gorge in the mist

Having visited Padley Gorge at the start of the week, we returned from the opposite direction on our final day. We were lucky to wake up to a misty morning. Driving conditions were poor but the atmosphere made it worthwhile.

After parking in a lay-by, the walk into the woodland was straightforward. I focused first on the woodland itself. Gnarled trees, old millstones and autumn colour became the main subjects. I spent time exploring both sides of the gorge.

The trees on the far bank were especially challenging. There was so much movement in the branches that finding a balanced composition took time. When I finally found one, it proved just as demanding during editing.

We eventually wandered back toward the road and into the Longshaw Estate. The mist and fog thickened and created perfect conditions among the trees.

Final thoughts

It was a brilliant week exploring and photographing the southern part of the national park. A whistle-stop visit with many more places still to explore in the future.

It was busy, challenging and incredibly rewarding. I still have plenty of images left to edit and revisit.

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your thoughts and which images stood out. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

Matt

Leave a comment

Over the last year, I have taken thousands of photographs, both for my personal practice and for commercial work. Looking back through them helps me understand what has held my attention and what I want to explore further.

Five Favourites

Blitz, Wyming Brook

In November I headed to the Peak District, with one of the main aims being to photograph waterfalls and cascades. I visited both Padley Gorge and Wyming Brook, focusing on the movement of water along the brooks.

This image became one of my favourites from the trip. The way the water moves through the frame and how the rest of the image is composed draws my eye through it. Although the tree trunk is quite dominant, the sense of autumn running throughout the image softens that and brings balance.

Vehemence, Westleton Heath

It had been around four years since I last visited Westleton Heath, yet this year I found myself there twice. This photograph was taken at sunrise on a bright, misty morning. The light felt perfect for open heathland filled with heather and birch trees.

My aim was to capture the brightness of a summer sunrise combined with the rich colours of the heather. This was very much a moment of being in the right place at the right time. As I wandered along one of the footpaths, I was able to frame the scene and catch the light glowing through the birches on the horizon.

White Tower, Aldham Church

Back in February, I set out with the goal of capturing churches specifically. We visited a few in one day to make the most of the travel. This church is fairly well known, especially as it appears in the BBC series Detectorists.

Its round tower is quite unique, and its location on a hill gave us a great chance to explore different perspectives. The church’s history and age really add depth to the way it’s experienced visually.

The conditions were perfect for infrared photography, bright blue skies, light cloud cover, and no wind. I worked my way around the church until I found the right composition. Sitting on top of the hill with a few trees below, the whole scene had a quiet, settled feeling that I tried to capture. this is going to become part of a large project I would like to do with churches in infrared.

Gentle Light, Suffolk

This was shot on a cold morning at a local woodland and nature reserve. It was a coming together of preparation and chance. The woodland was wrapped in mist and fog, with a hint of frost settling across the foliage.

Taken about halfway through my visit, it felt like stepping into a small wonderland of light and stillness. After wandering in from the entrance, the scene opened up and stopped me in my tracks.

Precipice, Curbar Edge

While in the Peak District, one of the main places I wanted to visit was one of the edges. We were staying close to Curbar, so it made sense to head there for sunrise.

This image was taken as I wandered along the edge, watching the light change. It was one of several photographs made there, but this one stood out for its sense of space and atmosphere.

If you are reading this via email, you may not be able to see all of the images.
Please visit it here via your internet browser.

Further favourites

Coastal

Woodland

Vignettes

Over the past year I have been leaning into what I think of as vignettes. These are quieter studies of everyday details, images that catch my eye while wandering or during brief moments before heading into work.

They are often made alongside longer photography trips, but just as often in small gaps of time before heading into work.

Textures

Throughout the year I have repeatedly found myself drawn to textures, whether it is the bark of an old oak or the ripples left in the sand after high tide. I have started to lean into this more intentionally, taking and sharing more of these images.

There are many more still waiting to be edited and processed, and they will come in time. Here are a few that stood out to me from my travels.

Another wavelength

Over the year I committed more fully to a project I want to continue exploring. Working in infrared is something I have experimented with for several years, but this year I focused it more clearly.

The main subject has been churches in Suffolk and a body of work I call Divine Light. It is about capturing light that is not normally visible and revealing a different way of seeing familiar places.

Work Favourites

Over the past year I have been involved in more than fifty photo and video shoots for work. These ranged from interiors and hotel exteriors to food for new menus, as well as capturing the Tour of Britain racing past two of our hotels.

It has been a busy and rewarding year, and I am looking forward to seeing where the next one leads. Here are a few of my favourites.

In September, I was part of an exhibition in Ipswich, find out a little more on the post below.

Updated Website

During the summer I spent some time updating my website, which needed a proper refresh. The previous update was back in 2021 during lockdown, so it felt like the right moment to revisit it and make some changes.

Do take a look if you have not already.

https://matttfinch.com/

Final words

Overall, this year has been a productive one. I am looking forward to getting out with the camera more in the year ahead and spending time developing a few new projects. The end of my year was a little chaotic due to illness, but there is hope that the new year will be better. A look through both November and December will be published in January a lot later than planned but I still feel they are worthy of being posted.

Over the past year I have planted more than one hundred trees to help offset my work and the travel involved in producing my images, calendars, and prints. See my impact here

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your thoughts and which images stood out. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.

My 2026 calendar is available on my website.
https://matttfinch.com/product/echoes-of-nature-2026-calendar/

You can also follow my recent work on Instagram at @mattt_finch.

All the best for 2026,
Matt

Leave a comment

A few favourite posts from this year.

What follows is a blend of notes I had started earlier and new reflections from the last few days.

Autumn’s Slow Turning

Autumn is in full swing, brightening the world with rusty oranges and soft yellows that gently remind us to let go. The weather has dipped into the chillier side of the spectrum, but every now and then the sun appears and it feels like summer has been borrowed back for an hour or two.

I managed to get out a few times during October. I began the month on the coast, and then shifted my attention to the woodlands and nature reserves that transform so beautifully as the season turns.

Back to the Coast

This stretch of beach in north Felixstowe was my sanctuary in 2019. I visited it over and over. It became the place where I felt completely free, and the place where I learned so much about the techniques I still use today. Eventually, I drifted toward other parts of Suffolk, but the pull of that beach never fully disappeared.

At the start of this month, I returned, mostly because it was close to home and I needed something familiar. I went for sunrise. It wasn’t the most dramatic one I have seen there, but it felt good to stretch those old muscles of coastal photography and long exposures.

My main goal was simple: to capture the water rolling in and breaking on the shore. To watch it gather, surge, collapse and then pull itself back again. There is something grounding in anticipating that movement.

The Elders

Mist and fog had been forecast, and I hoped this ancient woodland would appear as it had a few years ago when I was lucky enough to witness it in a dreamlike veil.

The forecast didn’t quite land, but the woodland still offered a display of rich autumn colour and quiet atmosphere. The trees here are hundreds of years old, heavy with personality and history, and you can feel how many seasons and stories they have witnessed.

An old favourite woodland

I had originally planned another coastal trip, but halfway toward a familiar spot at Bawdsey I changed my mind and turned back toward one of my favourite woodlands.

Because I visit this woodland so regularly, this trip became an exercise in seeing the familiar with fresh eyes. I found new compositions hidden in places I thought I already knew, alongside old favourites framed in different conditions.

Nature reserved

I visited Newbourne Springs with a good friend, aiming to capture the trees and the changing light filtering through the canopy. I have been here many times, yet I never seem to tire of the way the sunlight dances across the stream that cuts through the reserve. There is always a moment worth noticing. My main focus was the way the light was reacting with the stream running through the middle.

What I Loved This Month

The Assassin on Amazon Prime

Another show I ended up binge-watching after only a few episodes. It follows a retired assassin whose life begins to unravel when her son attends a wedding with her. An attempt on her life sets off a chain of events that slowly reveal the truth behind her past.

The tone has the feel of a classic spy thriller, with a soundtrack that nods to older Bond films. It kept me genuinely engaged throughout. Keely Hawes and Freddie Higham are brilliant in their roles and their on-screen relationship gives the story a strong emotional core as they grapple with the secrets built around her former life.

The New Of Monsters and Men Album

A beautiful collection of songs that feels like a return to the spirit of their first album. Folky, acoustic, textured, and warm. Exactly what I hoped for from them.

The track that has stayed with me the most is Fruit Bat. It is piano-led, gentle, and low-tempo, the kind of song that settles quietly into your thoughts and lingers long after.

Thanks for taking the time to read. Let me know your thoughts and which images stood out to you. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out — I’m always happy to chat.

You can see more of my recent work and follow along on Instagram: @mattt_finch

Matt

Leave a comment

Recent Posts

on Substack

Autumn began to reveal itself this month. Subtle shifts in colour, cooler air creeping in, and golden light all hinted at the change in seasons.

Early on, I found myself out and about, both for work and personal projects, camera always in hand. From tranquil landscapes to buzzing events, it’s been a month of contrasts and creativity.

Out and About with the Camera

A sunset wander around Westleton Heath

I visited Westleton Heath with a good friend to catch the sunset. It’s always a great opportunity to see the landscape in a different light. I didn’t take a huge number of photos, but the ones I did capture were useful for trying out a few new techniques. Some close-ups of golden grasses and the silver birches stood out.

As the sun began to drop behind the trees, the light softened and gave the heath a beautifully peaceful feel.

By the River Alde at Iken Cliffs

Another favourite spot, Iken Cliffs, offered a quiet moment down by the river Alde. I’ve been coming here since childhood, and every visit brings a sense of calm. I arrived early to catch the stillness of the sunrise and photographed a boat with the church in the background. At first, the light wasn’t great, but once the colour broke through, the sun cast a beautiful glow across the marsh and river.

Toward the end of my walk, I stopped to photograph one of the dead trees lining the river, switching to my infrared filter to capture a more abstract view.

Work Highlights

Capturing the Season

This month marked the start of photographing the new autumn menus across some of our hotels. From afternoon teas to behind-the-scenes recipe shoots, I had the chance to document the full process. Watching seasonal ingredients come together in the kitchen and photographing the final dishes was a great way to see the transition into autumn through food. And then the week after we were back to capture the whole new Autumn menu for the same chef.

Tour of Britain

The Tour of Britain came through Suffolk this year, passing by several of the hotels I work with. I was on the roadside, camera ready, as the peloton hurtled past. The sound and speed of the bikes were incredible. It reminded me of my university days when the Tour came to Ipswich. A short moment, but such a rush to capture.

Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival

One of our chefs took to the demo stage on both days of the Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival. I was there to document the demos and capture the energy of the wider event. From bustling food stalls to live cooking and enthusiastic crowds, the whole scene was a vibrant celebration of Suffolk’s food scene. It was also a great opportunity to gather content for promoting a few of our hotels for next year.

Exhibition: Ginnel Foto Fest

This month I was also part of the Ginnel Foto Fest, a local photography exhibition that was part of the Ipswich Art Trail. I showcased a group of images taken using my infrared filter. It was something a bit different from my usual work and a great opportunity to present a unique perspective.

I wrote a post about the exhibition, which you can find below.

Echoes of Nature Calendar 2026

Every year I produce a calendar featuring a curated collection of images from around East Anglia, and the 2026 edition is now available to order.

This year’s calendar includes twelve of my favourite landscape photographs. It makes a thoughtful, affordable gift for Christmas or a way to enjoy my work all year round.

If you’re interested, head over to my website for more details and to place an order. I’d really appreciate your support.

https://matttfinch.com/product/echoes-of-nature-2026-calendar/

Monthly Favourite: What I’ve Been Watching

House of Guinness

I usually find it difficult to connect with period dramas set before the 1910s, but House of Guinness was a welcome exception. Like Peaky Blinders, it uses modern music and storytelling to create a bridge between past and present. The show does a great job of drawing you in, making you care about the characters, and delivering the ups and downs of a strong drama. I finished it recently and am now on the lookout for something new to dive into.

Thanks for taking the time to read. Let me know your thoughts and which images stood out to you. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out — I’m always happy to chat.

You can see more of my recent work and follow along on Instagram: @mattt_finch

Matt

Leave a comment

Recent Posts

on Substack

These visits offered a chance to appreciate the architecture of the past. The churches around Suffolk all have distinct visual identities. From round towers to timber-framed buildings, each one has a unique character.

We chose days with ideal conditions for infrared photography. Blue skies with some cloud helped add atmosphere. Sunshine also enhanced the contrast in green foliage, revealed differences in building materials, and cast longer, more dramatic shadows.

After researching the churches, we began to pinpoint a selection to visit. To make the most of each trip, we planned to visit multiple churches in one day, focusing on specific areas to be as efficient as possible.

St Edmund, King and Martyr, Assington

Our first stop was a church in West Suffolk, located in the small village of Assington. With a sweeping path and a strong, prominent tower, it was a fitting start. We arrived during a service, so we made sure to keep quiet while photographing. It was a great opportunity to ease into the process and start training my eye to this kind of imagery.

St Margaret & St Catherine, Aldham

This church may be familiar if you’ve watched Detectorists, as it featured in the BBC show. The small church, located in West Suffolk, sits on a hill and features a rare round tower.

Its elevated position and the surrounding trees and fences made for great compositions. I spent most of the time walking around the base of the hill, capturing the church from below. I liked the way it stood tall, perched on the slope.

I also explored the churchyard and stepped inside, both of which offered interesting elements to photograph. But my main focus remained on capturing the infrared scenes.

All Saints Church, Crowfield

Tucked away in the village of Crowfield, this timber-framed church is a rare find. It sits just outside the village centre in mid Suffolk and dates back to the 14th century. Its timber frame and visible oak beams give it a character reminiscent of the wool towns in West Suffolk. The preservation of the building adds a distinctive historic charm.

I spent time photographing the exterior before heading inside, where I was joined by the organist practicing. This unexpected soundtrack added a special ambiance to the visit. A real step back in time just as it is when I head to Lavenham for work.

Old Cemetery Chapel, Ipswich

This location was a study in pre-visualisation. I had the idea while walking through the cemetery, just ten minutes from my home. Once the light and weather aligned, I returned with my equipment to capture the image I had envisioned.

It was a good reminder of how planning and vision can come together in photography. There was only a brief window before cloud cover arrived, but in those few moments, I managed to capture the shot I was hoping for.

St Andrew’s, Walberswick

This visit was more of a practice run, as the conditions didn’t quite work out. I had been in Walberswick for a sunrise shoot and on the way back I stopped at the church to take a few images.

This is a location I plan to revisit when conditions are better and I have more time. The ruins and the church behind them form a composition I had imagined at the start of this project. Even though this shoot was more of a trial, it was still valuable practice.

Closing Thoughts

There’s a paradox in exploring these spiritual places through infrared photography. While these churches represent a search for spiritual light and meaning, I was literally seeking another kind of light, infrared, a wavelength we can’t see with the naked eye. This idea intrigued me from the start.

Infrared as a Practice

Infrared photography captures light beyond the visible spectrum, creating surreal images where foliage glows white and skies darken. Using modified cameras or special filters, it reveals a hidden world and adds a dreamlike quality to everyday scenes.

I started exploring infrared photography a couple of years ago as a way to push myself creatively. This project is one of several that have come from that exploration.

Here’s another post where I share more of the images I’ve captured.

Thanks for reading. I’d love to hear your thoughts or find out which images you liked most. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch and I’ll do my best to answer them.

It would be great to know if this would be of interest as a zine or photo book, as I have plenty of images from these trips that would be good to include as part of the set.

See my more recent work and follow me on Instagram @mattt_finch

Matt

Leave a comment

A few of my recent posts

The summer months often bring fewer opportunities to get out with the camera. Early sunrises and rising temperatures tend to put me off early morning adventures. But as we move into late summer, the heathlands and commons come alive with a flush of blooming heather. I couldn’t resist heading out to explore the local landscapes once again.

Over the past few years, the heathland has been noticeably affected by changing weather patterns. But this year, it seems to have bounced back in parts of the local area. I took a couple of early morning trips to capture the heather in full bloom.

Wandering Through Lavenham

While in Lavenham for a food photoshoot, I had a bit of time to explore the village before heading into the hotel. Over the years, it has been named one of the best preserved villages in the country, and for good reason. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a time machine, with buildings dating back to the 13th century.

I’ve visited many times for work, but this time I was drawn to photographing the charming doorways and architecture. There’s something fascinating about how each doorway tells a different story.

Exploring in the Heather

I hadn’t visited a heather-covered heathland in over a year, and I definitely felt a bit rusty. I returned to a regular summer spot, and the weather couldn’t have been better. After capturing a few wide shots, I turned my lens to some close-ups, trying to catch the interplay of light on the heather and grasses. Lately, I’ve found myself becoming more attuned to these smaller, more intimate moments.

Ipswich Cemetery

I had a vision to photograph the chapels at Ipswich Cemetery using infrared. I wanted to highlight the contrast between the built environment and its natural surroundings. The conditions were ideal, with great clouds and soft light, and I managed to capture the sky’s movement during a perfect window.

I framed one image with a cross in the foreground, which added extra context and depth. After that, I spent time moving around the chapel, experimenting with different angles and exposures of the architecture.

A Misty Morning at Westleton Heath

On Bank Holiday Monday, I headed to Westleton Heath. This vast landscape explodes with colour in late summer. The morning started misty, and as soon as I pulled into the car park, I knew it was going to be special. Clear skies and a gentle sunrise gave the landscape a magical glow.

I followed a looped path, choosing to walk away from the sunrise at first, knowing the light would eventually spill across the heath. I was drawn to a lone tree near a path, but the light wasn’t quite right. Then I spotted a silver birch further ahead, perfectly backlit by the rising sun. That became my favourite shot of the day.

I continued along the path toward the sun, watching as it coloured the mist and brought the landscape to life. I took a few more frames before looping back to where I had parked.

Walberswick

On the last weekend of the month, I made a trip to the coast. I hadn’t been to Walberswick in a couple of months. After mistakenly putting the wrong address into my maps, I just about made it in time for sunrise.

The waves were crashing against the shore, and I captured a few shots before heading into the dunes, where the morning light was catching the marram grass just right. I focused on that scene this time, finding it incredibly calming.

As always, I finished with a coffee on the beach. Before heading home, I walked to the water’s edge and was mesmerised by the patterns left in the sand. Ripples and tide lines marked the sea’s recent presence.

Monthly Favourites

I didn’t share any favourites last month, so I’m getting back into the habit. Here’s what stood out in August.

🎧 Kingfishr – Debut Album

I’ve followed Kingfishr for a few years, and it was great to finally hear their full album. Their blend of rich melodies and heartfelt lyrics fits right into my eclectic taste in music. A strong debut from the Irish band. Have a listen here

📺 Untamed – Netflix

A gripping crime thriller with plenty of twists. Untamed drew me in more with each episode. It reminded me of Shetland — gritty, atmospheric, and led by a character deeply rooted in their landscape and community. Definitely worth a binge.

🎤 Oasis at Wembley

I was lucky enough to get tickets to see Oasis at Wembley at the start of the month. As a huge fan, being in that crowd, soaking in the atmosphere, was unforgettable. All the hype around the reunion was completely justified. It was by far the loudest, most engaged crowd I’ve ever been part of.

Liam called it “Biblical,” and he wasn’t wrong.

The setlist was packed with hits, moving between their punk roots and singalong anthems. My highlights were:

• Little by Little

• Rock ’n’ Roll Star

• Morning Glory

• Champagne Supernova

• Cigarettes & Alcohol

Let’s Connect

Let me know what you think of the images I’ve chosen to showcase alongside these stories. I’d love to hear your thoughts or any similar experiences you’ve had out exploring this summer.

Leave a comment

On the weekend of 13th to 14th September, I’ll have three of my images on display as part of the Ginnel Foto Fest exhibition alongside ten other photographers, it’s a part of the Ipswich Art Trail.

The Art Trail will showcase the work of talented artists and makers from across Ipswich, with events and exhibitions happening in 10 venues around the town.

My contribution features three photographs created using infrared photography, each capturing a very different subject, but all taken here in Suffolk. Infrared allows us to see the world in a way that’s normally hidden from view, and these images are part of an ongoing exploration of that technique.

I’ll be sharing the stories behind each image below.

Compadres, West Suffolk

Shot in autumn, this image was taken during a walk through a local woodland and nearby nature reserve. On the path between the two, I was drawn to a pair of trees standing alone in the middle of a field.

This shot was all about planning around a long exposure using only a filter. You can see movement in the tree on the right, which shows how long the shutter was open.

What caught my attention was how awkwardly the trees were positioned. Placing them at the centre of the frame helped highlight that. It was actually the last image I captured on this trip, but it turned out to be the one I enjoyed most.

White Tower, Aldham Church

Back in February, I set out with the goal of capturing churches specifically. We visited a few in one day to make the most of the travel. This church is fairly well known, especially as it appears in the BBC series Detectorists.

Its round tower is quite unique, and its location on a hill gave us a great chance to explore different perspectives. The church’s history and age really add depth to the way it’s experienced visually.

The conditions were perfect for infrared photography, bright blue skies, light cloud cover, and no wind. I worked my way around the church until I found the right composition. Sitting on top of the hill with a few trees below, the whole scene had a quiet, settled feeling that I tried to capture. this is going to become part of a large project I would like to do with churches in infrared.

Dynamism, Felixstowe Docks

I took this photo one July morning just after sunrise. With my long exposure setup, still conditions are absolutely essential. Any wind or movement can completely ruin the shot.

I set up near the water’s edge, just far enough back to avoid being affected by the slow, creeping waves.

This location has been photographed by many, but I wanted to approach it differently. Shooting it in infrared helped bring something new to the scene. The long exposure worked well with the decaying wooden structures in the foreground, creating a calm, timeless quality I was looking for.

Through infrared and long exposure techniques, I aimed to capture a sense of presence that often goes unnoticed. If you're able to visit the exhibition, I hope you’ll take a moment to pause with each image and experience the stillness they hold.

If you're local, come along and check out the exhibition!

Thanks for taking the time to read. Let me know your thoughts and which images stood out to you. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out — I’m always happy to chat.

You can see more of my recent work and follow along on Instagram: @mattt_finch

Matt

Leave a comment

Long story short, I lost my sense of taste and smell after having COVID, over three years ago. But this isn’t a call for sympathy. It’s more of an ode to an old saying.

That saying rings particularly true for me.

In fact, I believe it explains why photography is such an essential part of how we sell new dishes and create experiences in the hospitality world. Food, at its core, is sensory and when you can’t engage with all those senses, sight becomes even more powerful.

Food Is More Than Just Taste

While taste and smell are the dominant senses we think about when eating, the way food looks plays a massive role in how much we enjoy it. If a dish looks unappealing, chances are we’ll enjoy it less, even if it tastes great.

That’s why food photography matters.

It’s not just about documenting a dish. It’s about capturing an experience, the warmth of a hearty roast, the elegance of a fine dining plate, and the excitement of something new.

I’ve been photographing food as part of my day-to-day work for well over four years now, shooting in restaurants across Suffolk.

We all visit restaurants for different reasons:

• To celebrate a special occasion

• To try food we might not cook at home

• Or simply because we love food

Understanding these motivations helps guide how we shoot a dish or a setting.

Are we capturing an emotional moment?
Selling a new seasonal menu?
Creating a luxurious brand impression?

The answer to these questions affect everything from lighting to composition.

The style of photography is also linked to the brand of each restaurant.
I have honed a certain style with some restaurants and others are about capturing the food-specific images to mainly sell the dish.

Here are a few things I would recommend knowing while you are shooting food.

Styling the Plate and the Environment

Styling is key and knowing where you want to pitch the food.

• Luxury dining? Go clean and minimalist. White linens, sparkling glassware, refined details.

• Comfort food? Focus on warmth and rustic charm. Think cozy lighting, textured backdrops, and earthy tones.

Also, understand the dish itself. In a more recent shoot, it took me and my colleagues a considerable amount time during the shoot to style and plate four burgers. We had shot burgers multiple times before then but we had to cover a new menu concept with them at front and centre.

Don’t be afraid to move elements around on the plate (within reason). For example, if I’m shooting a roast dinner, I’ll make sure all the key elements, not just the meat, are visually represented.

Lighting

Personally, I use a single flash with a softbox, though sometimes natural light works best.

• Bright, airy dishes like fresh salads or desserts often benefit from soft daylight.

• Rich, moody dishes like steaks or stews work well with more dramatic, directional lighting.

• A direct light from windows during the sunnier months of the year helps to bring an idyllic view of a sunny day or setting sun.

The key is to match the lighting to the mood you want the image to convey.

Know your Angles

The angle is everything, not all dishes work from above, at 45 degrees or from the front. From experience, you start to figure out which dishes suit the angle. Burgers are either best face on like a portrait or if you are trying to make it a hero, shoot it from below. A top-down dish like a salad or piece of fish can often be plated like an artwork, and others suit the natural viewing position of the diner.

• Burgers: Often best shot head-on, or slightly from below to give them hero status.

• Salads and fish: Usually best from above—they’re artworks on a plate especially if they are an amalgamation of different ingredients.

• Layered desserts or steaks: A 45-degree angle can give nice depth and perspective.

Share

Application

As a graphic designer too, I’m shooting primarily for my own design work.
For posters, backs of menus in print and then images for online use. I know what I’m looking to photograph, both for the design I work towards or for my colleagues to use online, on social media or in the press. Knowing where it might be used is always a first thought before even pressing the shutter. Leaving space for text is also key for those starting out.

That means I know in advance what kind of shot I need.

• Leave space for text and copy if it’s going to be used in a design both online and in print.

• Build a mood board or an inspiration sheet to guide the tone and composition of the shoot. Share that it with your team it helps align everyone. This is a great way to get some inspiration as to a style for a particular shoot or campaign, I recently have been undertaking a full re-shoot for one of our hotels. Between me and my colleagues, we were able to create a full visual identity to base the new menu off.

A few extra tips

Trust Your Chef

(If that’s you, then trust yourself!)

They have a vision for a dish as much as you do, so lean on their creativity and ask what position they like the dish placed in front of a guest. If there is a sauce or gravy then ask for it not to be included and have it poured on there just before you shoot it or even use it as part of the shoot. This will both help with the length of time you are able to photograph it and also give you the chance to capture an action shot.

Chefs have a vision for their dishes—respect that.

• Ask them how they’d present it to a guest.

• If there’s a sauce or gravy, ask for it on the side first—then pour it fresh before the shot. Not only does it keep the dish looking clean, it also opens the door for a great action shot.

People Help People

Bringing in the human element, whether it’s the chef finishing a dish off, a customer pouring a sauce or the hint that they are about to eat the dish. You want to give people the idea that might want to be sitting in the person’s position. The elevation of a dish with the chef adding garnishes and sauces to the dish helps to give an insight into the kitchen. I’ve been around kitchens long enough to take it for granted, but there’s real artistry in watching a chef plate a dish. Capturing that moment adds life to an image.

People help people to connect.

• Include a chef adding the final garnish.

• Capture a guest pouring sauce or reaching for a fork.

• Show movement or interaction, it invites the viewer into the scene.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely believe we eat with our eyes first, especially in a world where photos can sell a dish before it even hits the table. Think the fast food chains and cafes, where there is a reliance on capturing an audience within those hungry moments. As people commute or travel, billboards do a lot of the work. Yes some images are taken for pure indulgence, like the first image but thats ok too. Food photography can be quite the marvel when its done right.

The images I’ve shared here have been taken over the past few years, so these specific dishes may not be on current menus. But the experience, the style and the intention behind the photography remain just as relevant.

Want to See More?

This is quite different from what I usually share, so if you found it interesting or want more behind-the-scenes insight into my day job, please let me know. Happy to share more tips, processes, or even some live shoot examples in future posts.

Thanks for reading!

See my more recent work and follow me on Instagram @mattt_finch

Matt

Leave a comment

Each shoot brings a new opportunity to explore the world around me. Whether it means an early start or a long drive, it’s all worth it for those moments when the light shifts, the colours transform, and something truly special unfolds. These are the moments that words often can’t capture, but a single image can.

In recent years, photography has also become part of my professional life, with a focus on commercial work; capturing food, drinks, and interior spaces with the same creative eye.

To all my fellow photographers out there; keep chasing the light, exploring and capturing those moments that would usually be missed. Keep committing those frames to eternity in print and digitally. And keep showing the world in a different way, as you all are making it a brighter place!

Thanks for taking the time to read. Let me know your thoughts and which images stood out to you. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out, and I’ll be happy to answer.

See my more recent work and follow me on Instagram @mattt_finch

Matt

Leave a comment