Spotlight on readers’ excellent images and how they captured them
Paul Byers, Cumbria
Paul is a self-taught photographer who takes pictures in his spare time. See more of his work at clicktography.net or Instagram.com/thismonolife
How did you get into photography?
I owe a lot to my Granda as he helped me with certain aspects of photography and he bought my first camera in 2018. Before, I was taking pictures with a GoPro and wanted to learn to capture images that I could pass to family and friends. I watched a lot of YouTube to get me started and then taught myself by getting out with the camera. I look at any mistakes I make as a reference point for me to improve on. I work 9-5 so I enjoy my photography in my spare time. When I started capturing night sky images it allowed me to use my imagination and on a calm clear night, for me, nothing comes close to it. We all have times that get us down and being under the night sky puts my mind at ease.
What do you love about photography?
That I can be creative with how I take a picture and I enjoy planning an image. It has also meant I’ve been to places I otherwise may not have ever gone to.
Favourite subjects
Astrophotography. I can just switch off from everything else. I love creating images that it is not possible for the human eye to see.
What was your first camera?
Sony A6000.
Current kit
Nikon Z6 and Z50, Tamron 35mm f/1.4, Samyang 135mm f/2, Irix 15mm f/2.4, Sky Watcher Star Adventurer 2i.
Favourite accessory
My Unleashed Bluetooth trigger. It has enabled me to capture multiple minute exposures and it is so small that it can be left in the camera at all times. It can be set with my phone and then left to capture as many exposures as I set. I can also use my L-Bracket with no issues as it fits snugly into the side of the camera.
Dream purchase
A Sony A7S III with t
