Andy Compton Photography

I am ashamed to say I had never considered the fine balance between agriculture and nature while zipping around the Mid Wales countryside photographing events as a press photographer. All that changed at the tender age of 57 after taking up a position as a Photography Co-ordinator for the Marches Business Group in Llandrindod Wells, Powys.

While the majority of my work involves taking images of ironmongery I have also been tasked to take pictures for the group’s non-profit organisation Wilba Conservation. I always had a passing interest in wildlife, but helping Wilba has taken it to another level. Most days I will wander around the meadow for a few minutes during lunch trying to take a picture of anything flower or fauna. I now take more notice of the birds singing, bees buzzing and looking and listening out for other forms of wildlife, all of which used to be just background noise to me in the past. And being a photographer since I was 18 years old, I just have to photograph them.

I love the challenge of taking a good photograph which involves seeing the subject clearly, getting the right angle and the right lighting. But sitting down with a long telephoto lens waiting for wildlife is not for me, I’m too impatient and prefer the challenge of quietly walking along in nature, upping my fitness levels and using guile to get as close as I can to my subjects. It can be frustrating as most birds and insects will fly off before I get anywhere near but sometimes, I can get a good image using cover and walking slowly towards the subject.

Wilba is a small, non-profit organisation within the Marches Business Group set up with the aim of helping farmers protect nature and wildlife in Radnorshire without affecting the running of their businesses. There are many demands on farmers these days and the conservation work by Wilba helps them give vital habitat to wildlife. It also offers volunteers a chance to learn new skills and get out in nature to improve their fitness and mental health.

For further information on Wilba Conservation or if anyone wishes to donate towards upcoming projects, they can here: www.wilba.co.uk/donations.

Feature image: Song Thrush in The Groe, Builth Wells, Powys