The Tree is Dead

The iconic Tree of Ranoch Moor (aka the Jeremy's Tree to many) is no more... A tree that was a focal point for countless photographs, a trunk that inspired hundreds - if not thousands. A meeting point for plentiful workshops, seminars, courses, retreats....



We first were introduced to the tree in 2009 during one of the photo workshops with Jeremy Walker - and over the few days we have visited the tree in the morning, afternoon, evening - at any time of the day and in all possible weather conditions. And each time hoping for some good light...



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after 3 early mornings and -12C finally we got the light!


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waiting for the perfect light...

It was a training ground to many. A reference point for framing, composing, getting the hyperfocal right... The tree was photographed from every possible angle and in each direction.

An icon that probably could outshine many of the top catwalk models when it comes to the number of lenses pointed at!The tree was also an apple of discord on the long and cold mornings when groups of photographers, after dragging their feet at 4am from a cosy bed just to stand under the cloudy sky in hope for a nice sunrise, would find a bunch of tripods already planted in the position with their owners desperately looking at the clouds where the sun should soon appear.
Some wound wander off in disappointment, some would actually ask us to move as we were in their frame. Emotions were high and the global tripod battle was on the brink...

And so Jeremy's Tree is no more adding to the misery of many of the photographers who already suffered from the declining sales. One still remains in place though - but be early as its bound to be crowded with tripods!


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Ranoch Moor at dusk





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A large size prints or canvas of many of the photographs are available (contact via email) - or for commercial purposes you can purchase the photo of the Glencoe Sunrise via ALAMY . 

a BIGGER win!

WOW This time the image has been commended in... hold on tight!

As the email on one early morning said:


I am delighted to announce that your image has been commended in the People Category in the Open Competition of the Sony World Photography Awards 2012. Your work has been selected from 52,323 images entered from 171 countries. This is an incredible achievement.

And soe the image will be shown in the SWPA winner's book as well as digitally at Somerset House, as part of World Photo, London from 27th April - 20th May, 2012.

And so the matador keeps getting more and more attention:

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The photo is for sale either via ALAMY - or contact me directly. Many more photos in this series are for sale - please, contact for details. 

a small win!

Dear Frank Siedlok,
I am delighted to let you know that your picture “Regret” has one first prize in the People Category of the National Geographic 2011 photography contest.

National Geographic photographer, John Burcham, said of your picture:

“This image really captures a moment of real pain and frustration. The composition is excellent with the way the bull leads you to the matador.”

I would like to wish you a wonderful Christmas and very happy New Year.

Best regards,
National Geographic magazine

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And the winning shot:

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But there was more to this story. First, we got a nice free tasting of Bowmore whilst listening to Colin Prior talking about his travels and photography (link).

The evening was fab and we left with some valuable new knowledge of what judges in competitions are normally looking for as well as a few Bowmore miniatures.

The tips from Colin helped to choose the right shot - and the miniatures came handy to celebrate!

For more info:

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The photo is for sale either via ALAMY - or contact me directly. Many more photos in this series are for sale - please, contact for details.