Wildlife Photography in the New Forest! Tips, Birds, Ponies and Cameras!

[@willnotbetracked8222]

Hi Matt. Wildlife photography is all about perspective - we have all been down and disappointed with results, probably more often than not! The fact is that you have everything on your side - equipment, fitness and skill. Those of us who may have just two of those things, equipment and skill but sadly not the fitness have to struggle daily to just get to the location, never mind the ability to get low to the ground with any hope of getting back up again!😳 But, do we give up trying? Nah, we can't and neither will you because something always comes along like your tree creeper to refresh you. Don't beat yourself up, use what you've got and keep rewarding us with your amusing, intelligent and yes inspiring videos that makes me want to drag my 64 year old bones out of my armchair and into the wonderful world of wildlife. Thanks mate 😀👍

[@MattGouldphotography]

Aw thank you so much for your lovely message Will! I'm so glad you are still finding the motivation to get out and about :). And you are right, i will never stop taking photos! Thank you for your message and for watching!

[@phillcourt4105]

I don't know if it's the mild and rainy winter we've had but it's been brilliant around a few spots in West Sussex for Tree Creepers, nice to see something doing well for a change. Had a couple poking around on a few different sites I've been checking out recently, interestingly they have been quite bold too and a couple of times have landed about 2 meters from me.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Phil! Sup! That's interesting, I never found any good spots in west sussex for them. I won't ask where on here of course ;). Hope you're doing well, and I expect to see the photos in the group :D.

[@breeze8929]

We all have these photography ruts and they do suck. What i found helpful to get out of mine was doing something totally different and out of my comfort zone. So i booked a scuba diving day with grey seals at the Farne Islands in the north east of England. Rented some under water housing for my dslr and because it was totally new to me even the shots i got that wouldn't be considered great under water shots i found to be amazing and that got me out of my rut and opened up a whole new world of photography for me. It was like discovering my passion all over again. Hope this helps Matt and as always thanks for the great video! Take care.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Good Day Andrew! Having answered a few comments now, it's reassuring to realise we all seem to have experienced a rut or two :D. Wow, grey seals sounds amazing! Thanks for the tips, that has got the brain waves working i have to say, but its a touch out of reach finacially... at the moment anyway :D. Thanks for watching!

[@MikSwePhoto]

I can relate to the feeling you describe when being in a rut. At some point I even considered to get rid of all my gear and just stop taking photos in all. Just to be free from all the hassle of finding something to photograph and in our case also making a vlog about it. But I have learned that it isn't a competition, it is all about getting outside and enjoy nature and get connected to the wildlife within it. Once the pressure is off, the pressure one puts on one self, then it will be easier to get those photos. I try to remind my self that my life or my income doesn't rely on making those photos and vlogs it is just for fun and relaxation 😊 Keep up the good work 👍

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hiya Mik! Thanks for stopping by! Yeah it's definitely worth reminding ourselves that its the wildlife and the experience that matters. The photos or vlogs are just a bonus! Thanks for watching!

[@fenraven]

When you said "Hello," to your grandparents, you sounded exactly like Watson saying hello to the dog, Uncus, in the film, Young Sherlock Holmes. :) I only recently discovered your channel, and I'm enjoying it.

[@davidmurphy5485]

I'm new to this channel as I wouldn't normally be interested in wildlife photography, especially small birds..... However you sir have changed that. A bit like yourself over the past few months even before the "Lockdown" I have lost my mojo and have not taken anything that I've been happy with ( it doesn't take much to make me happy) !! I love your style of video and find it very inspirational in a real-world and natural way. Keep the chin up and I can't wait to follow you on your adventures !!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi David! Firstly thank you so much for taking the time to write this kind message. I am so glad to hear it has had that effect on you David. I have actually co-founded a wildlife photography competition called the Isolation Wildlife Photography Awards 2020. It's free to enter and meant to give people an aim with their photography during lockdown. Thank you so much for the message of support, I will be releasing some episodes on my experiences during lockdown shortly.

[@Distinctly.Average]

I think we have all had periods in the doldrums. For me the best tip is to go somewhere you know well, somewhere you know you can get a shot. It doesn’t matter what the species is, something common is just the ticket. What I do is try and do something different with the subject. It could be low shutter speed fun, backlighting, anything really but at a location that makes it easy to experiment. It usually means you come away with a shot or two to make you smile, as well as ideas for the future. Here in Hertfordshire we have spits that I regularly go to that always hit the mark. One wood for instance where it is almost impossible to come away without a decent shot of a tree creeper or nuthatch as they are everywhere and used to people. Or a stretch of the canal full of mandarins and little grebes. We have owls you can get really close to this time of year, adders nearby and plenty of deer to fill your memory card with. With macro season rapidly approaching that always gets the shots filling the hard drive. Best of luck and hope you get what you are after soon.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Good Day Phill! Yeah a lot of people have suggested a local patch as a means of breaking free of the rut! And doing something different with a common animal is 100% my philosophy! Hertfordshire is a lovely place, i have an uncle that lives that way, its got some great spots. Cheers for dropping by, and thanks for your words of encouragement!

[@johnlewis5663]

That's wildlife photography often seems like a lot of effort for little reward. My daughter and I have visited the forest of dean for a week each year for the past 5 years trying to photograph the wild boar, yet to see one let alone get a shot, very frustrating but it's great to be out in the countryside.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Boar! Tell me about it! Signs of them everywhere, everybody seems to get photos but yet when you or I try, they are like the ninjas of the forest and nowhere to be seen :D. I'm sure you will get there in the end though, and when you do, it will be far more rewarding... thats what i keep telling myself anyway :D

[@pukster88]

Few things Matt: 1. We become our biggest critics. It improves us but can make you feel frustrated. 2. Sometimes we feel travelling far and wide means we will get results. It's worth finding a local quiet site. Going regularly to get a feel of the wildlife and habits. Setting up shop and waiting. 3. Span out and try other mediums of nature photography. It will mean your wildlife calander will fill up and give you more opportunities e.g macro, extreme macro. Keeps things dynamic. 4. Finally, nothing wrong with paid hides. Though the disadvantage is getting a similar shot to everyone else. But sometimes that's all it takes to recharge that spirit. Of course, you already know all of the above. But a reminder always helps ;) If you come London way I'm happy to show you a few spots. Regards PS the horrendous weather over the past few months hasn't helped !!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Good Day Qasim! Thanks for the reminders, you are totally right on each point of course. It's just hard to see outside of the walls when you are in the box yourself. I think I have a few upcoming things that should provide some lovely results though. Thank you for your lovely supportive message! I may take you up on that offer if I head that way :D. And that is an awesome profile picture! :D

[@karenbusby9906]

Brilliant! So happy for you that you got the tree creeper after all!!! :)

[@MattGouldphotography]

Cheers.... MUM! :D hahahah.

[@LuciaHewitt]

Hey Matt, to me your photo's are always killer shots! Great open and honest video!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Lucia! Thank thats lovely of you to say! Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@adamsmith6594]

Brilliant vlog Matt. Really was. Good to see an expert run into the same issues as many, me included. Matt when i watched you say "particularly as I am attempting to make a career out of this" can I say you already are. I couldn't put a pin between you and the likes of Steve Backshall. Your presenting style and ease are totally there and your photography is excellent to my ammature eye. And that's all that counts really. All those that grew up with Attenborough only focused on the information and the animal. No one was tutting at the f stop or composition. But I'd prefer or rather wish for you, as a viewer, that you pick what you are 😀. Are you a wildlife expert - inspiring and imparting information about photography and really showing people for years to come how to get those shots and engaging with the public by bringing the wild to them so a generation can yearn for it. Or are you .... without mentioning another wildlife presenter who has been less than inspiring lately - a wildlife activist. Filming stuff and telling people how bad they are and how they are ruining everything. I think the generation that enjoys what you have to share the most is mine. We have time to take it in, buuuuut we've been round the block a bit. Being told off is our lives now apparently. By people that dont know better simply because they dont have as many reference points. Matt by all means delete this it's really only for you so I hope you do. But I can tell you from being round a bit that activism is shouty and temporary. Informative and engaging about the subject matter on it's own has longetivity and a dignified quality that more importantly has credibility. You dont have to change your views. But let them be ... your views. But it's your path and you gotta walk it. Anyway ... when you want to ensure you get to meet a French person in a couple of hours you either go to France or? Wander around the whole of England? Or go to a pinch point. Airport. Channel tunnel station. Same with animals. New Forrest .... wow lovely. But it's a big place and ... well. So look on satellite maps. Look for small Woodlands with old footpaths connecting them. Tunnel of trees type footpaths. If it has a stream all the better. You will massively increase your chances of deer, foxes, badger and many other things. They all use these corridors (pinch points). But they'll choose them over huge field. Keep an eye on the hedges for deer cross ways. Muddy gouged tracks coming over hedge banks etc. I'm sure you know all this but meh lol. I really hope for you that you get where you want to get. If that's Wildlife expert like your channel here .... it would certainly fit like a glove with what I've been watching all my life.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Good Day Adam! Firstly thank you for your open and honest comment, it won't be deleted as you speculated, I only delete abusive messages. This is far from that. I see your point about activism. It can be everywhere and shouting at someone is never the way to get your point across. Which is why, in large, i try to keep my channel purely entertainment based. However, I have such a passion for the wildlife and ecosystems I have built a life around that i feel a responsability to protect it. And I feel a responsability to show where i stand on matters such as this to my viewers such as yourself. This isn't to be confused with pushing my opinions on you, just letting you all know where I stand. Having spoken to Megan about her plans I felt much more comfortable having my name associated with this organisation because its going to be, in general, far less abrasive. Hopefully it will also provide a way for people in a similar position as myself to help the wildlife they care so much about :). Thanks for the suggestions on how to get out of a rut. I was aware of some of these points as you say, but there is certainly no harm in reminders :D. I have a few things going on at the moment that i am very hopeful for. Thanks again for watching and taking the time to comment :).

[@theadventuresofzoomandbettie]

That lens is so huge to carry around! I always complain about the weight of my gear, which is tiny in comparison lol. Thanks for the video! Great share!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hiya! Yeah, my back does not thank me :'D. Glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@messylaura]

you need periods like that so the rewards are worth so much more when they come.i usually have a plan b, small stuff.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Completely agree, glad to have put that one behind me but I am sure there will be another at some point in the future :D. Thanks for watching :)

[@jasonfraser3572]

Yes I think it happens to us all. Take a 2 week break from it all. Fresh go helps.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Jason, good call indeed! But thats not an option for me at the moment, having to work to get more content out. But I have a few ideas now though. Thank you for your input, and for watching.

[@JimmiePedersen]

I know exactly how you feel :) All we have to bargain with is time.... Keep shooting Matt.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Jimmie! It's been nice reading the comments and seeing so many like yours and realising we have all experienced a rut of some kind. Thanks for watching!

[@carmelbechler]

Great video! I think in every thing in life you sometimes have ups and down, but you should keep going and you'll get the results even if it takes time

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Carmel, glad you liked the video and I completely agree! :D

[@sandycripps5933]

You’re an awesome photographer Matt, understand the rut, wasted weekends looking out at the rain, no mojo because I got downhearted with endless walking, nothing to show except aches and pains lol. I’ve been advised not to put so much pressure on myself to get that perfect shot...it will be there when you least expect it. Lovely to see you smile at the end with your tree creepers, fantastic shots....they’re little blighters to capture 😂 excellent vlog, great to see you out and about, you are an inspiration, looking forward to more 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Sandy! Hope you're well! And thank you for the words of encouragement! Getting the Treecreepers at the end really did boost things I have to say! More videos are definitely on the way :). Thanks for watching!

[@markconway5156]

Hi Matt, always love your posts. I know your heartache only to well im in a dry spell at present probably nearly 4 months due to illness and when being out just not feeling on point. Ironically from lymes disease trying to photograph buzzards (8 hours in a field no buzzards and all i got was lymes disease) so yeah its difficult and frustrating. So tbh ive had a couple of zoo visits this week and although its not what its about obviously it was quite nice to get some decent shots i liked to basically pull me out of the rut and spark the creativity. Maybe thats a help but i hope you get your mojo back.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Daaaang! Now thats a bad day's wildlife photography! I have to be honest, I rate zoo photography as means of practise and just a change of pace, so don't blame you at all. Cheers for the suggestion! I may give that a go :)

[@MattGouldphotography]

Also, i hope you get well soon! :)

[@markconway5156]

@@MattGouldphotography cheers mate, yeah im an ex zoo keeper so always good to touch base and sharpen skills but you cant beat being out in amongst the wilds.

[@SuperFucdat]

Regarding your drought of not getting a shot your satisfied with for five months I’d say sometimes the harder you look for something the less chance you have of finding it. I haven’t nailed one in months but do know with perseverance it will one day come. Keep it going & I loved the Treecreeper shots, I agree they are wonderful little birds. Mark🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@MattGouldphotography]

That definitely seems to be the case Mark! It's when you aren't looking for something that it pops up right in front of you. Thanks for the words of ecouragement! And I hope you get your shot! Cheers for watching!

[@SuperFucdat]

@@MattGouldphotography Absolutely. But when that something pops out you have to just make sure your ready, but if your not & you miss the shot don’t let it get to you, easier said than done, but try & laugh it off. Remember, your supposed to be enjoying it.

[@Loawks]

Nice vid mate 👌☺️ One month later. How you doing now? I know exactly where you are. Comes all the time. what do I do”?.... I guess I switch from ‘camping to hiking when I feel like it. I used to only hike about dressed in Camo. Got good shots doing this. But I did get fed up of not seeing much. So, now I’ve invested in a Lenscoat Lenshide” and also some deer hunter 3D Camo. Found some locations that I can bait up with nuts and seed. Then I go there get all incognito and sit for hours. I get good shots doing this. But I also get F’all on some days too..... I love it though

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi James! Thank you for the comment, I am doing great, I released a follow up video to this in which I talk about how I got over the down period. Thanks for the kind comment and advice though :)

[@willhudsonfilmmaking3463]

You Sir, Honestly your videos feel so rewarding! Your tempting me out of aviation to pursue and help wildlife! But.... i feel i need to combat it within the industry! Inspiring me back out to discover photography again! We shall catch up anyway next month! Will message group chat soon, to organize! Need to have a long chat you and me! KEEP INSPIRING KEEP POSITIVE I will join the Wildlife Rebellion

[@MattGouldphotography]

Ha, Cheers bud! Why not find a way to combine the passions somehow... not that I could think how :D. Yeah, really looking forward to it mate! Thank you for the kind words bud :D. And awesome! Every person is vital!

[@jamesfindlay7150]

Matt whats the 500mm lens? just my curiosity

[@MattGouldphotography]

500mm F4 IS L I have a still pretty up to date video on my channel about the gear i use :)

[@jamesfindlay7150]

Matt Gould thanks matt

[@JPLamoureuxsTravels]

Nice one bud, just on my way back from there, had Roe, fallow, red deer loads of birds and my bogey bird the Dartford Warbler 😍... did a couple of videos and got a few in the pipeline for my channel, one of me having a meltdown over seeing the dartford warbler lol 😂 Great vlog loved it! And I feel your pain, if you fancy a trip out to rekindle your passion to do some tracking and wildlife photography give me a shout we can crack it no probs 😎😉🤙

[@MattGouldphotography]

Niiiiiice! Getting the bogey bird is always a great feeling! Congratulations! :) Cheers man, I will bare the offer in mind :). I have some projects in the pipeline that are generating positivity though in the meantime. Thanks for watching and for commenting :).

[@JPLamoureuxsTravels]

Matt Gould keep up the great vlogs buddy it’s the trials and tribulations if the wildlife photographer 🤣🤣🤣

[@tobiasyoder]

I totally ship it

[@MattGouldphotography]

Ha, sorry I don't understand what you mean?

[@tobiasyoder]

@@MattGouldphotography dont worry about it haha

[@cbra736]

Hey, I just discovered your great videos :)! What is your favorite equipment (cam, lens)? Thanks for sharing!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Claudia! I have a whole video on the gear I use. But to save time I use the 5Div and my most versatile lens is probably the 100-400mm :) Thanks for your comment!

[@thunder7382]

at 6,30 a.m. would be better ..

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hiya, better for what? Do you mean to get up earlier? Fair shout if so

[@SophieKing94]

You might have reahced a down point but the fact is you don't give up. Got to keep plodding along in this strange world; but at the end of the day you have a talent and you're making the best of it. You've come so far already (:

[@MattGouldphotography]

Gooooood Day Sophie! It is indeed and endless plod! Until the occasional break like a wedding or something of course... ;) Awww thanks for the kind words though Soph! Thank you for watching!

[@prasan182]

Hi matt which app did you use to find the birds species using its call sound.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hiya apparently its "All Birds UK" it's a sunbird app according to Megan :). Hope that helps!

[@samh1432]

Hey Matt, really glad you made the video! It's difficult being honest about our low points sometimes, I've had many up and down moments this Winter! I'm going to New Forest this week funnily enough, only for a day though going to set up my hide and sit in rain for Red Deer 😊... great video as always mate, keep up good work!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Cheers for the comment Sam, and yeah I think its worth being honest. It doesnt do any good for other people having the same issue and seeing everyone around them seemingly finding it easy. And good luck with your red deer! Hope you get a nice rainy shot :)

[@samh1432]

@@MattGouldphotography Yeah it's almost this false persona social media can have when some people don't share their down moments.. and Cheers Matt, like you, it's just a way I can get out the house be in nature for the day. Also sent you an IG message, but you probably get so many msg these days, anyway just to say if you're at Photography show on Saturday 14th would be awesome to meet, even if brief!

[@jeffwilliams5355]

When I get in a rut, or just stuck, I do something else. So, you're having no luck with wildlife? Go do some macro stuff. Or some landscape stuff. Or go somewhere you've never been. Don't sit and mope and focus on problems. Do something different but constructive.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Thankfully I got out of that particular rut, but thanks for the advice, I have since found the trying something completely different to be a great way of giving the mind a break :). Thanks for watching Jeff!

[@fototyz]

Hi Matt, we all go through these bad times, but things will change, they always do! If you get really stuck as I did a while ago setup a feeder in your garden... place some interesting sticks twigs or even as in my case a nice big Bonsai close by and you’ll be amazed of the cool shots you can create.... at least it gets those creative juices flowing again....... keep up the good work, I look forward to your vlogs! 👍😊👍

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Paul! Thanks for the words of encouragement! I may well set up a cheeky little bird table in the garden. Though, my garden isn't currently suited to photography unfortunately. Though I have done that in the past and i agree, it can be brilliant! Thanks for the kind words and for watching!

[@davidcannon1148]

It’s just a down time Matt we all get it mate . If you want to do some thing awesome save your cash and get your self down to the Falkland Islands it’s a bird photographers paradise. I lived down there a long time ago. There is a guy called Andy pollard he is a young guy like you total fanatic photographer has some amazing shots on the web, problem is you won’t want to come back. But remember there winter is our summer time.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Good Day David! The Falkland Islands are definitely high on my list, 100%. I will bare that in mind, but cash is something in very short supply at the moment :D. Thanks for stopping by and watching!

[@thisisme1999]

I would bet all photographers of any type go through these funks. The only way to deal with it is to give up photography, sell off all your gear and take up spending your free time in the pub talking about what you use to do. Or you just suck it up and keep shooting, the only way through it is through it. I did quite like your first image of the pony, so you do not suck at all.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Firstly "funks" is definitely a term i will be adopting moving forward... seriously, love that word :D. Hmmm, the beer involved in the first option does make in tempting though... But I will of course be going with option two :D. And thank you that's really appreciated! :) Thanks for your comment and for stopping by to watch!

[@whereami7814]

Hi Matt. Well done. Another fab video. Think a few of us have found it hard this winter, the weather hasn't helped at all. Hopefully spring will be good. Wayne aka the blind photographer

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Wayne! Yeah, its conflicting as it's nice to hear i am not the only one, but also i don't like to think of others struggling and it being linked to the wilflide perhaps being in trouble. But yes, the spring is around the corner. And i have seen your message and will reply shortly. It all kicks off comments and messages wise just after the video release :D.

[@whereami7814]

Cool, no worries no rush. Look forward to hearing from you soon

[@Fifteenacrefarm]

I love watching your videos. I'm also happy with your honesty. So many times we only see the good side of people when they make videos, its refreshing to see that we are all human and things dont always go as we plan them. I'm glad you didnt give up and held out to see the little Tree Creeper. Funny when you think of it, such a small creature brought you to a better place. Keep up the good work and God Bless you! :)

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Amy! Thank you that's lovely of you to say! I'm glad you enjoyed the video, thank you for stopping by and watching!

[@petershaw8096]

Hi Matt, I liked your excitement on the Treecreeper, I hadn`t seen one for years, certainly not to photograph.Then 15 months ago we moved to Wickham in Hants and have the old Meon valley railway line on my doorstep. I have since seen numerous Treecreepers and have managed some cracking shots along with plenty of other wildlife. Keep up the enjoyable blogs.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Peter! Glad you enjoyed it! I was mega chuffed I have to say! And i'm originally from Hampshire! Lovely county. Thanks for the kind words and for watching!

[@rupeshviswanadhan1234]

Hi Matt, Hope you are safe there at your home. You will make an excellent career of photography. Dont you worry.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Thanks for the support Rupesh, much appreciated :)

[@jameslove1092]

Hey matt. Meg looks like Chris packhams niece. Was it. Keep clicking. James in Scotland.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Ha, yeah, step Daughter but it was yes :). And thank you for watching, glad you enjoyed :)

[@Adele.N]

Matt the music you choose is seriously brilliant!! and love everything else you do too! Thank you!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Thank you so much, many hours are spent searching for music :D. Thank you so much for the kind words!

[@wendybee9160]

Have you thought about shooting old house, abstract, macro or real estate?

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Wendy. No I haven't really, with the exception of Macro. Though I have some exciting stuff coming up with that ;) Watch this space :D

[@lawrencesmith9214]

Morning Matt, how ironic that just popped into my YT, I’ve just pulled into Ham Wall after watching you go there, not sure I’ll stay for the Starlings though!!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Lawrence! That is definitely good timing! I hope the early start was well rewarded!

[@vanessaprice-adams5001]

Hi Matt, enjoyed the vlog. What ID app were you using?

[@MattGouldphotography]

Good day Vanessa! Sadly, it wasn't my app, but i will ask Megan and get back to you, or she may see this and beat me to the answer :)

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hiya, update from Megan, Apparently its "All Birds UK" it's a sunbird app :). Hope that helps

[@ZaberAnsaryOfficial]

Merlin by Cornell Lab is oretty sweet too. Free

[@vanessaprice-adams5001]

@@MattGouldphotography Thanks for that Matt & Megan

[@mcfugle]

Really know what you mean Matt about therapy ive not been able to get out and photograph due to injury and surgeries so this afternoon went out camera in hand for therapy few keepers and just being out helps

[@MattGouldphotography]

Oh no, hope the surgeries went as planned. And i'm glad you understand what I mean in regards to therapy. There is something that is hard to put into words when it comes to just getting out and about with your camera. Good luck with the recovery, and thanks for stopping by!

[@mcfugle]

@@MattGouldphotography yeah Matt on the way back now. My nemesis is kingfisher never had any luck capturing them but just keep going out keep up the great videos very inspiring

[@manuelkaferbock8372]

What lense do you use ? 500 or 600 , version one or two.

[@MattGouldphotography]

500mm F4 IS mark 1 I have a full video on my gear on my channel :)

[@burstongreye7090]

That shot walking into the timelapse frame 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Burston! Thank you for the compliments! Really appreciate it!

[@SimonWattsWILDPresentationsUK]

Yes, there is therapy in the effort, the chill and fine rain. Won't ever come in from days like those not happy and better adjusted to life. Fab upload, Megan is up our way shortly - will hopefully be able to lend support. Si.

[@MattGouldphotography]

So glad you agree Simon! Chuffed you are looking to lend your support! Thanks for watching!

[@AndyGustavsson]

Lovely video Matt, the treecreepers are so fun to watch, spiral up the trees!😊 Love you b roll footage, and the slowmo is killer! For being in a rut with photography or life in general, it sure helps me to go to places I used to visit when I was young, could be a local woodland or a place by the riverbank where I used to fish when I was younger, no need to take any pictures but just have a wander and remember good old things and then most times something often present itself to give you some enlightenment. Been struggling to find some wildlife for myself lately so yesterday I decided to head to my favorite spot to photograph roedeer during summer, managed to see 15 roedeer and had the most amazing encounter with a redfox! Now I'm not feeling too bad haha.. 😊🙏

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Andy Yeah the treecreepers are brilliant little birds! Hmmm thats an interesting suggestion, to go back to palces we used to know very well, cheers for the thought. Woah! 15 Roe is substantial! Well played! Glad you are in a good place with photography! Thanks for watching!

[@garrywilkins9141]

keep up the good work Matt

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Garry, thank you, will do! :)

[@MrSpaceman1111]

you are only starting out so much ahead never give up only onwards for you ..great video remember you help so many others with there dream to be like you..from an old man..

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hiya, glad you enjoyed the video! I will keep going of course! The passion will never fade :). Thank you so much for your kind words and for dropping by :).

[@eerofi]

When motivation is dead and nothing else helps, there is always the cure-all of BUYING NEW GEAR! 😉😛

[@dust1415]

Hi Matt I was feel the same had for less two months then Mother nature had a lovely surprise one lovely little Grebe sat still in Calm water so I was able to get What I think the best photos of this bird Ive taken and Yes New Forest is great But feel very swampy at mo too wonder around looking wildlife fingers crossed will dry up soon

[@MattGouldphotography]

Good Day! Thats brilliant to hear! I am actually in the process of filming a grebe video, they are beautiful birds! I will definitely be back to the new forest soon :). Thanks for your comment!

[@colinjones7635]

We know how you feel Matt,we have all been there.It is as you say the ups and downs of nature photography,keep at it and one day soon you will have an amazing photographic day,When i am feeling uninspired i go to the local river or visit the local Peregrines with no camera haha.And soon see things and get inspired to go back with the camera haha.Good luck mate,spring is on its way..

[@MattGouldphotography]

Cheers Colin! I will indeed keep at it! If wildlife photography has taught me one thing, it's patience :D. Thanks for watching!

[@cerealkiller4248]

Matt, What do you want to photograph ??? Are you chasing the rare/unusual or do you just like taking a good photograph of any species. I'm the latter, and sometimes the local park is the answer. You're well placed now, and an hour in any direction will place you in an inspiring wood/reserve etc, you can end up chasing your tail with wildlife photography sometimes. Try some landscape stuff, you'll come across wildlife when you're least expecting it.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hiya! I'm very much in the good photo of anything camp :). But i may have had an upturn in luck recently for the reason you suggested :). Though i have never had much fulfilment with landscape. I will give it a go at some stage though. Thanks for watching :)

[@mdkphotography2370]

Good evening Matt, Ive been in the same boat. Ive been trying to get some shots of foxes in the field next to our house since may last year. Last week i managed it. It took me 2 years to get a shot of a short eared owl. Yet last summer i managed loads of barn owl, kingfisher shots. Sometimes things just all come along at once. I do feel your pain and frustration. Keep up the good work

[@MattGouldphotography]

Good Day! Congratulations on your fox shots! Barn owls sound amazing, i'm yet to have a prolonged experience with one. Got some spots linned up though :D. Cheers for the words of encouragement and for stopping by!

[@wolfybro2944]

Hey Matt, I know how you feel, I went to a wildlife park like a Safari and I felt much better, you should try it :)

[@MattGouldphotography]

Sup wolfy bro! Yeah, a few have suggested captive photography as a means of breaking out of the rut! Thanks for the suggestion! :) And cheers for watching!

[@laurielphotography1118]

Lovely captures, Matt, even if they weren't exactly what you were hoping for on your trip. A wise old woman once told me to always remember these 5 words, so I'll pass them on to you... "and this too shall pass". Hang in there! Looking forward to your next video!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Ahhhh yes, time is always on the move you're right :). Thank you for the kind words, onwards and upwards :)

[@tonymorrison6875]

Loved the video Matt, really encapsulated wildlife photography... short fleeting moments without much to show for it. Keep your head up mate, when you finally get that shot it'll be so much sweeter. As for getting over the lull... go on a trip, 100 % cure. Come to the US or Canada especially in the summers we have enough wildlife to go around. Best Tony

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hiya Tony! Chuffed you enjoyed the video! I would love to visit the US and Canada for photography! Many bucket list shots out there for sure! Just financially limited at the moment. But thanks for the kind words and for watching :)

[@catherinewilliamson6675]

Hey Matt, loved the video I know how you feel. But some of the best opportunities I think come when you least expect it, so don't lose faith. Let me tell you a story.. I was off sick from work one day and whilst I was in the bathroom I noticed out of the corner of my eye a family of foxes playing in the garden. 3 of the foxes were lazing around while the other had found a tennis ball and was playing with it. I watched this family for quite some time before I realised I should try and get some shots. So I opened the window and sat on the ledge with my camera. Now the photos weren't great but they are some of my favourites as you don't normally see a fox playing with a tennis ball! Two of my pics are on my Instagram, (under the name of c.nature.photography) the fox with the ball and the one laying on their back. So to cut a long story short if I had not been sick I would not have got to see them and it made me smile for the rest of the day. Hope you get the shots you are after soon.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Catherine! Glad you liked the video! Ha, I wasn't expecting to see the shot that close up :D. That's brilliant! Thanks for watching and for the lovely story!

[@ashleymain5674]

Hey Matt, this video was really a rollercoaster! Your photography is outstanding, but I don't think enough I said about your video making and story telling! Being new to photgraphy you really inspire me to get out there everytime you upload a video and it's great to see the real ups and downs of what it's really like.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Ashley! Thank you so much for your kind words. And super chuffed for the story telling praise! I've a lot to learn but living with a pro cameraman (Ben Harris) means I get some super tuition (his channel is featured on my home page by the way). So glad you feel inspired! Thank you for stopping by to watch and comment!

[@craigmaisfield3247]

Hi Matt. I was exactly the same last year. I got fed up of carrying heavy gear around with me and getting nothing.. I have started also doing landscape and I'm really enjoying it.. please feel free to check me out on Instagram. Thanks.

[@MattGouldphotography]

Yeah, my back is fed up for sure :D. I never really felt the same pull with landscape though, glad you found an alternative that works for you though! Thanks for stopping by and your comment :)

[@christopherwood1668]

The world is messed up 😂 every time I’m ready to give up with wildlife photography, nature provides and refills the energy. Perseverance is key, you’ll get rewarded eventually, you just have to keep going. Thanks for this video, showing the real ups and downs is so important. Great work Matt, keep it up!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Christopher! The world is indeed messed up :D. Thanks for the words of encouragement! I agree that honesty is needed, in the digital world especially! Thanks for watching! :)

[@emilpoulsennatur]

Ugh that landscape was so beautiful by your grandparents😍😍😍 gotta get a way from that corona virus😆😇

[@MattGouldphotography]

Sup fella! Yeah it's a beautiful part of the world! Sadly it's not as remote as it seems! The virus is unavoidable :D. Hope you're well, thanks for stopping by!

[@emilpoulsennatur]

Matt Gould ive Got the damn Thing but i Think i survived it haha 😆 can’t wait for the next video Matt🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@MattGouldphotography]

@@emilpoulsennatur Oh no! Glad you're on the mend mate!

[@ellaslinn]

I understand the feeling Matt. I hope you've gotten out of this rut; don't give up, it's worth pushing through!

[@MattGouldphotography]

Hi Ella! I think I may well be soon, time will tell. It may be revealled in the next video... Thanks for the words of encourgement!

[@burstongreye7090]

Another brilliant video sir 🙌🏽

[@findus605]

The joy of wildlife photography, the only way is up, keep at it. The weather this year has had a terrible knock on effect on my own photography so you are not alone in your photographic frustrations.

[@trembichmovingmoments8778]

Hi Matt, Glad you got rewarded there at the end. 🙂 As for tips of how to get out of a rut: shoot something easy. I was in a comparable mindset with yours for the last weeks and what I did when I had time to go out yesterday was instead of heading to my local forest and search for Buzzards, Deer or black woodpeckers (all of whom I've seen there before) and then get home disappointed when I either haven't found them or even worse having seen them but missed the shot, I decided to go to a place where I knew that I would be able to get really easy and really good shots of White Storks. It really helps to get the spirits up again when you get something you're happy with. As for the Wildlife Rebellion: any chance I can participate from here in Germany? Cheers 🙂

[@MattGouldphotography]

Much appreciated! Yeah, I popped down to my local park during golden hour with my housemates the other night and found myself really enjoying pigeon and swan photography. I'm sure a couple will make it to instagram eventually :D. As for wildlife rebellion, i have shown Megan your comment and she will be responding soon no doubt :). Otherwise, I imagine you could just submit the form when the website is live towards the end of this month. :)