Wet morning

A particularly wet morning was spent today photographing fungi. I visited a favourite location of mine in mid Kent where I am usually able to find a wealth of subject matter. From the moment I stepped out of the car to the moment I got back inside, it was pouring down. I don’t care who you are, there is very little fun to be had setting up a tripod, composing the scene and positioning reflectors, when water’s running down your back! I always carry a small umbrella, particularly at this time of the year, and it proved jolly handy in keeping me and the equipment reasonably dry. Though as I look at my camera bag right now it is still sodden.

With the rainy weather we have been experiencing of late here in the south east, many species have been and gone but new generations always reappear. I walked a short while to a spot where the previous year there had been a good showing of magpie ink-caps and there they were. At least half a dozen, each in different stages of growth. Across the glade, several shaggy parasols were emerging and under a group of yew, fly agarics.

There were other species too that I didn’t bother with, partly because I had already shot them in more favourable weather and in better condition and also because they would have to look damn good if I was to get even more soaked! I’ll be returning frequently over the next few weeks as I will be leading two photography workshops, one of which still has spaces available.

Tags: fly agaric, fungi, fungi photography workshop, kent, magpie ink cap, mushroom photography workshop, photographing fungi, photographing mushrooms