Not exactly an Attenborough-level expedition, but here are a few recent snaps from the wilds of Beckenham. All with K-5 IIs and DA 300mm f4...


1 - Female wood duck, native of North America and - at present, for reasons science is powerless to explain - north-west Kent



2 - Black-headed gull, native of almost everywhere



3 - Egyptian goose acts as though it has been shot, so could probably get a place in the Chelsea squad



4 - The seasons they are a-changin'



5 - "You lookin' at me?"



6 - I'm rubbish at identifying juvenile gulls, so any clues gratefully received



7 - Canada not dry

No signs of rustiness here, Alan - some great shots with lots of obvious happiness thrown in.

Until it was pointed out, I didn't notice the closed eyes in the first picture - I was more greatly concerned by the missing apostrophe!

Roomy shoulder bag (with waterproof cover) usually retails for about £195. Park Cameras currently has 'limited stock' for £110, should anyone be in need.

I'm a sucker for animal portraits and an ursine lawnmower works for me.

A really nice set of five, Barrie, for which many thanks.

Oops. Just had a closer look and can now see my schoolboy error.

That doesn't dilute my admiration for the shot.

That's terrific, Barrie - an object lesson in turning the everyday into the eye-catching. Fantastic sharpness, interesting reflections and perfect exposure. Not sure whether I'd have attempted to lose the rod on the left, but either way this is very effective - monochrome that really pops.

Amazon has the K-S1 on its 'lightning deal' menu, starting at 10am tomorrow. Prices won't be announced until the deal begins, but they are usually ultra-competitive.

Two days ago, via the same system, I picked up some Pentax binoculars that had been reduced from £130 to £49.99... and used a spare £20 Amazon voucher to sweeten the deal still further.

Agree with Steve about the gorgeous colours. Love the reflection and the distant, shadowy shapes, but I think it might look better with the boat shifted slightly to the left and that bit of pier removed. Purely a persona; view, of course.

I much prefer the original tones, Barrie - and would also keep the lighthouse. I feel it adds a little balance.

I think the lighting works really well, Barrie. Your subject has a lovely, contented expression and the colours are great. I also like the indistinct but discernible background.

I've been told that Whitby is a good place to conquer any awkwardness one might feel about photographing strangers. A friend of mine finds the best approach is to have a few beers, then wander around London shooting portraits of all and sundry. It works for him, but I'm sure there are better methods...