The man behind the camera

Biography

My Story - stay a while and be inspired!

Ray has travelled to all parts of the UK, and locations much further afield, including the rain forest in Borneo! Ray has worked on a number of different projects globally, for example photographing Orangutans in the rain forest, bears in the frozen forests of Finland.

Ray`s photography concentrates on the natural world and is motivated by a desire to capture its beauty in camera. Rays` favourite photographs are often those which record a 'decisive moment' and show wild creatures in the context of their natural habitat, sometimes with an element of minimalist.


Since starting photography, Ray has built up an amazing portfolio of images covering many subjects, other images can be seen on both Rays` social networking Facebook, X (formally Twitter) pages, with video available on YouTube.


Ray has achieved a number of successes in major "UK" and International wildlife competitions and International salons. Examples of his work have been published in the National press, Wildlife Photography magazines and in the "RPS" Journal, one image graced the “RPS” membership card one year.


Ray holds a Royal Photographic Society Licentiate distinction, “The Distinction ‘Licentiate of The Royal Photographic Society” is the first level of the RPS’s  Distinctions. Licentiate members of The RPS are entitled to use the letters LRPS after their name. The standard is high, but achievable, furthermore, from the Photographic Alliance of Great Britain, “CPAGB is held. From Adobe, an “Adobe Certified Associate”, last but not least is the title of Hon CPE from Campina Photographic Exhibitions Society.


My weapon of choice currently is the Canon R1 paired with a number of different lens from Canon from the 15mm F2.8 fisheye up to the 600mm F4.


Ray has been finalist in the  Bird Photographer of the Year (BPOTY),  three times, furthermore, his work has been used by the Rutland Osprey project and the BBC.



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f-stop backpacks - Why you need to consider your shoulders and back!




As a Wildlife photographer, I often spend large periods of time with a camera backpack. Often times, backpacks can be overkill, we may simply need to carry only one body and lens. Other times we need to try pack everything bar the kitchen sink.


Their bags are designed with precision and built to last. Crafted from top-notch materials, their products withstand the rigors of the outdoors, ensuring your equipment remains safe and sound.


However what doesn’t change is the fact that you are carrying weight on your back. The straps seemed to hug my shoulders and around my arms instead of cutting into them. The hip belt offered very good support when strapped around my waist. What really hooked me though, was the ICU (Internal Camera Unit) system. Essentially, you can buy one backpack and use different size ICU’s to cater for the type of shoot you are going on. A smaller ICU is all you might need for a trip to the beach for sunrise where as the larger Pro ICU is ideal if you are planning a multi-day trip and want to carry that extra bit of gear. No need for different backpacks. You do need to match certain ICU’s with certain packs but this is all on the website.


For outdoor photographers it will be the Mountain Series in which there is a choice of 5 backpacks ranging in volume from the 32 litre Lotus all the way up to the massive 80 litre Shinn. At the time of writing, 3 of those backpacks have been upgraded to the new Dura Diamond version… the Ajna (37L), Shinn and of course the Tilopa.

 

Probably the only camera bag you will ever need.


f-stop website

Protection. Performance. Precision.


Welcome to LensCoat® 


Your gear deserves more than stock protection. 

 

At LensCoat®, they craft custom-fit lens protector and rugged field gear that help photographers take their tools further—into the wild, into the weather, and into the action—without worry. Whether you're tracking wildlife in dense brush, photographing coastlines under unpredictable skies, or traveling with delicate optics, our products keep your equipment covered, cushioned,




Canon Covers.


Benefits of Canon Lens Covers 

The LensCoat line of Canon lens covers offers more than simply surface-level protection. These covers are made with careful materials and precise tailoring to keep your equipment safe and your presence unobtrusive. 

  • Neoprene padding creates a thermal barrier and protects your hands from any discomfort in hot or cold weather. 
  • The hood segment is designed to slide over the barrel, ensuring flexibility and ease of application. Plus, a small hole on the final segment lines up perfectly with the red dot indicator, so you can quickly align your lens with your Canon mount even while the cover is on—an overlooked but essential feature. 
  • Textured grip zones make it easier to hold the lens when things become tough in the field. 
  • Lens covers help reduce lens contact noise, which is helpful for wildlife and video setups. 

These Canon camera covers are also compatible with LensCoat’s TravelCoat and Hoodie accessories for full-barrel and front-element protection, making them a complete protective system for your gear.


Long Lens Bags Xpandable Series.

Premium Protection for Your Investment 

When it comes to safeguarding your gear, the Xpandable Series delivers best-in-class durability and shock absorption. Each lens backpack features: 

  • Dense closed-cell foam padding that shields from bumps, impacts, and drops   
  • A durable water-resistant outer shell to guard against rain, dust, and moisture   
  • Adjustable compression straps and a zipper for secure closure   
  • Reinforced base padding for added bottom protection during transport   
  • An optional backpack harness system and a removable shoulder strap for carrying comfort   

If you’re looking for a waterproof lens case that doesn’t compromise on versatility or accessibility, these camera lens bags deliver on all fronts. 




Tripod / Monopod Protection.


Benefits of LensCoat Tripod Monopod Protection 

These aren’t just accessories—they’re essential upgrades for anyone working with tripods and monopods in demanding conditions: 

  • All items are made from soft, closed-cell neoprene, offering a comfortable grip, water resistance, and thermal insulation to protect both your gear and your hands in extreme temperatures. 
  • Each product is tailored for a snug, secure fit to specific tripod and monopod models, ensuring performance without shifting or slipping. 
  • Available in a range of patterns, including Realtree Max4, Snow Camo, and Digital Camo for stealth in nature or solid black for a clean, studio-ready look. 
  • LegWrap Pro also incorporates a shoulder pad that is easily attached to the sewn-in Velcro for carrying with the legs open, perfect for photographers on the move. 
  • Constructed from heavy-duty water-resistant Cordura, dense foam, and finished with a 3D mesh inner surface made from soft, moisture-wicking polyester for long-lasting comfort and durability. 
  • Most products are made with Velcro® closures for quick, secure assembly and easy adjustments in the field.