Dear friends,

As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt wishes for a joyous and prosperous New Year! It is with immense gratitude that I extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you, for without your unwavering support, my journey at Paul W. Baker Photography would not be possible.

Reflecting upon the year gone by, I feel a profound sense of appreciation for the memories that I was able to capture and the moments I shared with you. Some stunning landscapes that took my breath away, that I felt I was honoured to be part of.

Looking ahead, I eagerly anticipate the adventures that await me in the coming year. With renewed excitement and creativity, I am committed to capturing life’s magical moments as they unfold. Whether it’s a wedding, a newborn’s first smile, or a milestone worth remembering, I am dedicated to preserving these precious memories for you to cherish for years to come

As I stand on the cusp of the New Year, let us take a moment to recognise the challenges we have overcome and the strength we have found within ourselves. Let us embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, and together, let us create moments worth holding onto.

Wishing you and your loved ones a New Year filled with love, happiness, and boundless possibilities. May each day be adorned with laughter, each step guided by success, and each photograph capture the essence of your beautiful lives.

Thank you for your unwavering support – here’s to an incredible 2024!

With warm regards,

Paul

Introducing the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm 3.3-5.6 Lens, the latest addition to my impressive arsenal of lenses. This innovative lens is set to elevate your photography experience to new heights, allowing you to capture breathtaking images with exceptional clarity and precision.

It will however be mainly used by me on the NIKON Z30 as the go to vlogging lens making the video content for the YouTube videos both sharper and clearer, the 16-50mm will remain in the set providing a lighter lens for those trips abroad.

Designed specifically for the Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras, the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm 3.3-5.6 Lens is tailored to meet the versatile needs of both amateur enthusiasts and professional photographers. With its impressive focal length range of 12-28mm, this lens provides outstanding flexibility, making it perfect for a wide range of photography genres, from landscape and architecture to street photography and more.

One of the standout features of this lens is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing just under 300 grams, it offers exceptional portability without compromising on image quality. Whether you are embarking on a photography expedition or simply capturing fleeting moments on the go, this lens ensures that you can comfortably carry it with you wherever your photographic journey takes you.

The remarkable optical performance of the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm 3.3-5.6 Lens will certainly impress even the most discerning photographers. Equipped with advanced optical technologies, including Extra-Low Dispersion glass and aspherical elements, this lens delivers outstanding sharpness, contrast, and color accuracy throughout the entire zoom range. You can confidently capture stunning details with minimal chromatic aberrations and distortion.

Photographers will appreciate the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm 3.3-5.6 Lens’s fast and precise autofocus system, ensuring you never miss a crucial moment.

In addition, this lens features a beautifully crafted control ring that allows for smooth and intuitive adjustments of various settings like aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation. With this enhanced level of control, you can effortlessly fine-tune your shots to achieve your desired artistic vision.

As with all NIKKOR lenses, the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm 3.3-5.6 Lens has been built with durability in mind. It is weather-sealed to protect against dust and moisture, ensuring that you can confidently use it in a variety of challenging shooting conditions.

In conclusion, the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm 3.3-5.6 Lens is a stellar addition to my collection of lenses. Its remarkable versatility, outstanding optical performance, and compact design make it an ideal choice for any photographer looking to push their creative boundaries. Upgrade your photography gear today and unlock a world of endless possibilities with this phenomenal lens from Nikon.

Last weekend, on the 2nd of December, I embarked on a delightful journey to the picturesque Lake District. My destination was none other than the lovely town of Ambleside, which proved to be nothing short of breathtaking.

Upon my arrival, I was greeted with a winter wonderland adorned in a blanket of pristine snow. The weather was a perfect reflection of my desires, and I couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement. However, as with any snowy landscape, there were potential dangers lurking beneath the surface.

As I set out to explore the enchanting surroundings, I quickly realised the challenges that lay ahead. The compacted snow created treacherous conditions, causing me to skid sideways down a particularly steep hill. Panicking, I found myself momentarily stranded in the middle of the road, unable to regain control or make progress against the gradient.

Just when I was contemplating my options, Darren Moorehouse (better known as Ginger Captures on YouTube), came to my rescue. He introduced me to a remarkable product known as tyre shoes, cleverly crafted by a company called Silknet. These ingenious devices were designed to provide additional traction and stability on icy surfaces.

I was amazed as Darren promptly slipped on the Silknet tyre shoes onto my vans tyres. Within moments, I felt a newfound confidence and control over my movement on the treacherously slippery road. With the assistance of these superbly engineered accessories, I was able to navigate the hills with ease and continue my exploration of the mesmerising Lake District.

The experience not only taught me the importance of being prepared for unexpected challenges brought on by harsh weather conditions (I will definitely be buying a pair to keep in the van) but also introduced me to the vital role that high-quality accessories, such as the Silknet tyre shoes, play in ensuring our safety and enjoyment during any future adventures.

It took well over 24 hours to get home, that gave me plenty of time to think about what had happened to us, and just ow lucky we were to get out of the area without a scare on our bodies. Yes the vans took a hit, but that is all repairable, thankfully we are both OK.

In conclusion, my weekend getaway to Ambleside was a truly stunning experience. The beauty of the Lake District was accentuated by the picturesque winter scenery. Despite encountering a few difficulties, the assistance of the Silknet tyre shoes, graciously provided by Darren, simplified my journey and allowed me to fully appreciate the magic of the surroundings. I’m eager to return to this enchanting destination, with a renewed sense of adventure and a newfound appreciation for the importance of well-designed equipment.

Watch the VLOG: CLICK HERE

As a chap who loves a good trip I thought the DX Z50-250mm with an unquenchable thirst for capturing breathtaking moments, would be a good addition to the set? So allow me to present the latest addition to my collection – the NIKKOR DX Z 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 lens. Designed with the modern explorer in mind, this versatile lens is a powerful companion that will enhance anybodies photography experience during their travels abroad.

Unparalleled Zoom Capability

The NIKKOR DX Z 50-250mm lens boasts an impressive zoom range, allowing me to effortlessly capture everything from sweeping landscapes to distant subjects in stunning detail. Whether I will be exploring the cobblestone streets of an ancient European city or venturing into the untamed wilderness of a South American rainforest, this lens provides the flexibility I need to frame my shots exactly as I would like to.

Travel Light, Shoot Big

Weighing just under 400 grams, the NIKKOR DX Z 50-250mm lens is the epitome of portability without compromising on image quality. Designed specifically for the Nikon Z series of mirrorless cameras, it offers a compact and lightweight solution, perfect for when I want to travel lightly without sacrificing professional-grade results. It will fit effortlessly fitting into my camera bag, leaving me with no qualms about taking it wherever I go.

Superior Optics, Exceptional Clarity

Delivering uncompromising image quality, this lens is built with precision optics and cutting-edge technology. The incorporation of extra-low dispersion glass elements minimizes chromatic aberrations, ensuring stunningly sharp images and vibrant colors, even under challenging lighting conditions. Whether I am capturing the subtle nuances of an architectural masterpiece or immortalising the vibrant hues of a bustling street market, the NIKKOR DX Z 50-250mm lens will let me push the boundaries of creativity.

Steadfast Performance, Effortless Focusing

Nothing is more frustrating than missing that perfect shot due to a slow or unreliable autofocus system. Fear not, as the NIKKOR DX Z 50-250mm lens incorporates a fast and accurate autofocus mechanism, enabling me to seize every fleeting moment. Its stepping motor guarantees smooth and silent focusing, making it ideal for capturing candid scenes without disturbing the ambiance. Be it an enchanting street performer or a captivating wildlife encounter, this lens will deliver crystal-clear images with exceptional precision.

Unleash Creativity

As an avid traveler I understand that the journey is just as important as the destination. With the NIKKOR DX Z 50-250mm lens, I can explore the vast possibilities of my artistic vision. Experiment with different focal lengths to frame unique perspectives, create dreamy bokeh with the wide aperture, or capture captivating telephoto shots of distant subjects. This lens is designed to be a versatile tool, limited only by the users imagination.

Conclusion

I am looking forward to trying this on my next ‘lightweight’ travels be it here in the UK or more likely when I hope on an aircraft and travel abroad, it should be fun. Obviously the rest of the F7.1 group with their ancient, probably out of date equipment will be very envious of this addition to the set.

On a bitterly cold evening, I embarked on a photographic adventure that would forever etch a remarkable image in my memory. The location was none other than the mesmerising Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth, standing tall and proud against the inky backdrop of the night sky. It was a perfect setting for capturing the celestial beauty of the moonrise.

As the evening descended, a sense of anticipation hung in the air. Equipped with my trusted camera and tripod, I positioned myself strategically, ensuring that the towering structure of the Spinnaker Tower would become an integral part of the composition. The stage was set for a perfect dance between the moon and the magnificent architectural wonder before me.
As the first glimmers of twilight faded away, the moon began its slow ascent. Emerging delicately from behind the black horizon, it cast an ethereal glow that illuminated the frigid darkness. The bitterly cold air seemed to stand still, capturing the fleeting magic of the moment.

Positioning my lens expertly, I framed the scene to showcase the moon’s majestic rise behind the Spinnaker Tower. The moon, a radiant orb suspended in the ink-black sky, created an enchanting contrast against the sleek, metallic lines of the tower. Silhouetted perfectly against this backdrop, the Spinnaker Tower appeared to reach towards the heavens, as if eager to touch the celestial body gracing the night.

The frigid air seemed to intensify, yet such discomfort was forgotten as awe and wonder engulfed me. Time stood still as I captured the nuanced details of the moon, its craters and valleys becoming individual brushstrokes upon the photographer’s canvas. With each click of the shutter, I immortalized the moonrise, merging its tranquil elegance with the architectural marvel that was the Spinnaker Tower.

This surreal spectacle felt like a delicate dance between elements, where nature’s divine creation joined forces with man’s creative expression. The moon, graceful in its ascent, bestowed upon the tower a sense of ethereal grandeur. And the tower, standing tall against the backdrop of the vast canvas, appeared to have claimed the moon as its coveted crown jewel.

As the moon climbed higher, its glow intensified, casting a spellbinding radiance that painted the landscape with a soft silver hue. Every detail, every nuance, was captured in meticulous detail—a testament to the power of photography and human imagination.

In that moment, a sublime connection emerged—one that transcended the limits of time, nature, and human artistry. It was a visual tapestry that carried the whispers of countless evenings like this, each with its own unique story to tell.

As I left the Spinnaker Tower that cold evening, the memory of that captivating moonrise lingered in my mind. The image I had immortalised would become a testament to the magical synergy that exists between the celestial wonders above and the breathtaking creations of human hands.
The moonrise behind the Spinnaker Tower on that frigid evening would remain etched in my soul- an enduring reminder of the beauty that emerges when we embrace the harmony between nature’s wonders and man’s awe-inspiring accomplishments.

You can see all the images on Saturday mornings Vlog

November 25th, 2023

As an avid traveler and passionate photographer, I thrive on capturing the essence of each location and preserving those precious memories through vlogs. These digital chronicles not only allow me to share my adventures but also serve as a personal keepsake, a visual diary of my journeys. However, fate sometimes intervenes, testing our resilience and reminding us of the fragility of our digital creations.

It was during my most recent excursion that I found myself immersed in a breathtaking landscape, my camera poised to document every captivating moment. From the serenity of rolling hills to the allure of bustling cities, I meticulously filmed each frame, envisioning a final masterpiece that would encapsulate my experiences.

Countless hours were spent selecting the perfect shots and weaving together a narrative that would enthrall my audience. The vlog was meant to be a testament to my creativity and dedication, showcasing not only the beauty of the world but also the effort behind each image. Excitement coursed through my veins as I prepared to share this visual journey with those who eagerly looked forward to my content.

But amidst the fervor and anticipation, the unthinkable happened. A single, errant click of the mouse betrayed me; without a moment’s notice, my vlogging content was irretrievably deleted. The sinking realization hit me like a bolt of lightning, snuffing out the spark of enthusiasm that had fueled me for days.

In the immediate aftermath of my mistake, waves of frustration and disbelief crashed against the shores of my creativity. All that time, effort, and passion, lost in an instant. It was a moment filled with regret and self-doubt, questioning how such a simple error had managed to unravel the very fabric of my hard work.

Yet, as with all things in life, perspective gradually crept back into my wounded heart. I reminded myself that failures are often the catalysts for growth and resilience. From the depths of despair emerged a newfound determination.

Rising above the ashes of my mishap, I resolved to seek solace in the memories I had created. Though the vlog was forever lost, the moments I had captured in my heart and mind remained intact. I recounted the serene sunsets, the smiles of locals, and the laughter shared with fellow travelers. Those were the true gems that no hard drive mishap could ever erase.

Soon, I found myself behind the camera again, ready to embark on fresh adventures and craft new stories. With each click of the shutter, I was reminded of the transience of our digital existence and the importance of cherishing the present, for it is only in those fleeting moments that true magic resides.

While the sting of that unfortunate incident will forever linger, it has also become a poignant reminder to back up my creations diligently and to treasure the irreplaceable memories that lie within them. Deleted vlogs may fade from existence, but the indomitable spirit of a creator will always find a way to bloom once more.

So, with my renewed sense of purpose and a touch of newfound humility, I venture forth. The road may be uncertain, but my camera and my passion remain steadfast. And who knows? Perhaps the loss of that vlog was just a prelude to something far greater, awaiting its chance to unfold before my lens.

You can view the images HERE

Today, I had an eventful experience with my car’s diesel heater that could have ended up being quite costly. As luck would have it, though, things turned out better than expected.

Early in the day, I took my car to a local mechanic to fix the diesel heater, which had been causing me quite a headache lately. To my relief, he managed to resolve the issue successfully, and I was thrilled that my heater was finally working again.

Later in the afternoon, while driving around town, I realised that my fuel tank needed a refill. I decided to stop by the nearby Tesco to take care of that. Little did I know, this trip to the fuel station would have an unexpected twist.

After pulling up to the pump, I began filling up my car with diesel. As the pump hummed along, I found myself staring absentmindedly at the sky. It was a beautiful day, and perhaps my mind wandered a bit too far into the clouds.

Suddenly, a splashing sound disrupted my daydreaming. Confused, I looked around, trying to locate the source of the noise. It didn’t take long for my gaze to fall downward. To my astonishment, there was a massive puddle of diesel spread at my feet.

I realized then that the mechanic had forgotten to reconnect the fuel tank and down pipe from the filler during the earlier repair. My poor car was unwittingly sharing its precious fuel with the forecourt of the Tesco fuel station. To add insult to the injury, the estimated value of the lost diesel amounted to a whopping £25.00.

Determined not to let this inconvenience slide, I promptly returned to the garage where the repair had been done. The mechanic apologized profusely for his mistake and immediately rectified the error. Thankfully, he also reimbursed me the full £25 I had inadvertently donated to the Tesco forecourt. I couldn’t help but laugh as he handed me the cash, realizing how fortunate I was that the situation had been resolved so amicably.

So, today’s adventure may not have gone according to plan, but it certainly provided an unexpected laugh. It serves as a reminder that even amidst small misfortunes, things can still turn out for the better. Plus, any mishap that ends with a hearty laugh and a refunded £25 can’t be all that bad, can it?

Credit to the guy however, on top of the damaged fuel pipe he also repaired the air intake pipe which was also torn and the panel which someone had knocked in whilst reversing into the van and who promptly left the scene, nice! He did those two jobs for free.

And yes, I would use him again :)

You may have noticed I aslo own the domain BAKER.DANCE if you would like to purchase that domain from me please email me at paul@baker.uk.com

As a photographer, I have always been captivated by the mystique of nature’s elements and their ability to transform the familiar into something awe-inspiring. When I photographed the bridge back in 2018, I embarked on a daring adventure to capture the iconic Golden Gate Bridge amidst a thick, low-lying fog that draped the landscape. Little did I know that this experience would be both chilling and enchanting.

Walking along the waterfront, the anticipation grew with each step. The city skyline, usually vibrant and bustling, was veiled by an ethereal haze. The silent whispers of the fog set a surreal atmosphere, leaving the air heavy with a palpable sense of mystery. Precisely what I was hoping to encounter.

Shrouded in layers upon layers of mist, the Golden Gate Bridge emerged in half-glimpses, like a tantalizing mirage teasing the eyes. The iconic orange towers stood resolute in the sea of white, while the cables snaked their way into the fog, disappearing into the unknown. The bridge seemed to float amidst the clouds, anchoring itself in a world halfway between reality and a dream.

The fog that blanketed the scene added an undeniable sense of drama, casting an enchanting spell upon the surroundings. It seemed as if time stood still, preserving this moment for me alone to capture. The opposing forces of strength and vulnerability converged, for even the mighty structure was humbled by the softness of the fog.

The biting cold pierced through layers of clothing, seeping into every pore. The frigid air sent icy chills down my spine, but as a photographer, I had learned to embrace discomfort for the sake of art. The numbing cold only fuelled my determination to capture the essence of this ethereal beauty.

Framing each shot required a careful dance between patience and timing. The fog would momentarily reveal the entire bridge, and then just as swiftly, it would swallow it whole, as if guarding its secrets from the world. I adapted my shooting style, adjusting exposure and focus to navigate the delicate balance between the bridge’s solidity and the intangibility of the fog.

Though the fog’s persistence guaranteed an otherworldly quality to the images, it also presented its challenges. The limited visibility meant that every photograph required meticulous attention to detail. I focused on capturing the emotions and intangible qualities of the scene, transcending the mere representation of a structure. It was about unearthing the hidden emotions that swirled within the fog, the sense of awe and insignificance that this encounter instilled.

As the hours passed and I continued my photographic exploration, the fog fluctuated and danced around the bridge. It never demanded attention, instead, it magnified the bridge’s grandeur by disguising it until the perfect moment. This delicate interplay between the inanimate structure and the elusive fog created an indescribable harmony, one that I was determined to convey through my lens.

In the end, it was a labour of love. When the world around me was barely visible, the results exceeded my expectations. The photographs emanated a raw, ethereal beauty that effortlessly conveyed the majesty of the Golden Gate Bridge wrapped in thick, low-lying fog. Every detail, every gentle curve of the structure, became a brushstroke in a surreal masterpiece.

The encounter with the Golden Gate Bridge, cocooned within the embrace of the fog, has left an indelible mark on me as a photographer. It reminded me of the ever-changing wonders of nature and its ability to transform the familiar into extraordinary. Sometimes, the most extraordinary moments lie waiting in the shroud of the unseen, beckoning us to explore the depths of our senses and capture their elusive beauty.

I are always in awe of the natural beauty that surrounds us. Located on the south coast of England, Langstone Harbour is a hidden gem that offers an abundance of remarkable photographic opportunities for both amateur enthusiasts and seasoned professionals alike.

Situated at the eastern end of Portsmouth Harbour, Langstone Harbour is a haven for wildlife. On the right day, when the elements align, the photographic potential of this stunning location is truly unparalleled.

One of the most captivating aspects of Langstone Harbour is its ever-changing landscape. From gentle tides to crashing waves, the interplay between the water and surrounding land creates a dynamic and constantly evolving scene. Photographers can capture the ethereal beauty of the harbour at both high and low tide, each offering its own unique charm.

Additionally, Langstone Harbour boasts an impressive backdrop of picturesque villages and historic landmarks. The quaint cottages and fishing boats that line the harbourside offer a charming and timeless aesthetic, perfect for capturing unique shots that encapsulate the essence of coastal living.

Of course, the key to seizing the photographic opportunities at Langstone Harbour lies in selecting the right day. A day with clear skies and soft light can transform a simple landscape into a breathtaking vista. The gentle hues of sunrise and sunset cast a magical glow over the harbour, creating an atmosphere of serenity and tranquility that is simply mesmerizing.

I encourage you to embrace Langstone Harbour as an extraordinary muse. Be prepared to seize those golden moments when the light caresses the landscape, when wildlife presents itself in all its glory, and when the beauty of the harbour takes your breath away. With patience, dedication, and an eye for detail, you too can capture the remarkable photographic opportunities that await you at Langstone Harbour in Hampshire.