There is something prehistoric about the way a basset moves. Perhaps it’s the low slung body and enormous paws like crocodiles feet. Having seen crocodiles in Australia I know I’d rather have a basset hound coming towards me across sand. Switching off auto on your camera and going manual is like taking the stabilisers off your bike when you’ve only just learnt to ride. Although I’ve flown solo with my camera for a while the one part that I’ve never really cracked is the using the... New ferns unfurling are so architecturally beautiful I can’t resist snapping them at every possible opportunity. This one looks much like the caterpillars I fear are invading my cabbages. But I won’t hold that against it. It’s been damp but warm – a little like being out in a jungle. The cicadas singing added a raw quality to our basset walk today. Things are lush in the bush but not perfect. I love the way that things are thriving and dying. Renewing and growing. ... The first thing I was taught to cook at school was Shortbread. I remember how mine made a wonderful frizzbee when it was finished it was so hard but beautifully shaped. That experience has always made me slightly reluctant to repeat the experience. I tend to... 